2017 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Photos, engines & full specs

Mercedes-AMG continued its work on the facelifted version of the GLE's third generation, which, starting with 2015, wore the GLS nameplate.

While for the U.S. market, it wasn't considered such a behemoth on wheels when compared with the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator, it was quite big in Europe. Moreover, the GLS was the most luxurious SUV on the Old Continent's market, and the carmaker listened to its customers who asked for more power. And the power came from Mercedes' specialist AMG, which also became a separate sub-brand named Mercedes-AMG.

On the facelifted version, the front fascia received a bold black grille adorned with chromed slats. Moreover, the carmaker installed new headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. In addition, the lower part of the bumper got the A-shaped grille flanked on the sides by massive air scoops. Furthermore, the SUV revealed its standard 21" light-alloy wheels from its profile. Finally, the carmaker added new full LED taillights at the back as a standard feature.

Inside, the high-bolstered front seats provided multiple electrical adjustments, heating, and ventilation. In addition, Mercedes-AMG made extensive use of man-made leather for the entire cabin, including the second and third rows of seats. At the front, the dashboard received a newly designed instrument panel, and, atop the center stack, the carmaker installed an 8" infotainment system.

Underneath the hood, Mercedes-AMG kept the same 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 powerplant that provided enough oomph to rocket the behemoth from naught to 62 mph (0-100 kph) in less than five seconds. In addition, the rear-wheel drive biased traction system was tuned for a sportier feeling. Moreover, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS (seven-speed) automatic gearbox was tuned for performance.