The new Mercedes‑AMG GLE 63 has 604bhp and gets to 62mph in 3.8 seconds

Sadly only available in coupe form in the UK, the top new version of the GLE gets the expected AMG styling makeover inside and out along with an electrified mild-hybrid drivetrain that pairs a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a 48-volt starter-generator. 

In S form, the GLE 63 gets 612hp (604bhp), 40 horses more than the regular 63, which is enough for a (restricted) 174mph top speed and 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds. That’s just as quick as the substantially more powerful Cayenne coupe. 

You wouldn’t have to drive the sportiest GLE, or hear its likely distinctive AMG V8 exhaust burble, to know that it’s an AMG and a mighty potent one at that. There’s no mistaking its now-familiar AMG-specific radiator grille, here in high-gloss chrome like the splitter below it. There are powerdomes on the bonnet and the front apron takes its inspiration from a jet-wing design. There are side skirts, a new design of rear apron and diffuser and, standard on the S version, 22-inch wheels.

Apart from improving step-off performance, the EQ Boost electric side powers the car’s Active Roll Control stabilisation system, making it faster to respond than purely hydraulic systems. As usual, there’s an array of AMG drive modes to choose from, ranging from Comfort right up to Race in the S model and even including Trail and Sand for owners game to leave the tarmac. Clever all-wheel-drive, air suspension and adjustable ride height allows it to traverse a range of environments, says Mercedes. 

All bit of a beast then. We just wish Mercedes didn’t call it an SUC. It might be a sports utility coupe but surely there’s a more polite acronym?