In the opulent universe of luxury SUVs, where the confluence of state-of-the-art technology, lavish comforts, and trailblazing machinery sets the gold standard, the Lamborghini Urus S and Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S inevitably rise above the fray. These automotive titans have carved out a dominant space in the market, captivating car enthusiasts worldwide. As we delve deeper into their lineage, powertrains, and commonalities, the prowess of these behemoths unfolds.
Lamborghini, traditionally celebrated for its thunderous supercars, made headlines in 2018 with the Urus. Though it wasn’t their maiden voyage into the SUV domain – with the LM002 from the 1980s holding that honor – the Urus was a revelation. It embodied modern luxury, brilliantly melding Lamborghini’s legendary performance ethos with the utility and elegance of a top-tier SUV. For 2023, Lamborghini introduces a subtle update. The base model is now named the Lamborghini Urus S, and a Performante version was also added to the lineup.
Mercedes-Benz, meanwhile, is no stranger to the SUV arena. Yet, unveiling the AMG-enhanced GLE in its 63 and 63 S avatars was a game-changer. Launched as a distinctive AMG model in 2015, it was a resounding response to the growing appetite for performance-laden luxury SUVs, capitalizing on AMG’s illustrious racing lineage and Mercedes’ unparalleled luxury craftsmanship.
This piece contrasts the two SUVs based on their design, performance, ride and handling quality, cabin quality etc.
2023 Lamborghini Urus S Vs Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S: DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
Quick summary: The Lamborghini Urus S is characterized by its audacious hexagonal grille and Y-shaped LED headlamps, elements reflective of Lamborghini’s iconic design language. Its front bumper boasts large air intakes, which, together with the overall angular aesthetics, scream aggression. Along the sides, the Urus S can sport wheels up to a massive 23 inches and has a dynamic, sloping roofline emphasizing its sporty nature. The rear design continues the Y-shape theme in its tail lamps, paired with a bold bumper featuring twin dual-exhaust outlets.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S commands attention with its signature AMG Panamericana grille, complemented by integrated angular LED headlamps. While featuring large intakes, the front bumper opts for black mesh detailing. Regarding wheels, the GLE 63 S offers a more conservative range, starting at 20 inches and capping at 22 inches. Its side profile prioritizes a balanced blend of athleticism and luxury, marked by subtle character lines. The rear design, highlighted by broad horizontal LED tail lamps, emphasizes the vehicle’s width and is accentuated by a prominent diffuser and quad exhaust tips.
Lamborghini Urus S
the urus sAt first glance, the Lamborghini Urus S strikes one with its wide, hexagonal grille – a design element synonymous with the brand. This broad feature serves as a commanding visual centerpiece and significantly enhances airflow to the roaring engine underneath. Narrow, Y-shaped LED headlamps, reminiscent of its supercar siblings, give the Urus a menacing glare.
The front bumper, characterized by large air intakes, aids aerodynamics and cooling, encapsulating the vehicle’s aggressive, angular aesthetics. Moving to the side, the Urus S showcases wheels ranging from a substantial 21 inches to a staggering 23 inches, one of the largest in the luxury SUV segment.
The side silhouette, marked by a sloping roofline and pronounced wheel arches, carries the dynamic, angular lines from front to rear, emphasizing its sporty DNA. At the back, Y-shaped tail lamps mirror the front design, bringing consistency to its design language. With its integrated diffuser and twin dual-exhaust outlets, the rear bumper rounds off the performance-centric visual narrative.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
the mercedes amg gl 53 sThe Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S exudes an imposing presence with its signature AMG Panamericana grille adorned with vertical chrome slats and the iconic central Mercedes star. This is flanked by angular headlamps equipped with cutting-edge Multibeam LED technology, seamlessly integrating with the grille, creating a sense of width and dominance. Below, the bumper houses expansive air intakes, with black mesh detailing that hints at the powerful engine beneath and serves to optimize aerodynamics. Along its side, the AMG GLE 63, which can be adorned with wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches, exhibits a perfect blend of athleticism and luxury
Character lines subtly accentuate its length, emphasizing a uniquely Mercedes poise. The rear doesn’t disappoint either; wide, horizontal LED tail lamps extend towards the SUV’s broad shoulders, while a pronounced diffuser and quad exhaust tips underline its sporty pedigree.
