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.

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.

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.

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.