Blessed with AMG’s 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 (one of the best-sounding engines on the planet, in our opinion), the go-fast-grocery-getter produces 550 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough to get the three-row SUV from 0-60 mph in under five seconds, on its way to a governed top speed of 155 mph.
Despite its size, the GL63 looks like it will deliver remarkably agile performance, thanks to technologies like its Airmatic adjustable-height suspension, AMG Ride Control dampers and the automaker’s Active Curve System, which optimizes available grip and handling in corners. Shifting duties are performed exclusively by AMG’s Speedshift seven-speed automatic transmission.
Styling differences between the GL63 AMG and the rest of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models are subtle, with the most obvious being the GL63 AMG's 21-inch wheels and flared fenders. There are larger air intakes in the front fascia, too, but these changes aren't quite as obvious.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG is expected to hit U.S. dealerships in the first quarter of next year. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date, but in the mean time you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the GL63 AMG tearing up European roads.