The last time we saw a

prototype of the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 the entire exterior was covered in camouflage during winter testing. Fast forward a few months, and the potent SUV is showing a lot more skin. Since we last saw it testing, most of the camouflage has been stripped away, giving us our best look yet at Mercedes-AMG's upcoming BMW X5 M rival.

The AMG-specific parts, such as the Panamericana grille lifted from the AMG GT and S63, the front bumper with large intakes, and wider fenders and side sills, are still covered, but the rest of the body is completely devoid of camouflage. Compared to the regular model, the GLE 63 has a lower and wider stance, as you would expect from an AMG model.

From the strip tease, it's clear the new GLE will only have minor changes at the profile, though the C-Pillar looks slightly more rounded. At the front, the new GLE will feature LED headlights similar to the E-Class. The prototype's massive brakes with bright red calipers and signature quad-tip exhaust pipes also confirm we're looking at the AMG variant.

Under the hood, the GLE 63 will likely be powered by the E63's 4.0-liter V8 producing 563 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the GLE 63 S is expected to send 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through a nine-speed automatic. The removed camouflage suggests development of the GLE is at an advanced stage, so expect the regular model to break cover within the next few months. The more potent GLE 63 will likely debut before the end of the year before going on sale in 2019.