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2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63 Revealed: New Flat-Plane V8 Brings Supercar Technology to Luxury SUVs

2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63

2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63 Revealed: V8 Power Lives On With Supercar Technology

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Mercedes AMG Gives the GLE 63 and GLS 63 a Serious Update

At a time when many performance SUVs are moving towards full electrification, Mercedes AMG has taken a different route. The updated GLE 63 and GLS 63 continue to use a massive 4 litre twin turbocharged V8, but the engine now comes with technology normally reserved for track focused supercars.

These are not all new models. Instead, they are heavily updated versions of the current GLE, which first arrived in 2018, and the GLS, which has been on sale since 2019. Even so, the changes are significant enough to make both SUVs feel fresh again.

2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63
2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63

Exterior Design Gets More Aggressive

The front design has become much bolder than before.

The new AMG grille is larger and now features a silver surround that makes it stand out even more. At night, the illuminated grille creates an unmistakable road presence.

Mercedes has also redesigned the headlights with much larger star shaped lighting elements. While the design certainly grabs attention, opinions are likely to be divided.

The GLS follows a similar approach, although its star graphics are arranged vertically instead of horizontally.

Other exterior changes include:

  • New front bumper detailing
  • Updated alloy wheel designs
  • Up to 22 inch wheels on the GLE
  • Up to 23 inch wheels on the GLS
  • Revised LED tail lights with additional star graphics
  • Quad exhaust finishers remain part of the design

From the side profile, however, very little has changed. Mercedes continues to offer the GLE in both standard SUV and Coupe body styles.

The Biggest Change Is Hidden Under the Bonnet

The real story lies beneath the sheet metal.

Mercedes AMG has updated its famous 4 litre twin turbocharged V8 with several mechanical improvements.

These include:

Engine UpdatesDetails
New Intake SystemImproved airflow
Revised Exhaust SystemBetter efficiency
Updated CamshaftsEnhanced performance
Upgraded TurbochargersImproved response
Flat-Plane CrankshaftFaster revving characteristics

The introduction of a flat plane crankshaft is one of the biggest talking points.

What Is a Flat Plane Crankshaft?

Most traditional V8 engines use a cross plane crankshaft, which is known for producing the deep rumbling V8 sound enthusiasts love.

A flat plane crankshaft uses a different layout that allows the engine to rev more quickly while reducing internal inertia.

This design is commonly found in high performance sports cars and supercars, including Ferrari V8 models and the AMG GT Black Series.

Using this technology in a large luxury SUV is an unusual decision, but there is solid engineering behind it.

Why Mercedes AMG Made This Change

The switch is not about increasing peak horsepower.

Instead, the flatter crankshaft improves exhaust gas flow between the cylinders and turbochargers. In a twin turbocharged engine, smoother exhaust pulses help the turbos generate boost more efficiently.

The lighter rotating assembly also allows the engine to respond more quickly and improve overall efficiency, helping reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.

It is a clever engineering solution that balances performance with tightening emissions regulations.

Power and Performance

Despite the extensive engine revisions, official output figures remain unchanged.

SpecificationGLE 63GLS 63
Power612 hp612 hp
Torque850 Nm850 Nm
Mild Hybrid SystemYesYes
Electric Motor Output22 hp22 hp
Additional Torque Boost205 Nm205 Nm

The mild hybrid system continues to assist during acceleration while improving efficiency during normal driving.

Performance figures

PerformanceGLE 63GLS 63
0 to 60 mph3.9 seconds4.2 seconds
Top Speed174 mph174 mph

Although the acceleration numbers stay the same, the revised engine should deliver a noticeably different driving experience thanks to its faster revving nature and unique exhaust note.

Interior Gets the Latest Mercedes Technology

Inside, both SUVs receive the latest cabin updates already seen in the standard GLE and GLS.

The dashboard now features a wraparound digital display layout that integrates the driver display and central infotainment screen into one flowing design.

