Mercedes-AMG is overhauling its twin-turbocharged V-8 for the 2027 model year, switching the GLE63 S and GLS63 to a flat-plane crankshaft design. This engineering shift marks a significant departure from the traditional cross-plane configuration that has defined AMG's high-performance engines for decades.
The flat-plane crank delivers a sharper, higher-pitched exhaust note and enables quicker throttle response compared to the cross-plane design. It also distributes firing pulses more evenly across the exhaust cycle, which improves turbocharger efficiency and reduces lag. Porsche pioneered flat-plane cranks in production cars with the 911 GT3 and Cayman GT4, proving the technology enhances performance on both road and track.
For the GLE63 S and GLS63, this transition signals AMG's commitment to extracting every last increment of performance from its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged platform. Both models serve different market segments. The GLE63 S targets sport-utility coupe buyers who prioritize handling, while the GLS63 appeals to three-row SUV customers seeking raw acceleration and towing capacity.
The interior redesign balances modern tech with usability. Mercedes integrates larger displays across the cabin but retains physical controls for critical functions like climate adjustment and infotainment navigation. This approach counters the industry trend toward all-touchscreen interfaces, recognizing that drivers value tactile feedback and quick access to core functions without menu diving.
The flat-plane crank adoption positions Mercedes-AMG competitively against Porsche's turbo offerings and BMW's M models. As turbocharged engines dominate performance segments, manufacturers compete on refinement and response characteristics. The flat-plane design allows Mercedes to claim advantages