Scottsdale Meets a Super‑SUV: The 2026 Mercedes‑AMG GLS 63 Brings V8 Muscle to Desert Roads

Local roads, big power: Why Scottsdale drivers should care about the new GLS 63

The 2026 Mercedes‑AMG GLS 63 arrives as a statement: a three‑row SUV that wants to be a supercar in evening clothes. For Scottsdale drivers who tow toys, haul family, or simply enjoy pushing a big SUV through tight corners, this model promises the kind of grunt and polish we usually expect from smaller, high‑end AMG cars. The GLS 63 blends a hand‑built V8 engine, an upscale cabin, and active chassis systems so buyers can commute in comfort one day and feel serious performance the next.

This GLS comes from Mercedes‑Benz Group (MBGYY) and wears the AMG badge, which means it’s tuned for speed and drama. In practical terms for locals: you get a roomy seven‑seat layout for school runs and golf bags, plus a driving experience that makes long desert highways feel more engaging. The car aims to be both a family mover and a weekend thrill — a rare promise in the SUV world.

Handcrafted punch: engine, drivetrain and what the numbers mean on the road

Under the hood sits AMG’s twin‑turbo V8 — a hand‑assembled 4.0‑liter unit that delivers roughly 600 horsepower and around 600–650 lb‑ft of torque, depending on final trim and packages. That raw torque launches a vehicle this size with surprising authority. Mercedes‑AMG pairs the engine with a quick‑shifting automatic transmission and its 4MATIC+ all‑wheel‑drive system, which can send torque to the axle or wheel that needs it most.

In everyday driving, that hardware translates to instant throttle response and confident passing on highways. The GLS 63 will still feel heavy compared with a sedan, but the V8’s power makes merging and hill climbs feel effortless. AMG’s performance kit also includes a selectable drive mode system: choose Comfort for smooth city rides, Sport for sharper throttle and shift mapping, and Race‑like settings for track use.

Suspension and braking are equally important here. Expect AMG‑tuned adaptive air suspension with active anti‑roll control. In plain terms, the GLS will lean less in corners than a normal large SUV, and the ride will settle over bumps when you want comfort. Big, multi‑piston brakes give the stopping power to match the acceleration, so the car’s performance feels balanced rather than one‑sided.

Presence and polish: exterior cues and where passengers find luxury

The 2026 GLS 63 looks like an AMG: wider track, aggressive grille, flared fenders and larger wheels that fill the arches. Those visual touches aren’t just for show — they hint at the car’s performance limits and give it a planted stance on open roads.

Inside, Mercedes leans into luxury without hiding the sporty nature. Expect sculpted AMG seats, high‑grade leather or Nappa options, and trim choices such as carbon fiber or dark woods. The cabin is built around passenger comfort: generous rear legroom in the second row, a usable third row for kids or occasional adults, and a flat load floor when seats fold. Families will appreciate the mix of durability and finishing touches — materials that look and feel premium, with room for car seats and cargo.

Small touches matter for daily life in Scottsdale: a panoramic roof for bright desert days, multiple USB points, and heated and ventilated seats keep everyone comfortable whether you’re stuck in traffic or heading out for a weekend drive.

Smart help behind the wheel: infotainment and safety tech that ease ownership

Mercedes’ MBUX interface continues to be the central hub. Expect large, high‑resolution screens, voice control that responds to plain language, and navigation tuned for performance routes. Connectivity features include wireless phone integration and over‑the‑air software updates that keep the car’s systems current without a trip to the dealer.

On the safety side, the GLS 63 carries a full slate of driver‑assist tools: adaptive cruise with stop‑and‑go functions, lane‑center assist, and a surround camera system that makes parking and low‑speed maneuvers easier. AMG versions also add performance‑oriented stability controls that let experienced drivers explore the car’s limits with safety nets in place.

For daily ownership this means fewer surprises: the tech makes long trips simpler, and active systems help manage such a large vehicle in tight parking lots and busy roads.

When it arrives and what Scottsdale buyers should expect to pay

Mercedes‑Benz of Scottsdale will be among the local points of contact for orders and demos. The dealer is expected to offer dedicated AMG demonstration vehicles and special appointment slots so serious buyers can experience both the street and track modes. Delivery timing for 2026 models typically follows an order window; expect allocation to begin late in the model year with dealer deliveries rolling out over weeks to months depending on demand.

Price for an AMG GLS 63 sits in the upper range of full‑size luxury SUVs. Buyers should plan for a low six‑figure starting point, with densely optioned cars reaching into the mid‑six figures after packages and extras. Scottsdale customers who want specific AMG packages — like track‑ready brakes, carbon‑trimmed interiors or bespoke paint — should reserve early and discuss allocation and build timing with the dealer’s AMG specialist.

Who this GLS suits in Scottsdale — and how to take the next step

This GLS 63 is for people who need space but don’t want to sacrifice excitement. If your priority is hauling a family and weekend gear while also craving real engine sound and strong acceleration, this car fits. It’s less for buyers who want maximized fuel efficiency or the lowest possible running costs; the V8 focus means higher fuel use and maintenance attention compared with milder SUVs.

If you’re curious, the practical next step is a serious test drive. Ask Mercedes‑Benz of Scottsdale for an AMG demo so you can feel the V8 and try different drive modes. Pay attention to how it handles real roads you know — the combination of size, power and suspension is the GLS 63’s point of difference. For buyers who want a high‑end family SUV with true performance chops, the 2026 AMG GLS 63 is worth putting on the short list.

Sources

• prnewswire.com