The RS Q8, Audi's first-ever high-performance SUV had only a few hours under the spotlight, as the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 is here to steal its thunder. Even so, the battle between the three German kings (BMW X5 M included) is bound to be fiercely contested.
Before we go over the numbers, let's take a second to appreciate the beauty of this thing. Sure, it's an SUV, and it will never hold a candle to the SLS Black Series, but the GLE 63 is way better looking than non-AMG versions of the vehicle.
The stand-out feature has to be the front bumper, with a lower fascia that resembles an open shark mouth. This is due to the double-frame around the sides. The Panamericana grille pushes a new type of Mercedes badge forwards while connecting to other AMG icons.
With streamlined taillights and a quad exhaust system, the GLE 63 somehow resembles the GT 63 4-door while also reminding us of the ML 55 that started this AMG-SUV journey.
As for the interior, it doesn't feel particularly sporty, though almost none of the AMGs do. Instead, you have a new steering wheel and minor carbon trim added to what's probably the most luxurious SUV cabin. The infotainment could be the edge the GLE 63 needed over the X5 M and RS Q8.
So what about the engine? Well, this is everything we expected and nothing extra. Like the GLE 580, we have a 4-liter V8 matched to the latest 48-volt EQ Boost starter alternator. Despite this adding 22 hp, total output is the same as for the E63 sedan/wagon. To be precise, we have a base GLE 63 with 563-hp in America or 571 HP in Europe. Most people are going to want the slightly more powerful but also expensive GLE 63 S with 603-hp/ 612 HP plus a healthy dose of torque 850 Nm (627 lb-ft).
Acceleration from 0 to 62mph(100km/h) takes 4.0 or 3.8 seconds, respectively. These numbers are within a tenth of the BMW X5 M/M Competition. Somehow, the RS Q8, which only has one set up, also does the sprint in 3.8 seconds.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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