Mercedes-AMG GLS 63

Massive, mild-hybrid, mega-powerful monster Merc

- Scott Newman

Rating 3.5

ENGINE 3982cc V8, DOHC, 32v, twin-turbo

POWER 450kW @ 5750rpm

TORQUE 850Nm @ 2250-5000rpm0-100KM/H 4.2sec (claimed)

WEIGHT 2555kg

PRICE $255,700

LIKE: Astonishing engine; super practical; tech galore; massive presence

DISLIKE: Artifical driving experience; price premium; tough to justify

THERE ARE SOME CARS that are alarmingly fast. The McLaren 720S is one; for very different reasons, the Chevrolet Silverado is another. You can now add the Mercedes- AMG GLS 63 to that list, for this new mega SUV is absurd.

It provides Australia’s first exposure to AMG’s new mild-hybrid V8. It uses the now-familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbo unit that does service in everything from the C63 to the S63 but adds Merc’s EQ Boost, a 48-volt electrical system that can provide up to 16kW/250Nm in short bursts, while also helping with energy recuperation and restarting the engine in stop/start driving.

Like the similarly equipped 3.0-litre inline-six in AMG’s ’53’ models, this electrical assistance smooths out the power delivery and provides astonishing response. The GLS 63 weighs 2555kg but this seven-seat leviathan can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.2sec and on to an electronically limited top speed of 280km/h. As I said, it’s simply absurd.