2027 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 spied with second spherical of updates

• Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vary anticipated to be up to date for 2027 mannequin 12 months
• A GLS 63 prototype is out testing with gentle camouflage gear solely
• Plug-in hybrid powertrain is feasible for GLS 63

Mercedes-Benz is engaged on an replace for the GLS-Class, and the most recent prototype to be noticed is for the fiery AMG GLS 63 mannequin.

Earlier photographs present prototypes for up to date variations of the common GLS-Class and ultra-luxury Maybach GLS-Class.

The present GLS-Class arrived for the 2020 mannequin 12 months and was given an replace for 2024; the most recent prototypes are for a second replace for the full-size SUV. This second replace, which can possible be launched for the 2027 mannequin 12 months within the U.S., is anticipated to be extra substantial than the considerably delicate earlier replace.

We’re nonetheless within the early levels of improvement, judging by the dearth of visible adjustments on the prototype. Mild camouflage gear factors solely to new headlights being examined. Non-visible components like chassis and powertrain techniques can also be new, although.

It is not clear what Mercedes has deliberate for the mechanical parts. New plug-in hybrid powertrains are potential, significantly for the GLS 63. The smaller GLE 53 is already confirmed by AMG to be receiving a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the 2026 mannequin 12 months.

2027 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63 facelift spy photographs – Picture by way of Baldauf

The GLS 63 is at present supplied with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 rated at 603 hp. The engine works along with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and drives all 4 wheels by way of a 9-speed computerized transmission.

Within the common GLS-Class, it is potential the out there V-8 will get dropped, identical to the up to date 2025 G-Class which solely provides a V-8 in AMG G 63 guise.

Mercedes would not usually replace its autos greater than as soon as throughout a conventional product cycle which lasts 7-8 years, however a second replace for the GLS-Class suggests the SUV will stick round longer than that. This transfer is in response to Mercedes reportedly extending the gross sales timeline for a few of its present gas-powered autos past what was initially deliberate.

The choice comes as demand for electrical autos has been slower than anticipated. Though Mercedes aimed to transition solely to electrical autos by 2030, the automaker introduced in February that it’ll proceed promoting gas-powered fashions past that deadline.

A second facelift can be deliberate for the GLE-Class vary, and the S-Class is one other automobile that’s anticipated to have two facelifts to lengthen its product cycle.