The Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S 4Matic+ and Mercedes-AMG GLS63 4Matic+ have received mid-life updates, including an overhauled 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 powertrain and styling and equipment changes, with the revised flagship SUVs due in Australia in early 2027.
Both models will receive the latest ‘M177 Evo’ AMG V8 mild-hybrid powertrain, which Mercedes-Benz says has been “thoroughly updated” and is “future-proofed”.
The brand says it lays “the foundation for a new generation of V8 engines that will be both more powerful and efficient, while remaining legally compliant worldwide”.
The engine was first introduced in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan due here later this year, but the arrival of the V8-powered SUVs sees the new powertrain fitted to higher-volume models as they continue to take on rivals such as the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne.
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The updated AMG flagships follow revisions to the regular GLE and GLS ranges revealed earlier this year, including refreshed styling inside and out, as well as changes to the six-cylinder AMG GLE53 4Matic+ mild-hybrid and GLE53 Hybrid 4Matic+ models.
While confirmed for a local launch, full Australian details and pricing for the V8 models have yet to be announced. The current GLE63 S 4Matic+ is priced from $273,500 before on-road costs in the standard wagon body style (with the Coupe costing $2000 more) and the GLS63 4Matic+ priced at $307,000 before on-roads.
The new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produces the same 450kW and 850Nm as before, delivered at the same points in the rev range, while retaining mild-hybrid assistance.
The integrated starter-generator (ISG) now contributes 17kW, up from 16kW, while maintaining its 205Nm torque boost. Performance figures are unchanged, with the GLE capable of 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds and the larger GLS in 4.2 seconds. Both have a top speed of 280km/h.
The M177 Evo V8’s biggest change is its new flat-plane crankshaft, which reduces rotating mass to enable higher engine speeds and sharper throttle response. Combined with a new bi-modal AMG Performance exhaust system, it’s also expected to deliver an even more aggressive soundtrack.
Further changes include a new intake camshaft, revised turbocharger compressors and housings, and optimised direct fuel injection. Updated exhaust after-treatment and particulate filtration systems have also been fitted to help meet emissions regulations for the foreseeable future.
There’s also a rear locking differential to improve cornering, traction and stability, while AMG Active Ride Control combines air suspension, adaptive damping and active roll stabilisation.
The mechanical upgrades are joined by cosmetic changes to the GLE and GLS, whose current generations were introduced in 2018 and 2019 respectively.
Updates across the wider ranges include a front-end design inspired by the latest E-Class sedan and revised LED tail-light signatures featuring the three-pointed star motif.
For the AMG models, the front end gains an AMG-specific grille, a unique bumper with larger air intakes for improved engine and brake cooling, and AMG-specific LED lighting.
Buyers can choose from several AMG-exclusive alloy wheel designs measuring up to 22 inches on the GLE and 23 inches on the GLS, while twin exhaust outlets and a diffuser-style rear bumper distinguish the flagship variants from the rear.
Inside, the AMG models gain a standard panoramic glass roof and a redesigned dashboard incorporating the full-width ‘Superscreen’ setup. The displays are powered by Mercedes-Benz’s new MB.OS operating system.
Standard Nappa leather upholstery will be offered in a range of colour combinations, while the AMG Performance steering wheel will also be available in microfibre and carbon-fibre finishes.
Mercedes-Benz Australia has outperformed the overall market in 2026, recording a 3.4 per cent year-on-year sales increase despite the broader new-vehicle market declining by 2.3 per cent. Expectations are being buoyed by the arrival of new models, including the electric CLA.
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