AMG has updated its GLE and GLS SUVs with its new flat-plane crank V8

Having just unveiled its rather controversial all-electric GT 4-Door Coupe, AMG is now going back to its roots by fitting standard Mercs with massive V8s. All is right with the world. Okay, maybe not all, but at least AMGs are about to get loud again.

That’s thanks to the M177 EVO engine, which is the old 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 but “thoroughly updated” with a flat-plane crank, a modified intake camshaft and a new fuel-injection system. It actually debuted as a non-AMG power unit in the updated S-Class that we first drove last month, but now the folks in Affalterbach have slotted it into the GLE and GLS SUVs.

They’ve both been facelifted at the same time with new lights, grilles and bumpers, but it’s the V8 that’s the real story here.

“Our V8 is a central component of our performance DNA and the ideal heart for the new GLE 63 S and GLS 63. For years, the V8 has stood for impressive performance and great popularity among our customers,” said AMG boss Michael Schiebe.

“With the new M177 EVO generation, we have fundamentally revised the power unit and secured its presence in our portfolio for the long term. The result is an engine that impresses with agile response, strong performance and a pronounced appetite for revs – while at the same time meeting increasingly demanding regulations worldwide.”

Despite all the work to help meet ever more stringent emissions regs, the V8 also manages to make just as much power as before, so you’re looking at 604bhp and 627lb ft of torque in both of these giant SUVs. Both also get mild-hybrid tech with an integrated starter generator and a 48-volt electrical system that adds an extra 23bhp and provides bonus torque at low revs. Expect to see this engine rolled out across the AMG range.

Here it helps the GLS get from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds, while the GLE reaches the same speed in 3.9 seconds whether you’ve gone for the proper SUV version or the Coupe. Should still sound fruity too thanks to a new valve-controlled exhaust system.

Both cars get air suspension and active roll stabilisation that apparently reads “driving manoeuvres and the road surface” up to 1,000 times per second. There’s all-wheel drive of course, plus a locking rear diff. Wheels are up to 22in on the GLE and 23in on the monster GLS.

On the inside there’s a new AMG spec steering wheel that can be trimmed in fancy Nappa leather, while the screens all run on a new MB.OS operating system. You’re still thinking about that V8 though, aren’t you?