GL63 AMG and GLS63 (X166, X167) 2014 - present (Two generations)

would you chose GLS550 or GL63?

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Old Oct 12, 2017 | 09:54 AM
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2013 GL450
would you chose GLS550 or GL63?

background: New GLS63 was pretty amazing on a test drive. So was the new GLS550. I have never driven a GL63 (2013-2016). I own a 13' GL450

I really like having our GL and would like to upgrade soon. Thing is, the leases on GLSs (aside from the 450s) are so unattractive that purchasing becomes more appealing.

So, if I'm going to buy a year old GLS550, it makes sense to cross shop a 2-4 year old GL63.

Simple question: Which car has the better suspension? The GLS550 w/the new adaptive dampening is firm but luxurious and you can add the active curve if you like (although no one does). It was impressive. However, I find that the halo cars - the AMGs and BMW M cars actually use higher spec suspension items to achieve the best of both worlds. IMHO an X5M while stiffer than a X5 5.0 sport, actually rides better - more solid, slightly more velvety as it sucks up imperfections (Also the Ms don't have runflat tires....). I noticed this firm, solid yet satisfying ride quality in the E63, and slightly on the GLS63 test drive (as you can imagine, the exhaust note dominated the experience).

So which car has the more successful suspension? The GL63 or the GLS550 with the new dynamic select ADS?

Thanks for any feedback.
DRP

Last edited by BigJob13; Oct 12, 2017 at 09:58 AM.
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Old Oct 19, 2017 | 01:45 AM
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We picked 550 over 63. We didn’t see the cost benefit of spending more to go 63 and both felt just as quick. Will be adding downpipes and tune to the 550 over the next few weeks.

As for active curve, it was the only was we would pick one and it’s standard on all 63. Suspension wise didn’t notice anything. But selecting from Sport to Comf makes a big diff esp running 22s. Have a few sections of road we switch to Comf for but otherwise ride on sport.
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Old Oct 19, 2017 | 02:17 AM
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Does the 63 use an mct?

i would want a TC on my GLS over an MCT
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Old Oct 20, 2017 | 07:35 AM
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Originally Posted by BigJob13
background: New GLS63 was pretty amazing on a test drive. So was the new GLS550. I have never driven a GL63 (2013-2016). I own a 13' GL450

I really like having our GL and would like to upgrade soon. Thing is, the leases on GLSs (aside from the 450s) are so unattractive that purchasing becomes more appealing.

So, if I'm going to buy a year old GLS550, it makes sense to cross shop a 2-4 year old GL63.

Simple question: Which car has the better suspension? The GLS550 w/the new adaptive dampening is firm but luxurious and you can add the active curve if you like (although no one does). It was impressive. However, I find that the halo cars - the AMGs and BMW M cars actually use higher spec suspension items to achieve the best of both worlds. IMHO an X5M while stiffer than a X5 5.0 sport, actually rides better - more solid, slightly more velvety as it sucks up imperfections (Also the Ms don't have runflat tires....). I noticed this firm, solid yet satisfying ride quality in the E63, and slightly on the GLS63 test drive (as you can imagine, the exhaust note dominated the experience).

So which car has the more successful suspension? The GL63 or the GLS550 with the new dynamic select ADS?

Thanks for any feedback.
DRP
Referencing the ride, I have both an E63s and GL63. Even in Sport+ suspension setting, it is still reasonable. In the E63s, it can be punishing. Active Curve is a must have on the SUVs and changes the dynamic. When I purchased my leftover '16 GL63 earlier this year, they gave me a '17 GLS550 to drive for the day. I noticed a big difference between the two, and wouldn't trade the 63 for anything. Of all my AMG's (past and present), it might be my favorite - mainly because it shouldn't be as awesome as it is. I expect the E63s to be awesome.
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Old Jan 25, 2018 | 05:46 PM
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2022 AMG SL 63. 2021 APR stage 1 Audi SQ7.
lowered?

Originally Posted by black06c230

We picked 550 over 63. We didn’t see the cost benefit of spending more to go 63 and both felt just as quick. Will be adding downpipes and tune to the 550 over the next few weeks.

As for active curve, it was the only was we would pick one and it’s standard on all 63. Suspension wise didn’t notice anything. But selecting from Sport to Comf makes a big diff esp running 22s. Have a few sections of road we switch to Comf for but otherwise ride on sport.
Is yours lowered? Getting the Renntech module for mine.
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Old Aug 31, 2018 | 10:48 PM
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Which way did you go on this?
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Old Sep 3, 2018 | 05:40 PM
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mgLipGD
Originally Posted by traumadoc

Is yours lowered? Getting the Renntech module for mine.
Just to reply, yes lowered on links.
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