Mercedes-AMG’s Big SUVs Just Got The V8 Fans Wanted

Key Points

• Mercedes AMG V8 Promise Article
• AMG recommits to V8 engines amid backlash against electrification, starting with SUVs.
• New flat-plane crank V8 delivers 627 hp, accelerating 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds.

AMG’s V8 Promise

More recently, headlines involving Mercedes AMG have largely circled around its EV efforts. Obviously, there’s the premiere of the GT 4-Door, but there’s also the mass production of its first-ever axial flux motors that’s bound to be applied to more models. But let’s not forget that the company promised that there will be more V8s on the way.

About a month ago, the company said that it would double down on internal combustion engines, including V8s. That’s following the backlash of its downsizing and electrification efforts, and thanks largely to the U.S market. Now, AMG is making good on that promise by putting its new V8s in two models.

Hotter SUVs

AMG had previously said that its new V8s will be applied to SUVs first, before the rest of the range gets them. That time has come, as the performance versions of the GLE and GLS get the flat-plane crank twin-turbo unit. Granted, the facelifted S-Class was the first model to use the redesigned 4.0-liter V8, but this is a first for AMG.

Of course, you want to know how much this engine makes, and the numbers are 604 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The mild-hybrid system with its new-generation integrated starter generator then produces 23 hp and 151 lb-ft. With the systems working together, that should give it great off-the-line acceleration. For the GLE 63 S, it does the 0 to 60 sprint in 3.6 seconds, while the larger and heavier GLS 63 does the same task in a still-impressive time of 3.9 seconds. Both SUVs have a governed top speed of 174 mph. Say what you want about these performance SUVs, but you can’t deny the firepower under the hood.

Other Highlights

Like the standard models, these Mercedes AMG versions of the GLE/GLE Coupe and GLS get the new look. Differentiating it from its regular versions are the distinct grilles that each come with a unique light signature. As for the rear, the immediate tell are the twin exhaust pipes that can only be seen in these AMG models. New wheels are also part of the changes for the 2027 model year.

Both the Mercedes GLE 63 S and Mercedes GLS 63 get a hose of chassis upgrades, all of which are bundled together in the AMG Ride Control + suspension. The adaptive suspension system is engineered for both dynamic driving, and surprisingly, off-roading. Its air suspension lets these SUVs sit 0.4 inches lower when placed in Sport or Sport+ mode, or get as much as 2.2-inches of extra ground clearance in Trail mode. In comfort mode, it automatically lowers these vehicles by 0.4 inches at speeds over 75 mph.

Active roll stabilization is standard in both, as well as a special AMG rear differential locker. The electronic rear diff works in both dynamic and off-road driving situations, ensuring optimal mechanical grip in as many scenarios as possible.

More to Come

Both the GLE 63 S and GLS 63 will arrive in U.S showrooms by fall 2026. Of course, it’s safe to say the flat-plane-crank V8 won’t be reserved for these SUVs. We can expect it in AMG’s lower-slung models, and we already know that the CLE is finally getting the engine it deserves. The CLE Mythos will also use the biturbo 4.0-liter V8 and has a baseline figure of 530 hp and 553 lb-ft. The bewinged CLE is touted to make its world premiere sometime this year.

The arrival of that engine also means we can expect a new S63 AMG. Spy shots of the car have already been captured, and it’s only a matter of time before its debut. As such, expect a meaner soundtrack from it. We’re also keeping our fingers crossed for the return of the E63, if ever that happens.

While it’s not official yet, the AMG GT 63 Coupe could benefit from the new V8. It still uses the cross-plane crank V8 and boasts an impressive output of 577 hp and 590 lb-ft. Should it get that flat-plane motor, we could see figures past 600 hp.