2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63S test drive review

Every once in a while, maybe only a few times in your life, there will be a car that leaves an impression — forever. A car that makes you rethink everything you believe about what cars are and what they should be. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63S is one of these cars. Everything about it is astounding and a thousand other superlatives.

It’s hard to imagine a more perfect road-going SUV than this. Affalterbach has perfected its craft, and we in Salt Lake City could not be more grateful. As Ferris Bueller would say, if you have the means, we highly suggest picking one up. Shop Mercedes-Benz GLE models.

Price and value

Merecedes-Benz was so eager to get us into its refreshed 2024 GLE that we don’t have accurate pricing for it. However, given the previous year’s pricing, we expect the starting MSRP for the GLE 63S to be around $120,000. Sure it’s steep, but we think it’s worth taking out a second mortgage.

The MSRP range for the rest of the 2024 GLE lineup is $62,250-$86,750. Each of the six GLE models is available in a variety of trim levels. Some of the major differences between the two AMG GLE models are noted below. 

• AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+: $86,750  See listings

AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder with hybrid assist

4.9 seconds 0-60 mph 

429 horsepower, 413 pound-feet of torque 

• AMG GLE 63S 4MATIC+: $120,000 (estimated)

Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter Biturbo V8 with hybrid assist 

3.7 seconds 0-60 mph 

603 horsepower, 627 pound-feet of torque

The GLE 63S doesn’t come cheap but trust us, you’ll feel, hear and see every dollar of that price tag. It’s gorgeous, extremely comfortable and spacious, and it offers performance many sports cars can’t touch. Just buy it, be happy and don’t look back.

After spending all that money, you won’t have to worry about repairs — at least for a few years, anyway. Mercedes-Benz limited and powertrain warranties cover four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. No complimentary scheduled maintenance is offered.

Performance 

The performance of the GLE 63S is staggering. It’s so powerful, so endlessly capable, it’s a true superstar in anything you ask of it. Want a subdued, comfortable commute? The 2024 GLE nails it. Want to hoon around with 603 German horsepower at your disposal? The GLE is eager to please — and it does, masterfully.

Engine 

The 2024 AMG GLE 63S is powered by one of the great engines of our time: a handbuilt 4.0-liter Biturbo V8 with hybrid assist that produces 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. It’s a truly brilliant engine with character, strength and a sound that you’ll want to record and listen to on your AirPods. It’s surprisingly efficient, too. If we could meet the technician that put this engine together, we’d heartily shake their hand.

Fuel efficiency

With all that power, you’d think that fuel efficiency would be in the tank. Not so. Sure, if you have an extremely heavy foot, you’ll experience low teens. However, in our week of combined driving, we averaged nearly 20 mpg — not bad, and a worthy sacrifice for the joy this engine produces.

Drivetrain

The amazing V8 has excellent drivetrain partners: an AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution. Shifts are quick and the all-wheel drive, coupled with the enormously thick and sticky tires, provides grip otherwise thought impossible in a nearly 7,000-pound SUV.

Acceleration and handling

Acceleration is thunderous, purposeful and thrilling. The blare of the valved exhaust is deep and bellowing. It’s an experience few other vehicles can provide. It just doesn’t get much better than this. Handling is likewise superb. Make no mistake, this is a large, heavy SUV, but you’d never know it. The mass is present, but the AMG engineering seems to shrug and say, “So what? We’re going to take this corner anyway.” And it does — really well. It might be a luxury SUV, but its dynamics are deceptively incredible.

Braking 

Our tester came fitted with absolutely massive carbon ceramic brakes and hoo-boy, they are strong. That said, they were sensitive. Too sensitive. Were it our money, we would forgo the pricey brakes and stick with the regular but already great base brakes. Shop Mercedes-Benz GLE models.

Interior comfort and convenience

Remember that $120,000 price tag? Well, if you didn’t feel it and hear it in the driving dynamics, you’ll surely see it and experience it in the interior. It is top-tier in the segment, with some of the best technology, comfort, materials and space we’ve seen. We would happily live here.

Seats 

All the seats in the GLE 63S are supremely comfortable and adjustable. The leather and suede are of the highest quality. The heating and ventilating elements are excellent. However, the best seats might be in the second row. There is much more legroom and headspace than you expect, making it comfortable for anyone of any size.

Climate control 

The HVAC functionality of the cabin is second to none, needing almost no time at all to reach your desired temperature. Our favorite part? The canister of perfume that gets spritzed into the vents, creating a rich-smelling cabin. Another standout feature was the heated center and door armrests. Just add those to the list of things we can’t live without. 

