The new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ was introduced locally during 2020 and fills a niche gap in the market with very few direct competitors. The monstrous Mercedes-AMG measures 5 423mm in length, 1 782mm tall and 2 157mm wide in its natural configuration. This not only bolsters its road presence but also available space for its seven occupants and large V8 motor.
Related: Mercedes-AMG GLS vs Mercedes-Maybach GLS vs Range Rover L: which is the best value for money?
The GLS nomenclature first made its appearance on the previous and now used Mercedes-AMG GLS and replace the traditional naming convention where the model was named the GL. For this article, we will be looking at X166 and the latest X167 model range to highlight the most recent additions made by the German automaker.
1. Exterior
One of the first ways the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 sets itself apart from the previous or used model is in its exterior styling. While retaining the signature Mercedes-AMG design language and silhouette, the new model incorporates a much larger grille featuring verticle slats instead of the horizontal theme on the earlier model. The grille is flanked by a newly sculpted Multibeam LED headlamps.
While the new GLS still incorporate similarly styled air dams on its front bumper as found on the earlier model, at the rear the new model follows the new design language by incorporating slim taillamps instead of the larger rectangular design on the outgoing model. The second-generation GLS shines out with its chrome-plated trim piece that mitigates scratching the bumper while loading or unloading the boot.
Both models feature a similar lower bumper design with squarish dual-exhaust tips exiting in each corner. Both also come standard with 21-inch AMG design alloy wheels as standard equipment.
2. Interior
While both generations of the AMG GLS 63 offer plush leather interiors, there are distinct differences in the design approach. One of the first items the driver will notice is the new multi-function steering wheel which incorporates dedicated buttons for the exhaust and suspension settings and a dial to select between the driving modes ranging from Comfort to Sport and Sport+.
Behind the steering wheel is a digital Widescreen Cockpit instrument display which replaces the analogue units in the previous model. The glass panel extends to the centre where the infotainment system display is housed, this is in place of the stand-alone floating unit on the outgoing GLS. On the new GLS, customers can set up the AMG instrument cluster with specific content such as the "RACETIMER" and select from four display styles namely Modern Classic, Sport, Discreet or AMG-specific Supersport.
Both models, large in dimensions, offer loads of interior room and both are capable of accommodating seven occupants. With all thee rows available for occupants the second-generation GLS 63 provide for 453-litres of luggage space which expands to just under 1 399-litres with the third row, or seats 6 and 7, folded down. The latest iteration starts with 492-litres which expands to 1 379-litres with the last row folded flat.
3. Powertrain
While both the second-generation and third-generation Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ comes fitted with a Biturbocharged V8 motor, each delivers different power and torque figures, and as a result different performance. Let us compare.
| 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 | 2021Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 | |
| Engine | 5.5-litre, Biturbocharged V8 | 4.0-litre, Biturbocharged V8 |
| Transmission | Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic | AMG Speedshift TCT 9G-Tronic |
| Power | 430 kW | 466 kW |
| Torque | 760 Nm | 850 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.6s | 4.2s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h | 250 km/h (opt 280 km/h) |
| Fuel consumption | 12.3 L / 100 km | 13.0 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emission | 273 g/km | 296 g/km |
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