The flagship performance SUV from Mercedes-AMG has touched down in South Africa. Here are detailed specs and prices for the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+.

The performance SUV is one of the fastest-growing segments in the world and Mercedes-AMG recently unleashed almost its entire portfolio to the South African market. With the GLE, you'd think you'd have most bases covered, but if you wanted the ultimate luxury experience as well as 7-seats, then theMercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ is where you should be looking. It's a rival to the BMW X7, which offers a 390 kW V8 in comparison.

Mercedes-Benz calls the GLS 'the S-Class of SUVs' which gives you some idea of its positioning.“The new GLS 63 is a vehicle for those who are not willing to accept compromises when it comes to versatility, effortless superiority and spaciousness. It’s the ideal companion for long distances, on a par with the S-Class, with rough-terrain attributes and space for up to seven people,” said Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO for Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

You can spot the newMercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ with its bold and aggressive big grille at the front, huge wheels (up to 23-inch), and typical AMG 4-exhaust setup. Inside, the newMercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ features a longer wheelbase in comparison to the outgoing model, which means more space for passengers inside. The legroom in the second row is said to have increased by 87 mm.

As far as features go, there areAMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, and illuminated door sill panels and black floor mats with AMG lettering. Seating comes standard in black AMG nappa leather, with a choice of seven further colour and material variants, and a 3-spoke AMG steering wheel completes the look. The MBUX infotainment system includes numerous AMG-specific features. The modern widescreen cockpit, instrument display and high-resolution multimedia touch display form one visual unit.

Being an AMG model, it naturally has to have a monster of an engine and the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol motor with EQ electrificationis on duty. In this application, it's tuned to 450 kW and 850 Nm. Power is sent to all 4 wheels via a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Despite its large size, Mercedes-AMG claims a sprint time of 4.2 seconds – impressive, considering its size. A top speed of 250 kph is claimed, but with the optional AMG Driver's Package ticked, 280 kph is possible. The vehicle also features air suspension withpneumatic self-levelling and adaptive dampers for exceptional levels of comfort. The vehicle will lower itself at varying speeds to reduce drag and consumption. It can also be raised by up to 55 mm for those who wish to go offroad.

With 7 seats and a potent V8 turbo engine under the bonnet, theMercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ brings new levels of performance luxury.

How much does the newMercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ cost in South Africa?

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+ R3 154 000

Further Reading

BMW Reveals Shadow Edition X7

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6 Things You Need to Know: Updated Mercedes-Benz SUV range

New Mercedes-Benz GLS – Counters X7

Mercedes-Benz GLS 500 (2016) Review