We also have to mention the steering wheel. It’s beautiful and unlike any other on the market in terms of aesthetics, functionality and comfort. Its design is new for 2024 and we think it’s one of the best we’ve experienced.

Cargo space and cabin storage 

The GLE 63S may only have two rows, but we think it’s all the better for it. We already mentioned the ample second-row space for passengers, but the cargo area is also much larger than expected. Between the roominess, storage and comfort, this SUV makes a strong case for being the perfect daily driver.

Infotainment system 

Both the digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen are crystal clear, bright and easy to use. We did have some issues with maintaining our wireless Apple CarPlay connection, but we chalk that up to our tester being an early production model.

There are also three ways to control the infotainment screen, including touch, steering wheel controls and a trackpad on the lower center console. The Burmester stereo, a mainstay in Mercedes-Benz products, continues to be one of the best in the business. It’s so good, it may tempt you to actually listen to it rather than the sonorous exhaust note. Shop Mercedes-Benz GLE models.

Exterior appearance and functionality 

The GLE 63S takes what is already a beautiful midsize SUV and makes it go to the gym. The SUV is stout, strong and well-proportioned. It’s subdued just enough to perfectly communicate its svelte yet strong driving personality. For 2024, Mercedes-Benz updated the front and rear fascias, which contribute to its attractive and athletic stance.

Towing capacity 

Towing capacity has yet to be revealed for the 2024 AMG GLE 63S, but based on previous years, it’s likely to be between 3-4,000 pounds.

Wheels 

The 22-inch forged AMG cross spoke tires look sporty and refined, especially with their machined finish. They’re also enormous and are shod with 325-millimeter wide tires — some of the widest we’ve seen on an SUV. The performance tires provided ample grip, but we shudder to think what they cost to replace.

Lights and turn signals

Even in the lighting can you feel the quality of this AMG product. The redesigned headlights and taillights are bright and crystal clear. The real stand out is the LED ambient lighting in the interior. While not quite as pervasive as in the S-Class, the lighting is truly beautiful and makes you feel like you’re traveling on a private jet. Although after driving the GLE 63S, who would ever want to fly?

Cameras and side mirrors 

The cameras were likewise top-notch. The side mirrors were large, easily adjustable and provided excellent views down the sides of the vehicle.

Front and rear windshield

Due to the large windshield and upfront, open seating position, visibility was excellent. We appreciated the open feeling of the cabin, and the large windows contributed to that. Shop Mercedes-Benz GLE models.

Safety 

As with other top-level luxury vehicles, the 2024 AMG GLE 63S is loaded with all the latest safety technology. It also feels bank vault secure and planted on the road, which adds to the overall feeling of safety.

Features 

Mercedes-Benz doesn’t skimp on anything, including safety features. Here are some of the included features:

• Level 2 driving assistance

• Forward collision warning

• Automatic emergency braking

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology

• Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Awards and ratings 

The refreshed 2024 GLE is brand new, so no awards have been given as of this writing. Shop Mercedes-Benz GLE models.

Final impression 

As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. And that’s definitely the case with the 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63S. Every bit of it feels like the very best you can buy. From the hand built engine to the amazing technology to the ultra luxurious interior, this GLE is a special vehicle. 

Driving it is a paradigm shifting experience. It rewrites your brain as to what SUVs can — and should — be. It will have you justifying to your friends and family how selling your house to get one is a good idea. If you can afford one, or even if you have to stretch a bit financially, it will be worth it. We loved our time with the GLE 63S and hope upon hope that it comes into our lives again someday. 

Find your new GLE on KSL Cars.

FAQs

Is the AMG GLE 63S fun to drive?

It’s so much fun. It may not be razor-sharp in its handling dynamics, but it’s brutally powerful in a controlled, natural way. Think of it as a hammer rather than a scalpel. The AMG also encases you in luxury and comfort, so when coupled with the powers that be, it makes for an unforgettable experience.

Is it good for families?

For two or three children, absolutely. It’s much larger inside than the exterior suggests, and there’s ample passenger, cargo and storage space. This might be one of the most fun family haulers on the market — as long as you don’t mind Cheerios being ground into the fine leather seats. 

*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.

About the author: Having owned everything from a DeLorean to an E46 BMW M3 and a Toyota Land Cruiser, Jason Bell is a lifelong car enthusiast who loves sharing his passions as a teacher, automotive journalist and social media manager. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press where he serves on the Board of Directors. Contact him at jasonbellcars@gmail.com