In the same season AMG launched an electric GT 4-Door and committed its sedans to batteries, its two biggest performance SUVs did the opposite. The updated 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe and GLS 63 have been revealed — and the V8 not only survives, it's been comprehensively reworked.
The V8 stays — and gets a flat-plane crank
The headline is the engine. The hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 (M177 EVO) keeps its 603 hp, but underneath the familiar number it's heavily re-engineered: a flat-plane crankshaft, new turbo hardware, a revised intake cam, and optimised fuel injection. The goal is to keep the V8 viable under tightening global emissions rules while sharpening throttle response — a notable move when most of the industry is downsizing or electrifying these engines out of existence.
A 48-volt assist, not a plug-in
Paired with the V8 is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator. It smooths stop/start, handles recuperation under braking, and can add up to 23 hp and 151 lb-ft of low-rev assist — filling in torque before the turbos are fully awake. This is electrification in service of the V8, not a replacement for it.
Two bodies, serious pace
- GLE 63 S Coupe — the sleeker, lower of the two; 0–60 mph in an estimated 3.6 seconds.
- GLS 63 — the full-size three-row flagship; 0–60 in ~3.9 seconds, which is absurd for something this large.
Both get AMG performance hardware including active roll stabilisation and full-time all-wheel drive.
Sharper looks, familiar luxury
Both SUVs wear revised styling: a new AMG-specific radiator grille, enlarged air intakes, and LED headlamps with an exclusive AMG light signature. Inside, it's the expected AMG-trimmed Mercedes cabin with the latest displays.
Why it matters
This is the counter-narrative to AMG's electric push: in its most profitable, most American-friendly segment, the brand is keeping the V8 and engineering it to last. For buyers who still want a twin-turbo eight under a big AMG SUV — and the noise that comes with it — the GLE 63 and GLS 63 just bought that formula several more years.
Both arrive at US dealerships in fall 2026 as 2027 models. Power and acceleration figures are as announced by Mercedes-AMG; final EPA numbers and US pricing are pending. We'll update at launch.