Need a 557hp SUV, Anyone?

The new Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG is only scheduled to be launched into the market November this year but the company has already released an extensive list of pictures together with its specifications. It’s the final three letters that really draws notice, so underneath the bonnet of this tough-looking machine is an AMG-built 5.5 litre biturbo V8 engine which produces a monstrous 557hp (from 5250rpm) and a tarmac tearing 760Nm of torque (from 2000Nm). The century sprint is despatched in 4.9sec before reaching an electronically limited v-max of 250kmh. Yet, fuel comsumption is claimed to be just 12.3km per 100km at 288g CO2/km.  Contributing to this feat is direct injection, electromechanical steering, and its ECO start/stop system.

This permanent all-driven GL is connected to an AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic with three modes (C – Controlled Efficiency; S – Sport; and M – Manual) with automatic double-declutching during downshifts. The gearbox promotes efficiency via a fuel-economy converter with centrifugal pendulum and bearings designed for reduced friction loss. Additionally, the electromechanical steering, optimised belt drive and demand-responsive control of all ancillary units and pumps also helps to reduce fuel consumption.

In the interest of dynamic handling power is apportioned in 40:60 ration front to rear. The AMG Ride Control with Airmatic package is combined with the Active Curve System for active roll stabilitsation. This system, which comes as standard and is specific to AMG, employs active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles to reduce the body’s roll angle during cornering. The GL 63 AMG comes as standard with 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in format 10 x 21, painted titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 295/40 R 21. The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance with ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 millimetres (front) and 345 x 26 millimetres (rear).

All seven seats in the high-performance SUV are covered in high-quality leather, as is the centre armrest. Four round instruments on the AMG instrument cluster provide the driver with information. The central colour TFT monitor incorporates the AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu. Other standard equipment includes Active Parking Assist, Collision  Prevention Assist, electrically operated tailgate, intelligent lighting system, Crosswind Assist and Thermatic 3-zone auto climate control.

Additional (optional) items include red brake callipers, 21 inch AMG wheels, AMG sports seats, 360 degree camera, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist and Distronic Plus, among others.