Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG India Launch; Price Is Rs 1.66 Crore

About an year after launching the GL-Class SUV in India, Mercedes-Benz has brought in its more powerful, performance oriented cousin, the GL 63 AMG to the country. Priced at INR 1.66 crore (ex-showroom, Mumbai), Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG is the most powerful SUV in its class in India, not to mention, one of the most luxurious.

The reason for the hefty price tag for the GL 63 AMG, which costs more than twice that of the GL 350 CDI's INR 78.88 lakh asking price is due to the fact that it is being imported as a completely built unit. The regular GL-Class sold in India, on the other hand, is locally assembled in Chakan, Pune.

For that price, you get a massive 5.5-litre V8 engine that puts out 550 bhp between 5,250-5,750 rpm and 760Nm torque between 2,000-5,000 rpm. The engine comes coupled to AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic transmission, transfering power to all four wheels (40:60 power delivery ratio front/rear) via the Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

In comparison, the regular GL-Class sold in India comes with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that delivers 258 bhp at 3600 rpm and 619 Nm torque between 1600-2400 rpm.

The most powerful GL-Class SUV can do a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds and can achieve an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Besides a more potent engine, the GL 63 AMG is also equipped with AMG Ride Control sports suspension with Airmatic package that consists of air suspensions, automatic level control and adaptive damping system. Also on offer is an Active Curve System with active roll stabilization.

Another interesting and useful feature being provided with the GL 63 AMG is Night View Assist Plus, which uses infrared to display a clearer picture of the dark surroundings on the car's 8-inch screen.

Apart from the usual luxury features such as leather seats and such articles, one notable piece of equipment found in the GL 63 AMG is the 14 speaker, high performance Harman Kardon Logic surround system.

With the introduction of the GL 63 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has increased its AMG vehicle range in India to five, the other models being the C 63 AMG, the E 63 AMG, the SLK 55 AMG and G 63 AMG. Next in line for launch is the CLA 45 AMG that was showcased at the Auto Expo this year.