Mercedes-AMG Rebuilds Its V8 From the Inside Out

In Affalterbach, every AMG engine is still assembled by a single technician, following the principle of “One man, one engine.” This philosophy now applies to the M177 EVO, a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo that has been fundamentally re-engineered to survive. The first models to receive it are the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and GLS 63 4MATIC+.

The update is more than a facelift. It is a calculated effort to preserve the V8 in an era of tightening global regulations. Michael Schiebe, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG, is direct about the engine’s role. “Our V8 is central to our performance-DNA,” he states. “With the new generation M177 EVO, we have fundamentally revised the unit and secured its presence in our portfolio for the long term.”

The M177 EVO Engine

The engineering work focused on compliance without compromise. The M177 EVO produces 450 kW (612 PS) and 850 Nm of torque, numbers identical to its predecessor. The key changes are internal. A new flat-plane crankshaft reduces rotating mass for a sharper response. The intake camshaft is modified, the injection system is optimized, and a new exhaust aftertreatment system, including a worldwide standard particle filter, is fitted to meet current emissions standards.

This V8 is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) 2.0 adds a temporary boost of 17 kW (23 PS) and 205 Nm of torque. It also handles energy recuperation and allows for smoother engine restarts, contributing to both performance and efficiency.

The result is a GLE 63 S that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. The larger GLS 63 4MATIC+ does the same in 4.2 seconds. Both models are limited to a top speed of 280 km/h. The sound is managed by a new AMG Performance exhaust system with adjustable flaps, allowing the driver to select a sound profile from subtle in “Comfort” mode to a more dynamic character in “Sport+”.

Control and Capability

Managing this power is a suite of AMG-specific chassis technologies. The AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension and adaptive damping continuously adjust to the road. For more aggressive driving, the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL system uses electromechanical stabilizers on both axles to counteract body roll in corners, with sensors analyzing conditions up to 1,000 times per second.

Traction is handled by the permanent AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, paired with an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential. The system intelligently distributes torque to the wheel with the most grip, reducing slip without brake intervention. Drive shafts on both axles were developed specifically to handle the M177 EVO’s output.

The system’s versatility extends to off-road use. In the “Trail” driving mode, the suspension raises the vehicle by 55 millimeters. The ride height can also be lifted by 20 millimeters with a button for clearing ramps or poor roads. Conversely, in “Sport” and “Sport+” modes, the body lowers by 10 millimeters to reduce drag and improve stability. According to Schiebe, the goal was an engine that “impresses with its agile response, high performance and pronounced revving ability – while at the same time meeting the increasingly demanding regulations worldwide.”

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