Besides the GLE,->ke4971 Mercedes-Benz has also unveiled the AMG version for this mid-size SUV,->ke145 which also brings a change in nomenclature along with the mid-cycle facelift. The new GLE63 is more powerful than it's predecessor, the ML63 AMG,.

The standard model is called GLE63 (not to be confused with the S version), just like its Coupe brethen. Powered by an engine as powerful as the old ML63 AMG with the optional Performance Package, the 2016 GLE63 is different than the model it replaces in some ways and is exactly the same in others. I say this because, for the first time in three generations, the AMG version for the mid-size premium SUV has gone through a truly massive transformation during the model's refresh, while also keeping some of the features that made it famous.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GLE63.

Exterior

The main design difference compared to the non-AMG model is at the front, with its more aerodynamically sculpted bumper. Unlike the one from a few years ago, the unmistakable A-shaped bumper has gone through a slight transformation, but nothing too extreme. The engine grille is also AMG-specific, with a double louvre in chrome integrating the three letters and the central Mercedes-Benz star.

Tires measuring 265/45 R20 engulf 20-inch AMG wheels, but those looking for better looks and improved dynamics can opt for 21-inch wheels with meatier, 295/35 R21 tires, housed under wider wheel arches. At the rear there is a black diffuser insert that features a trim strip shaped like the letter "A," while the exhaust system features a chrome-plated dual tailpipe at each end of the diffuser. Even if it weren't for the AMG lettering on every side of the car, the GLE63 can still be recognized as an AMG model from afar.

Exterior Dimensions

Interior

As standard, the Mercedes-AMG GLE63's interior features aluminum trim and a dashboard engulfed in Artico artificial leather. Also standard is a flat-bottomed steering wheel with silver paddle-shifters from AMG Performance, and perforated-leather nappa sports seats with improved side bolsters and a bespoke upholstery design. Distinctive AMG equipment includes sportier-looking dials with a carbon-fiber look and AMG-specific lettering and red pointers, while the infotainment system has the so-called Racetimer option, a gear indicator and a distinctive design for the start-up screen.

New for the facelift is a 7-inch multifunction display that will likely get a lot of heat for its "freestanding" design, although it looks better integrated than in some other models. As an option, buyers can choose an 8-inch version of the display, which comes as standard if the Comand Online infotainment system is specced. The two, tube-shaped dials in the instrument cluster also feature a 4.4-inch, multifunction display in the middle, which offers configurable settings and information.

Drivetrain

The GLE63 has a twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter, V-8 engine that develops 550 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. These numbers translate into a 0-62 mph acceleration of 4.3 seconds and an electronically capped top speed of 155 mph. Those wanting more oomph can alway opt for the more-powerful GLE63 S version. The optional AMG Driver's package increases the speed limiter to 174 mph. Just like its predecessor, the GLE 63's V-8 is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission, but the shift times have been improved.

Apart from the standard air suspension, the model is also fitted with AMG Ride Control and special struts, which include continuously variable dampers and the Active Curve System roll stabilization. Active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle compensate for the roll of the car during cornering and increase handling stability.

Drivetrain Specifications

Prices

There is no official word on pricing, but the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 shouldn't be much more expensive than the model it replaces when it goes on sale near the end of 2015. The ML63 AMG currently has a MSRP of $98,400, so a starting price of around $100,000 wouldn't be out of the question for the GLE63.

Competition

BMW X5M

Unlike the GLE63, which is a thorough mid-cycle facelift for the ML63 AMG, the 2016 BMW X5M is part of a new generation. Its twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter, V-8 engine delivers 567 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, giving the model a 0 to 62 mph acceleration time of just 4.2 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 156 mph.

Both performance figures are thus slightly better than on the new GLE63, but Mercedes-AMG also offers a GLE63 S-Model to compensate. The X5 M's V-8 is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF, which has slightly better software than the venerable seven-speed unit from Mercedes-Benz. You can read more about the BMW X5 M in our review.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo S

Having had a mid-cycle refresh of its own in 2014, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S can still keep up with the new Mercedes-AMG GLE63 and the BMW X5 M. Just like its rivals, the Cayenne Turbo S is powered by a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine. No less than 570 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque are extracted from a displacement of 4.8 liters, giving the Turbo S a 0-62 mph time of just 4.1 seconds, but only when the launch control option of its eight-speed automatic transmission is used.

With a top speed of 176 mph, the Cayenne Turbo S is by far the fastest production SUV in the world, and there is a distinct possibility that it may thrash both the Merc and the BMW on a circuit. It may lose its "fastest SUV" title after the upcoming Bentley Bentayga W12 goes on sale. You can read more about the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S in our review.

Conclusion

The mid-size SUV from Mercedes-Benz has always had an AMG version, starting with the model's first generation in the late 1990s. Now in the M-Class' third generation, the three-pointed star has decided to not only give it an ample refresh, but also change its designation completely. Available in two flavors, the new Mercedes-AMG GLE63 occupies the same space left by the ML63 AMG with the Performance Package, and it offers improved performance on all levels. While I'm still not completely convinced by the shape of those taillights, I think that the overall design upgrade works well for the model and I'm a fan of the new nomenclature.