A dedicated passenger display is also available, reflecting the growing trend among luxury manufacturers.

AMG specific changes include:

  • Exclusive performance graphics
  • Customisable driving displays
  • AMG performance menus
  • Sports seats with enhanced side support
  • New leather upholstery choices
  • AMG steering wheel with rotary drive mode controls

The steering wheel allows drivers to quickly change driving modes, adjust the adaptive air suspension and control the exhaust settings without taking their hands off the wheel.

AMG Character Remains Intact

Mercedes has retained the adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes that buyers expect from its flagship SUVs.

Drivers can switch between comfort focused cruising and a much sharper setup designed for enthusiastic driving.

The signature quad exhaust layout also remains, giving both SUVs the muscular appearance expected from an AMG product.

Expected Price

Mercedes has not officially announced pricing yet, but the updated models are expected to cost slightly more than their predecessors.

Estimated starting prices are:

ModelExpected Price
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63Over £140,000
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63Over £160,000

Final Verdict

The updated Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63 prove that the V8 performance SUV is far from dead.

Rather than chasing higher horsepower figures, AMG has focused on improving engine character through genuine engineering changes. The addition of a flat plane crankshaft, revised turbocharging system and updated internals should make these SUVs feel more responsive while delivering a completely different soundtrack.

The styling updates may divide opinion, especially with the heavy use of illuminated star graphics, but un

derneath the bold design sits one of the most interesting V8 developments in recent years.

For enthusiasts who still believe nothing replaces a twin turbo V8, these new AMG SUVs could be among the last great examples of their kind.

Sources and References

Official Sources

Trusted Automotive Publications

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 completely new?
No. The 2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 is not an all new model. It is a heavily updated version of the current generation with revised styling, upgraded technology, and significant engine improvements that make it feel much fresher than before.
What engine powers the 2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63?
Both SUVs continue to use a 4 litre twin turbocharged V8 engine paired with a mild hybrid system. The powertrain has been updated with new turbochargers, revised camshafts, an improved intake system, and a flat plane crankshaft for quicker engine response.
How much power does the new AMG V8 produce?
The updated engine produces 612 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque. An integrated mild hybrid system adds a temporary boost of 22 horsepower and up to 205 Nm of extra torque during acceleration.
What is a flat plane crankshaft and why is it important?
A flat plane crankshaft is designed to reduce rotating mass and improve engine responsiveness. It allows the V8 to rev faster and improves exhaust gas flow to the turbochargers, resulting in better throttle response and improved efficiency compared to a traditional cross plane V8.
How fast are the 2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63?
The AMG GLE 63 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.9 seconds, while the larger AMG GLS 63 completes the sprint in around 4.2 seconds. Both models have an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph.
What exterior changes have been made to the updated models?
The refreshed SUVs receive a larger AMG grille, redesigned headlights with star shaped lighting elements, revised front bumpers, updated wheel designs, refreshed LED tail lights, and subtle styling changes that give both models a more aggressive appearance.
What new features are available inside the cabin?
The interior features a wraparound digital display, optional passenger screen, AMG performance graphics, new upholstery options, sport seats, and an AMG steering wheel with rotary controls that allow quick access to driving modes and suspension settings.
Will the AMG GLE 63 still be available as a Coupe?
Yes. Mercedes AMG is expected to continue offering both the traditional SUV and the Coupe body style for the GLE 63, giving buyers the choice between practicality and a sportier design.
Why did Mercedes AMG update the V8 instead of increasing horsepower?
The focus was on improving engine character, throttle response, efficiency, and emissions rather than increasing peak output. The revised engineering helps the V8 feel more responsive while maintaining its impressive performance figures.
What is the expected price of the 2026 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63?
Official pricing has not been announced, but the AMG GLE 63 is expected to start above £140,000, while the AMG GLS 63 is expected to start above £160,000 depending on market and options.

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