2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63

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2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Review: Overkill Is Underrated

The GLS is often touted as the S-Class of SUVs - that's a lie. But the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 fulfills an entirely different role in the German automaker's lineup, with three rows of seating, a three-pointed star, and a mental twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 developing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. An SUV of this size and stature has no right to hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds with seven occupants on board, but that puts it perfectly in line with other insane SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade-V and Alpina XB7.

In a world where such monstrosities make no sense, this is no S-Class. It's a sign of brash excess for the new money family that likes to make a statement, but it's a member of a breed that won't be around for much longer.

Read in this review:

  • Exterior Design 9 /10
  • Performance 10 /10
  • Fuel Economy 5 /10
  • Interior & Cargo 10 /10
  • Infotainment & Features 10 /10
  • Reliability 7 /10
  • Safety 8 /10
  • Value For Money 8 /10
8.4
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2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2021 AMG GLS 63?

Mercedes-Benz USA confirmed to CarBuzz that the GLS 63 was available to order directly, albeit in limited supply due to a shortage of the twin-turbo V8 engine. As such, it was produced in identical spec to the 2021 model year.

Pros and Cons

  • Massively powerful V8 engine
  • Luxurious cabin
  • Lots of standard tech
  • Quiet cabin
  • Third-row seats tight for adults
  • The transmission could be sharper
  • Only as thirsty as it is expensive

What's the Price of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63?

The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 AMG starts at a base price of $135,400 before a $1,050 destination charge. With a number of options and aesthetic upgrades available, it wouldn't be a surprise to pay over $155k for a fully loaded model. Our test model, for example, rang in with an as-tested price of $153,035.

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2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Trims

See trim levels and configurations:

Trim Engine Transmission Drivetrain Price (MSRP)
AMG GLS 63 4MATIC
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Gas
9-Speed Automatic
All-Wheel Drive
$135,400
See All 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Trims and Specs

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Handling and Driving Impressions

When it comes to how this SUV drives, one should constantly be reminded that the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a seven-seater luxury SUV that weighs as much as a tank and, therefore, should, in theory, not be able to handle or go fast in a straight line at all. In reality, however, it does all those things and then some. Keep your foot in it, and this car will launch from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds flat and will break all speed limits in the USA soon after.

In the city, and when driving at lower speeds over rougher terrain, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 floats over road imperfections, but at higher speeds, the AMG Active Ride Control ensures that body roll is virtually eliminated. This massive Merc turns in and takes corners like a much smaller car, and with 100 percent of the power able to travel to the rear wheels, you can get some drifting action going if that floats your German luxury land boat. On the highway, it's a dead-quiet stealth bomber - aside from the subtle V8 rumble - that gulps down miles faster than it can gulp down gas.

Verdict: Is The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 A Good SUV?

There is simply no reason why anyone should ever require a seven-seater, 600-hp luxury performance SUV, yet here we are. The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is the product of a society that has run out of videos to spoil itself, and although AMG could have made this uber-S-Class of SUVs even more radical, it is at a point where the levels of luxury and tech are peaking. On the road, this goliath of a car manages to thrill when needed, and we're amazed at just how good it can handle a corner, but the AMG GLS 63 will spend most of its time cruising around town, where it excels the most at posing and keeping its occupants comfy. It's quiet, comfortable, tech-laden, and an all-around pleasure to pilot. Many SUVs make more sense, but when you have the money to afford one of these, nothing needs to make sense.

What 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Model Should I Buy?

With only one trim level of the GLS 63, buyers will simply have to select which options they'd like on their already well-equipped SUV. 23-inch wheels were the priciest option on our test car for around $5k but the aggression they bring to the car is worth the price. We could easily do without the carbon fiber engine cover and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel for $1,500 and $600, respectively, but we would keep packages like the Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, Warmth and Comfort Package, and Executive Rear Seat Package. For most buyers, the non-AMG GLS 450 and GLS 580 will be plenty fast and match the level of opulence found in the GLS 63 for far less money.

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