Even though it promises to be an awesome SUV, BMW’s next generation X5 M won’t have all cake for itself. No, just a day after we caught the Bavarian amazing high-performance prototype, it came up its biggest rival, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63. The testing vehicle is completely camouflaged, but it’s not too hard to conclude what a handsome SUV it will become.
Of course, the topping 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 share the same basics with the regular GLE. However, there are some details which you won’t find on the starter. For instance, the high-performance model sports a notably lower and wider stance, as well as different front fascia and a unique grille. Since it’s not the production-ready model, the testing mule isn’t showing everything. However, we expect to see more muscles when they finish the job.
Taking into account that BMW prepares an engine capable of delivering up to 600 horsepower for its next X5 M, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 will need to get something that’s able to compete with it. Of course, the most probable option will be AMG’s 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8, which is able to deliver up to 603 horsepower. The mighty mill will come in a pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Some rumors indicate that the German car manufacturer might decide to add some kind of hybrid under the hood of the upcoming crossover. Well, the all-new GLE 63 will not get the options. Instead, it’s reserved for the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLE53. The luxury high-riding car will reportedly combine a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine with a mild hybrid system. The overall output will be limited to 500 horsepower.
Since the carmaker plans to introduce the regular GLE-Class early next year, we suppose that the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 should be ready either late 2018 or in early 2019.