The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
Passenger- focused Mercedes takes on BMW’S ultimate SUV
You know I love a hard math equation once in a while, but this one requires no thought. Gorgeous Luxury SUV times 63 + AMG = Mercedes- Benz’s GLS63 AMG, or if my garage could talk, the most gorgeous SUV to ever park in it.
In a recent review, we experienced the X7, BMW’S superb SUV that is not only a 7- passenger people- mover, but a passenger pleaser. It performed great on the road and was a driver’s dream. Now, on this week’s tester, we get the Mercedes response, the GLS63 AMG.
The numbers don’t lie: 603 ground- pounding horsepower, 627 earth- shattering lb.ft. of torque, a zero- 60 mph time of 4.1 seconds for the almost 5,800- pound land yacht … add a little help from the 48- volt EQ Boost Integrated starter generator creating up to 184 lb.- ft. of gas- free torque … mighty impressive.
The 9- speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission holds out on shifting to let the exhaust really throttle up. Our 4MATIC ( AWD) system performed well in fall rainy days. The grandish 23- inch AMG forged multi- spoke wheels ( for an additional $ 5,000) as well as AMG’S Ride Control Suspension provided a higher ride for off- road capabilities and a lower ride for your everyday travel.
Exterior sights are absolutely exquisite on the GLS63; the AMG package provides nice curves and sightlines. The front fascia largely explodes on the GLS 63 with the MB emblem larger than most hands, and the black vertical grill accents mesh nicely with the wheels. The Selenite Grey exterior is also subtle and says just enough about the AMG overall ensemble.
A 24.5- inch instrument cluster combined with its Media Display showed similar clarity to that of an LED TV including navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Sirius XM. The heated and ventilated seats were comfortable and not tight. The 64- color interior ambient lighting option was nice as well to set the mood for any drive.
Our 2021 GLS63 was optioned up with a warmth and comfort package, including heated door panels and armrests. An executive rear seat package included rear wireless charging, a 7- inch tablet, extended console and heated and cooled cup holders. The night package tweaked exterior appearance, and an acoustic comfort package implements deafening exterior sound.
The $ 132,100 base price might make you breathe a little deeper for the average SUV owner, but this is not the average SUV. This is the exact definition of upper class luxury. As a tester, our 2021 GLS63 compares well to BMW’S X7 as it focuses on the driver, while the GLS63 is more designed for the passengers as it truly brings out the best in 7- passenger luxury.
2021 Mercedes- Benz GLS63
MSRP: $ 132,000
As tested: $ 153,035
MPG: 13city/ 18highway/ 15.2as tested