2013 Mercedes GL63 AMG Revealed, Arrives Early Next Year

[omoderncultureo]

Montvale – Luxury and refinement, distinctive design, outstanding safety and classic Mercedes dynamics – the new GL63 AMG high-performance SUV combines the latest technology with an extensive array of standard equipment and perfect comfort for up to seven passengers. Exceptional refinement comes courtesy of the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine with a peak output of 550 hp and maximum torque of 560 lb-ft. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM delivers compelling dynamics and classic Mercedes handling.

The MY 2013 GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 and GL550 arrive in U.S. dealerships in September 2012. The MY2013 GL63 AMG is expected arrive at U.S. Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the first quarter of 2013.

Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "With the new GL63 AMG, our range of performance-oriented SUVs is now complete. Alongside the outstandingly versatile ML63 AMG and the recently launched G63 AMG (U.S. debut in August) and G65 AMG (n/a U.S.), the GL63 AMG sets clear accents in the fields of dynamics and style. The GL63 AMG combines the first-class comfort of the S-Class with the performance of an AMG sports sedan and is utterly unique in its segment."

The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine delivers the perfect prerequisites for a refined ride and performance that is typically AMG. One glance at the technical data delivers all the evidence you need. The peak output of 550 hp and maximum torque of 560 lb-ft delivers absolutely first-class performance. The GL63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9* seconds, while the top speed stands at 155 mph (electronically limited).

The AMG eight-cylinder with the acronym M157 is equipped with an innovative package of high-tech features that includes spray-guided gasoline direct injection, piezo injectors, bi-turbocharging, air-water intercooler, a fully aluminum crankcase, four-valve technology with variable camshafts and alternator management, plus the ECO stop/start system.

An overview of the key data:

Displacement: 5461 cm3
Bore x stroke: 98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio: 10.0 : 1
Power: 550 hp @ 5250-5750 rpm
Max. torque: 560 lb-ft @ 2000-5000 rpm
Engine weight (dry): 450 lbs
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.9 s**
Top speed: 155 mph*

Power delivery to all four permanently driven wheels is handled by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-Speed automatic transmission. Equipped with three modes and an automatic double declutching function for downshifting, the seven-speed automatic offers an impressive degree of versatility. The ECO stop/start function is active in the Controlled Efficiency mode (C) and switches off the eight-cylinder engine as soon as the vehicle comes to a standstill. "C" also comes with a milder throttle and transmission setup with early gearshift. Pulling away generally takes place in second gear. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster advises the driver that the ECO start/stop function is active.

In the Sport (S) and manual (M) modes, not only is the ECO stop/start function disabled, the engine/transmission combination also has more spontaneous reactions for a considerably more agile feel. In these modes, the brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection during upshift under full load delivers faster shift times and a thrilling acoustic effect.

Greater efficiency and performance

For greater efficiency, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-Speed automatic transmission is equipped with a highly efficient torque converter with centrifugal pendulum vibration absorber, friction-reduced bearings and transmission oil temperature management. Also contributing to reduced fuel consumption are friction-minimized axle drives, the electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, optimized belt drive and on-demand control of all auxiliary units and pumps.

Mercedes-AMG uses a standalone transfer box for the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive that enhances the dynamic characteristics by splitting the drive 40:60 between the front and rear axles. Furthermore, the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with AIRMATIC package, consisting of air suspension, special struts, automatic self-leveling function and Adaptive Damping System (ADS), is combined with the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM. This is standard equipment and has been specifically adapted by AMG. It incorporates active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles that reduce bodyshell roll angle under cornering for enhanced agility and driving pleasure. At the same time, the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM raises stability and thus safety, especially at high speeds.

Roll stabilization, springs and damping adapt automatically to the prevailing driving conditions and offer excellent ride characteristics, as well as exceptionally high stability. At the touch of a button, the GL63 AMG driver can choose between two suspension modes "Comfort" and "Sport". The full air suspension system is speed sensitive and lowers the bodyshell at higher speeds to minimize drag, while increasing stability.

The AMG-specific elastokinematics on the front axle and the stiffer rear axle stabilizer deliver even greater steering precision. The reinforced driveline ensures the best possible transmission of power to the wheels and hallmark Mercedes reliability. The 4ETS electronic traction control system optimizes grip under varying surface conditions.
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance brake system

The electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering is equipped with variable power assistance that adapts in accordance with the selected suspension mode. This system also helps to save fuel, as the power assistance only consumes energy when the driver is actually turning the steering wheel. The GL63 AMG runs as standard on machine polished, twin five-spoke 10 x 21 AMG alloy wheels sporting 295/40 R 21 tires. For the shortest possible braking distances and excellent fade resistance, there is the AMG high-performance brake system with ventilated and perforated discs at all four corners – 15.4 x 1.4 inches (front) and 13.6 x 1.0 inches (rear).

