The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 Luxury 3 Row SUV takes on the Canyons and Coast of California
Shannon Scott
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Have you ever been handed the keys to a car that leave wondering, “You can’t possibly mean for me to drive this car… can you?”
That is the exact way I felt when I walked up to the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 luxury 3 row SUV. This is one of the most beautiful cars I have ever seen and they were going to let ME drive it for 4 days through the canyons and down the coast of California.
This is a literal California Dream. But California dreams come with California price tags, and this one is no exception. With a base price of $133,150, this Mercedes-Benz isn’t for everyone, but if you get your hands on one, you won’t be disappointed.
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The 23′ Monoblack Forged Wheels are a sight to be seen. Photo: Shannon Scott
Sitting on Dubs – 23″ Monoblock Forged Black Wheels
The first thing I noticed about this Mercedes-AMG GLS63 were the beautiful wheels on this vehicle. They are, of course, an additional add on that comes with a $5,000 price tag, but they are fully worth it. They just make this car look like such a boss. Now, of course, you don’t have to add these wheels to the one you decide to take home, the standard wheel is 21″, but go big or go home, right?
With 603 horsepower, you might forget you are driving a 3 row SUV. Photo: Shannon Scott
“3 Row SUVs Aren’t Fast,” You Say? The Mercedes-AMG GLS63 Says, “Hold My Sparkling Water.”
It’s been 20 years since I was last in Los Angeles, and when I was there I wasn’t the one doing the driving. Enter year 2021, and now I’ve been handed the keys to a 6,019 lb. SUV with 603 horsepower. You better believe I’m gonna give that a go.
Let. Me. Tell. You. The AMG GLS63 did not disappoint. This car is rated at 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds. I drive a 3-row SUV for my daily drive and it is not something I would consider a fast car. But this. This, my friends, is luxury and speed all wrapped up in one glorious Target-shopping-trip-and-soccer-gear-toting package.
For as large of a vehicle that it is, I was a bit nervous taking it through Topanga Canyon from Malibu to Woodland Hills, but it did not let me down. It took the curves, at the posted speed, with ease and never once did I feel out of control. You might not think keeping up with even 45 MPH on some of those curves would be possible, but I promise, the incredible handling of the GLS64 will leave you giggling with glee.
On the highway, “Distronic Plus” adaptive cruise control makes it easy to keep your speed up while also keeping up – or slowing down– with traffic. Using it on the I-405 was a bit nerve-racking (mostly because I’m a control freak), but this is something I could absolutely get used to on my well-known Indiana highways. The Mercedes also comes standard with lane departure assist and standard emergency braking which makes it feel even safer, especially if you aren’t used to driving such a big vehicle.
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Beautiful inside and out, the interior of the Mercedes AMG GLS63 makes you feel like a queen. Photo: Shannon Scott
An Interior Fit for A Queen
The first thing I noticed when I got into the Mercedes-AMG is how beautiful the steering wheel is. It has so many functions but important (to me) was how it felt in my hands and let me tell ya…it felt good.
The multi-media system had multiple functions that you can access from the touchscreen, the steering wheel, and the middle console touch pad–take your pick. The cup holders (because who doesn’t love cup holders) had this nifty feature that, with the touch of a button, would keep your drinks hot or cold. The AMG GLS63 is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is access by USB or USB-C. The wireless phone charge pad is just under the multi-media system, making it easy to put your phone down and let it charge with no worries.
The black Nappa leather with diamond stitching made the interior look and feel luxurious. The more I explored, the more luxury details I found. Not only does this AMG provide you with massaging seats (great to have while driving), there are mood settings that bring a certain ambiance to whatever you are feeling that day — including a roaring fireplace, the sounds of the ocean, or a tranquil rain storm.
Because the Mercedes gives you power everything, accessing the third row was as simple as touching a button. Both the second and third row fold flat to allow for plenty of space for cargo should you need it. Easy accessibility is only second to the fact that two grown adult women could sit back there with plenty of legroom.
The panoramic sunroof made the California sunshine that much better, especially knowing it was 32 degrees in Indiana. Speaking of 32 degrees, it was also equipped with the Warmth and Comfort Package that includes heated armrests in the front and the center row as well as heated door panels. Just in case your arms get chilly.
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Find you a car that makes you smile. Photo: Shannon Scott
Is It Expensive? Yes. But Maybe You Should Treat Yourself
The base price of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 is $133,150. The model featured here, with all the upgrades, bells, whistles, and wheels, comes in at a whopping $150,445.00. Yes. I know. That’s a lot of money for a car, but you know what they say: You get what you pay for. If you need the room, have the money, and enjoy speed and luxury – you won’t be sorry.
Disclosure: Mercedes-Benz provided this SUV for our test drive. All opinions are my own.