Colin made a meme. 
A zero-to-60 time of 4.1 seconds may not be the most blistering acceleration time in the modern automotive world, but for a vehicle that weighs in at more than two tons, that's nothing to sneer at. Of course, the SUV in question isn't just any big vehicle, it's the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63.
Under the hood of the GLS 63 sits a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V8 capable of 603 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft. of torque. If that's not enough, however, the integrated EQ Boost system can add up to 21 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque to the equation. So, in the right conditions, the GLS 63 can deliver up to 624 horsepower and 811 lb.-ft. of torque—that's almost double the stock torque output of our F-250 project truck's V10 powerplant.
That kind of power comes with a starting price of $132,100. The rather loaded model we reviewed was optioned out to $153,035.
What’s it like to drive this 5600-pound luxury rocket ship? Keep reading to get the full review below.
Like what you're reading? We rely on your financial support. For as little as $3, you can support Grassroots Motorsports by becoming a Patron today.
If you have an itch for a big, honking SUV and also have the scratch, this is it. That’s it. That's the entire review. Hope you enjoyed my TED Talk.
It’s everything that makes an AMG so special: all the power, all the features. And then it’s big.
Could I drive this every day? Heck yeah. Can I afford to? Heck no. Does that give me the sads? Yeah, kinda.
More about that Mercedes-Benz’s EQ Boost. Let’s go to the media kit:
“For the first time, the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine found in the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is equipped with an integrated EQ Boost starter-generator. It unites a starter motor and an alternator in a single, powerful electric motor integrated between the engine and the transmission. This unit can provide up to an additional 21 hp of output and 184 lb-ft of torque, enabling particularly fast sprints from a standstill or sprints when overtaking. This innovative component not only supplies the 48-volt electrical system and is used as a power generator, it also performs hybrid functions. These include boost, recuperation, gliding and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function. For the first time, the EQ Boost starter-generator is also responsible for idle speed control. This allows fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology.
“Furthermore, this modern 48-volt electrical system allows for the use of new technologies. It reliably supplies the onboard electrical consumers (e.g. air conditioning and heating elements plus infotainment and assistance systems) with energy while ensuring full driving power.”
End result: It’s smooth–both the engine and AMG’s nine-speed Speedshift TCT transmission. No lag, no excuses. Okay, it’s pulling some weight here so this one doesn’t feel as quick as the AMG products, but it’s still enough. (Personally, if I was shopping, I’m still listing the AMG E63 S Wagon as my lottery buy; it’s still the gold standard.)
The rest of the package? Basically an S-Class version of a big SUV. All of the comforts, all of the conveniences. And all integrated so well.
Here’s a good example of that engineering magic. Our tester wore the optional 325/35ZR23 tires. Did you catch all of those numbers? We’re talking wide 23s. And here’s the big point: Ride was still comfortable, the steering didn’t pull and, in short, it all felt wonderful.
What about a big, premium SUV from some other brand? Unnecessary. This one has a feeling–a warmth–that can’t be duplicated. Call it the automotive equivalent of a turntable vs. iTunes. (Sure, I’m listening to iTunes now, but that’s because I don’t drive a six-figure SUV.)
But, you say, this vehicle doesn’t make any sense. Why does the world need a high-performance, full-size SUV from AMG? I’m not saying that we need these kinds of vehicles from everyone. In my world, this one is all we need.
Colin made a meme.
In reply to David S. Wallens :
I have to admit, it's not very often I get a message like this when I'm working:
The answer is yes, we do have time to make a meme.
325/35ZR23! That's a big tire (and wheel). The only option on Tire Rack is $462 per tire.
Crazy. But if you can afford the $150k SUV they came on, $462/tire should be nothing to worry about.
I do like that subtle dark green though.
I know on the wheel size. I had to take a photo. 
At the same time, ironically, I was selling some old 10-inch Mini wheels on eBay.
You guys get the weirdest press cars.
Also, sports cars now need to get to 60 in under 4.1 seconds to be considered fast?
This thing seats seven, is super luxe inside and is fast as hell. 600+ hp? 800+ tq? Growing up in a world of slow and tacky malaise-era family haulers, I would never have imagined that such a vehicle could exist.
I love the dicotomy coming out of today's vehicle manufacturing plants.
Green/electrified by 2035!!!! YES PLEASE!
Want to see how many turbochargers it takes to make this streamlined boat do 185 mph? GET'ER DONE!!!
The only tire in that size at tire rack:
P Zeros??? Who the hell wants to buy those garbage pieces of E36 M3?
nderwater said:This thing seats seven, is super luxe inside and is fast as hell. 600+ hp? 800+ tq? Growing up in a world of slow and tacky malaise-era family haulers, I would never have imagined that such a vehicle could exist.
I know, right? And it drove sooooooo nicely, even with the big tires. Be neat to talk to the engineers who make that all happen.
Displaying 1-10 of 21 commentsView all comments on the GRM forums
You'll need to log in to post.