Masculine design with performance focus

Distinctive, masculine, unmistakable – these are the characteristics that define the design of the GL63 AMG. The styling fundamentals of the new GL – powerful dynamics and sporty elegance – have been further enhanced by Mercedes-AMG with specific elements that emphasize the stunning performance of this V8 top model. The hallmark, upright GL radiator grille with its central Mercedes star is augmented by high-gloss black louvers. The AMG styling includes the front valance, which features large air intakes for effective airflow to the cooling modules. On the lower air intake, shaped in true AMG fashion in the shape of a stylized "A", is a narrow gap beneath a fine black fin, through which air flows directly to the cooling modules – a perfect combination of design and technology. The chrome trim element beneath this creates visual breadth and blends perfectly with the surrounds for the LED daytime running lamps incorporated into the outer air intakes.

The AMG front valance transitions beautifully into the flared fenders. The large 21-inch AMG alloy wheels clad in wide 295 tires add almost one inch to either side of the vehicle. The side view is further enhanced by "V8 BITURBO" badges on the fenders and illuminated sills with an aluminum finish. The flared fenders at the rear connect into the AMG rear valance, which also sports a distinctive chrome trim strip, as well as a black diffuser-type panel. A visual and acoustic highlight is provided by the two chromed twin end pipes of the AMG sports exhaust system.

Exclusivity and dynamics dominate the interior

Enormous attention to detail, perfect ergonomics and a generous amount of space characterize the interior of the GL63 AMG, where the emphasis is on exclusivity and dynamics. All seven seats in the high-performance SUV are upholstered in premium leather. The electrically adjustable AMG sports seats feature double stitching in a contrasting color, as well as AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats. The dashboard, armrests and door trim are finished in MB-Tex with double stitching.

The AMG performance steering wheel features a four-spoke design and offers optimum vehicle control with perforated leather grips, a flattened bottom and aluminum shift paddles. Four instrument dials in the AMG instrument cluster provide the driver with all necessary information. Positioned in the center is a color TFT monitor, which incorporates an AMG logo and the AMG main menu.

Further standard equipment in the GL63 AMG includes:
• AMG running boards in stainless steel
• AMG floor mats
• AMG sports pedals in stainless steel with rubber studs
• Active Parking Assist
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM
• Bi-xenon headlamps
• COMAND System with Bluetooth® and USB interface
• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
• Easy-entry system for the rear seat on both sides
• Electrically operated tailgate
• Electric tilt/sliding glass roof
• Intelligent Light System (ILS)
• KEYLESS-GO
• Multi-contour seats with massage function for driver and front passenger
• Memory package (incl. electrically adjustable driver and front passenger seats, steering column and exterior mirrors with memory function, plus 4-way lumbar support for driver and front passenger)
• Crosswind stabilization
• 3-zone automatic climate control
• AMG performance steering wheel with DINAMICA microfiber grip
• Red brake calipers

Further special equipment (extract):
• 360° camera
• Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist
• Trailer hitch with electric release
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
• BAS PLUS brake assist
• DISTRONIC PLUS (including PRE-SAFE® Brake)
• Panorama sliding roof, panorama roof over all three seating rows

More Photos

[Phil Pugliese]

Inbefore...well..inbeforewhatever.

[Troike]

Inbefore...well..inbeforewhatever.

I've never been one to post this, but I believe it belongs here

[HideYoKids]

would rather have G63 or G65 AMG

[Beltfed]

Interesting, but boy is that going to be pricey.

[Lifelong Obsession]

Interesting...but make my AMG SUV a G-Class or the smaller ML. Heck, I'd even rather take an AMG R-Class over a GL. The GL just doesn't do much for me. Maybe it's all the soccer moms on their cell phones.

[TangoRed]

I love the GL for some reason, despite the fact they're almost always driven my moms and dads driving their families around.

[Ross1013]

My first post here...the previous GL hid its size very well. I'd imagine this is going to be an astounding car.

[1Point8TDan]

I love the GL for some reason, despite the fact they're almost always driven my moms and dads driving their families around.

Same here. Saw an BlueTec today and wanted it. The AMG version is silly in this car.

[IridiumB6]

I love the GL for some reason, despite the fact they're almost always driven my moms and dads driving their families around.

