Mercedes-Benz is expanding its 7-seater GL-Class range of SUVs with the announcement of the high-performance GL63 AMG.
Based on the recently revealed 2013 GL Class, the new GL63 AMG dons the usual assortment of visual enhancements from the stylists at AMG. This includes a slightly more aggressive front bumper featuring enlarged air intakes, unique daytime running lights, chrome detailing and pumped up fenders. The GL63 AMG also features a set of 21-inch wheels shod with 295/40 sized tyres, ‘V8 Biturbo’ badging and illuminated door sills with an aluminum finish. At the rear is a quartet of exhaust tips finished in chrome.
The GL63 AMG is equipped with the same 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo engine found in other AMG models such as the ML63 AMG SUV and SL63 AMG roadster. The direct-injection unit is rated at 404 kW between 5 250 and 5 750 r/min, together with 760 Nm of torque between 2 000 and 5 000 r/min. Power is transferred to all four wheels by an AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. The GL63 AMG completes the 0 to 100km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. For what it’s worth, Mercedes-Benz claims an average fuel consumption figure of 12.3 L/100km with CO2 emissions of 288 g/km.
Complementing the new powertrain is an improved chassis with a standard ‘AMG Ride Control’ sports suspension with ‘Active Curve System’ roll stabilization, a speed-sensitive sports steering system and a high-performance braking system featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs in size 390 mm (front) and 345 mm (rear).
Inside, all seven seats in the high-performance SUV are covered in high-quality leather. Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats have been fitted with AMG badging, an AMG Performance four-spoke steering wheel is fitted and you get the AMG instrument cluster with central colour TFT monitor. Standard goodies include stainless steel pedals, AMG floor mats, a parking assistant, Mercedes’ COMAND interface with Bluetooth and USB connectivity and tri-zone automatic climate control. Some optional extras worthy of mentioning include a 360-degree camera monitoring system, lane keeping and blind spot assist systems, a panoramic glass roof and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
