The Perfect Storm? Getting to Grips with AMG’s Mad 600-HP GLS 63
Outstanding Dynamics Don’t Compromise Comfort
Packing AMG Ride Control+ pneumatic self levelling air suspension with a special spring and damper set-up and Adaptive Damping Plus, GLS 63 really does deliver outstanding driving dynamics without really compromising comfort. We recently enjoyed the pleasure of driving ‘baby bro’ GLS 580 a considerable distance, and while that car impressed us in its dynamics and comfort, big brother here takes it to another level.
As I’d done in the 580, I played the garbage boss again and took a second-row ride. Alas to Burger King rather than the strip club! Still, the combined effects of that and the three inches more legroom afforded by the new GLS’ wheelbase stretch, made quite the difference. Those AMG suspension tricks virtually eliminate roll and sway to actually make that 580 feel wallowy and jerky. Especially from the second row.
That’s just first impressions. But does it deliver from behind the wheel? Man, it does! And then some…
9-speed Auto Also Comes Under that AMG Spell
Like that powerful Northwester, GLS 63 is blasted along by its AMG handcrafted 603 hp 627 lb ft 4-litre biturbo V8 aided and abetted by a 20 hp 180 lb integrated EQ Boost starter-alternator. It packs four-cylinder deactivation to help save fuel, when it purrs like lion. Turning all four wheels through its AMG fiddled 4Matic AWD, its feisty 9-speed automatic also comes under that AMG spell.
A monster in every way, this seven-seater SUV doesn’t just blast to 60 mph in as good as four seconds flat, but it can also run at 175 mph with our specimen’s optional AMG Driver’s package. All while wrapping you in the absolute lap of supreme luxury. You’d better believe it. That’s what this 600 horse Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic is all about.
It may have taken that second-row ride to emphasize some of it, but this 63 makes huge strides in ride and handling. Active Engine Mounts bring a soft setting for cruising and stiffer one for more dynamic performance. Active Roll Stabilization makes it more dynamic. And an agile continuous ride height control keeps it on an even keel, no matter what the load.
Slithers of Rubber on Gothic Alloys
The GLS 63 has six driving modes including everything from Comfort to Sport Plus and even Trail and Sand. The latter are redundant. Would you take those slithers of rubber and giant Gothic alloys to the rocks? Me neither! GLS 63 also packs a raft of extensive driver assistance gadgets, of which latest spec route-based LiveTraffic Distronic and speed-adjustable Active Distance Assist are actually a hoot to use.
Quite literally monstrous in its acceleration, that lion’s purr becomes a roar of imposing death when teased. Spine chilling. Acceleration is mesmerizing as it stuffs you back in the seat. Can it possibly weigh five and a half tons?
The 9-speed gearbox is ruthless as it savages into the right gear for whatever situation. But always super smooth, whether slipping along in the sunshine traffic jam or attacking the pass in our storm.