As opposed to?

[VR6 NRG]

buy it now for $110k cause in a year it will be worth $60k and you'll hate yourself because you now own a pointless vehicle that will have horrid resale value but make the 2nd owner very happy because you took the depreciation in the butt like a champ.

[GLI Dan]

buy it now for $110k cause in a year it will be worth $60k and you'll hate yourself because you now own a pointless vehicle that will have horrid resale value but make the 2nd owner very happy because you took the depreciation in the butt like a champ.

because when I have the money to waste on this super soccer mom mobile I would care about resale

will the TCL ever be able to comprehend having money and/or new car purchasing/leasing?...probably not. Lets all just buy used cars.

[VadGTI]

So the one bwk and I spotted was the GL63!



Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using Tapatalk 2

[Gates311]

I've been into the GL's since they debuted years back, especially the G550's with the Sport package bits.. This is so awesome. Pointless, for sure. But so awesome, would be fun to show some friends around the city with. Or whatever, it's just sweet. 550hp stock, tune and pipes it'd make 650hp wheel .

[Gates311]

Also, looks well proportioned for being so big.

[Geechie_Suede]

So now the GLK is the only Merc without an AMG model?

[HASSELHOF]

would rather have G63 or G65 AMG

Can I ask why? The G is going to have much worse road manners then the GL. Add that much more power, while fun, is even more rediculous. The GL would seem to be the better platform for an AMG variant. As an aside, my father-in-law choose to purchase a GL over both the ML and G due to its more comfortable and smoother ride. That longer wheelbase does help.

[hugoaswho]

Ahhh...the New Jersey Housewife/ Trophy Wife truck of choice



Saw one on the way to work today...must have been a MB employee...

[Shmi]

I love me some SUVs with GTFO powah. But like most of the others I'll just add this to the list of massive overkill SUVs I'll never own.

[mesuky22]

I love the GL for some reason, despite the fact they're almost always driven my moms and dads driving their families around.

Yup, this is my wife's next car but the bluetec version

[ambit]

So now the GLK is the only Merc without an AMG model?

well technically the new G-class & SL-class AMG's aren't out yet. And the R-class doesn't have one (anymore).
Otherwise yes, not counting MB heavy trucks segment.

[Accidental L8 apex]

I love the GL for some reason, despite the fact they're almost always driven my moms and dads driving their families around.

I know, I too can't believe more people don't buy these, strip them out for weight and track the bejeesus out of them. Hauling families around. How passe'.

[Fritz27]

I know, I too can't believe more people don't buy these, strip them out for weight and track the bejeesus out of them. Hauling families around. How passe'.

It does seem strange that the target market for a 7-passenger SUV is people with families.

[windycityvdub]

I drove a last gen ML63 yesterday. Did not like.

As far as the GL, hopefully they fixed the reliability of the Airmatic suspension. I see SO many GLs with blown struts/shocks/bags/everything.

[caddy addict]

We have our first ML63's coming in and they are in the 110-120k Range depending on options...

[TangoRed]

As opposed to?

I know, I too can't believe more people don't buy these, strip them out for weight and track the bejeesus out of them. Hauling families around. How passe'.

It does seem strange that the target market for a 7-passenger SUV is people with families.

Did I say it was weird that they were being driven by moms and dads with families in tow, or that it was a bad thing? Most 22 year old males I know don't take a strong liking to family mobiles. That was all I was saying. Jesus TCL.

[Accidental L8 apex]

Did I say it was weird that they were being driven by moms and dads with families in tow, or that it was a bad thing? Most 22 year old males I know don't take a strong liking to family mobiles. That was all I was saying. Jesus TCL.

And I'm to assume you're 22 now? Or take the time to read everyone's profile, hope they added their age and then base my posts on that research? You pointed out the obvious and we took that as you teeing-one-up for us to knock a few out over, no biggie.

[WhatBlueVW]

What is the pricing on these things?

I want a 7 passenger hi po sled...

[71DubBugBug]

the gl550 wasnt fast enough for rich soccer moms?

These have the turbos integrated into the exhaust manifolds?
wonder how much those will be to replace

[torquepower85]

i like the coupe amg better but that's not really on topic now is it...

[masa8888]

What is the pricing on these things?

I want a 7 passenger hi po sled...

Not cheap. The new G550 starts out at $85,000. The S550 starts at $94,000 vs. the S63 which starts at $139,000. If the G63 follows the same formula, it will be around $125k

[TigerinColorado]

Welcome to Benz.

Not gonna lie, it looks better than the outgoing model (unlike the ML).