GLS63, GLE63, and GLE53 PHEV Caught Testing as AMG Prepares Lineup of Refreshed SUVs | Carscoops
A trio of performance SUVs is set to receive infotainment enhancements and star-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), with one model featuring a 536 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Recently, Mercedes-AMG began testing refreshed versions of its larger performance SUVs: the AMG GLS63, GLE63, and GLE53 Coupe. Spy photographers captured images of these vehicles during their testing phases.
The GLS63 and GLE63 will continue to utilize 4.0-liter V8 engines, while the GLE53 transitions to a plug-in hybrid 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine.
Last week, Mercedes disclosed some uninspiring financial results alongside a strategy aimed at improving future performance, which involves launching 19 new or updated combustion vehicles over the next few years. Our team of spy photographers has documented three of these vehicles in action, showcasing their AMG performance capabilities.
The three models include the spacious three-row GLS63, its smaller counterpart the GLE63, and the GLE53 Coupe. Despite their camouflage, it is evident that they will feature Mercedes’ new star-shaped DRLs and a more noticeable grille with a prominent surround, similar to the latest E-Class models. Prior to the introduction of the E-Class, recent Benz grilles lacked a traditional frame.
The star motif also appears at the rear of all three SUVs, which will have updated bumpers and air intakes designed to maintain buyer interest and divert attention from newer competitors. BMW is poised to unveil a new X5, and Audi is on the verge of launching a new Q7, nearly ten years after the debut of the current SUV.
While all these vehicles are marketed under the AMG name, there are significant differences beneath the surface. The GLS63 and GLE63 are expected to retain their 4.0-liter V8 engines and will not shift to the controversial four-cylinder PHEV powertrain found in the C63 S E Performance. With the assistance of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the existing 63 SUVs produce 603 hp (611 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm).
Conversely, the GLE53 adopts a more electric-focused strategy. The current mild-hybrid version generates 429 hp (435 PS) and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm), but the presence of a charging port on the passenger side of the Coupe in the spy images indicates that this model is indeed a PHEV.
Additionally, Mercedes had previously announced, about 18 months ago, that the updated 2026 GLE53 would feature a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with an output of 536 hp (543 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque. It is confirmed to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.6 seconds, improved from 4.9 seconds for the current model; however, the range of the 31.2 kWh battery on a single charge has not yet been disclosed.
All these AMG SUVs are anticipated to debut in 2025 as model year 2026 vehicles.
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GLS63, GLE63, and GLE53 PHEV Caught Testing as AMG Prepares Lineup of Refreshed SUVs | Carscoops
A trio of performance SUVs will receive enhancements to their infotainment systems and feature star-shaped daytime running lights, with one model equipped with a 536 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain.