Mercedes-Benz has decided that it’s about time that its jumbo SUV got a dose of high performance oomph from AMG.
The GL63 AMG marks the model line’s first foray into AMG territory with the application of a 5,5-litre twin turbo V8 engine delivering 410 kW and 760 N.m of torque. Coupled with a Speedshift 7-speed automatic transmission, this unit will propel the GL from standstill to 100 km/h in an eyebrow-raising 4,9 seconds on the way to an electronically limited 250 km/h top speed.
Despite its high performance bearing this model still features all of the GL’s off-road prowess, thanks to adaptive air suspension and all-wheel drive with an advanced terrain response system.
The new GL is underpinned by a lengthened version of the ML’s platform and measures 5 120 mm in length, 2 141 mm wide and 1 850 mm high with a 3 075 mm wheelbase. The styling has been sharpened up with the most prominent design elements being those sizeable SL-style headlamps. The short overhangs, high ground clearance and rising beltline have also been accordingly updated.
In AMG guise, the styling incorporates additional LED lighting elements, sportier front and rear valances as well as 21-inch alloy wheels.
The first consignment of European GL63 AMGs will go on sale in November. Mercedes-Benz South Africa is still mulling the viability of bringing the GL63 AMG here, but it has confirmed that the standard new GLs will arrive here with an engine line-up similar to that of the current car, and possibly some BlueTech variants, during the second quarter of 2013.