2023 Lamborghini Urus S Vs Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S: ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
Quick summary: The Lamborghini Urus S is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbocharged engine derived from Audi, delivering a potent 657 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This Italian powerhouse channels its energy through a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system designed for dynamic handling with the capability to shift torque to the front when necessary.
Conversely, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S also employs a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine. However, its output varies: the standard model produces 563 horsepower, while the ‘S’ variant ramps it up to 603. The German machine employs its “AMG Performance 4MATIC+” all-wheel-drive system, which ensures balanced power distribution but can also adopt a rear-centric bias during high-performance drives.
Lamborghini Urus S
the urus in actionThe heart and soul of the Lamborghini Urus S is its drivetrain. Housing a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine, the Urus S borrows this robust configuration from its cousin within the Volkswagen Group – Audi. However, Lamborghini ensures it’s unmistakably their creation with a series of unique calibrations and enhancements. The engine is twin-turbocharged, allowing for rapid response and impressive power delivery. When it comes to sheer numbers, the Urus S is no slouch. It churns out a blistering 657 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, which effortlessly positions it at the apex of the performance SUV hierarchy.
Furthermore, all that power is transferred to the road by the eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic transmission. The Urus S employs an all-wheel-drive system to harness this immense power and ensure optimal traction across varied terrains. The system is rear-biased, ensuring that characteristic Lamborghini driving feel, but it can direct torque to the front wheels when needed, providing both dynamic handling and stability.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
Diving into the realm of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, the precision and pedigree of German engineering become evident. The SUV boasts a 4.0-liter V8 engine, which, much like the Urus S, is also twin-turbocharged. The vehicle comes standard with a 48V mild-hybrid EQ Boost starter generator. This not only enhances performance by adding an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque but also seamlessly bridges torque disparities, eradicates turbo lag, refines the stop-start mechanism, and bolsters initial acceleration response.
Mercedes brings its AMG heritage into play, crafting an engine that’s robust and refined. Power figures for the GLE 63 are nothing short of impressive. The standard variant delivers around 563 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, but opt for the ‘S’ model, and you get a bumped-up 603 horsepower. Torque figures remain constant at 627 lb-ft, ensuring rapid acceleration and ample power throughout the rev range.
Mercedes understands the importance of effective power delivery, and, as such, the GLE 63 S comes equipped with an AMG Speedshift TCT nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The “AMG Performance 4MATIC+” balances power distribution between the front and rear axles. While it ensures grip and stability, it also provides flexibility for spirited driving, allowing for a more rear-biased power distribution when pushing the SUV to its limits.
Specification
| Specification | Lamborghini Urus S | Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain Details | 4.0 L V8 Twin-Turbocharged | 4.0 L V8 Twin-Turbo |
| Power | 657 hp (478 kW) | 603 hp (450 kW) |
| Torque | 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) | 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Details | All-wheel drive (AWD) | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
2023 Lamborghini Urus S Vs Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S: HANDLING AND RIDE COMFORT
Quick summary: Distinguishing the Lamborghini Urus S from the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S reveals each brand’s specific engineering and design choices. First, while both vehicles employ adaptive air suspensions, the Urus S complements this with active roll controls, targeting a balance between day-to-day commuting and high-spirited driving. In contrast, the GLE 63 S’s AMG RIDE CONTROL+ system primarily focuses on adapting to varied terrains and reducing body roll, especially during cornering. Brake systems also differ: the Urus S employs carbon ceramic brakes, known for their significant size and high performance, while the GLE 63 S opts for ventilated and perforated disc brakes, usually paired with 6-piston calipers upfront. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive systems display variances.
Though derived from the Volkswagen Group, the Urus S’s system has been tailored by Lamborghini to meet its high-performance ethos. On the other hand, the GLE 63 S features the AMG Performance 4MATIC+, which emphasizes a variable torque distribution between its wheels depending on driving scenarios. These differences underline each brand’s unique approaches to marrying performance with practicality in the SUV segment.
Lamborghini Urus S
The Lamborghini Urus S brings a blend of pros and cons in terms of how it maneuvers. On the upside, its cutting-edge suspension blends adaptive air features with active roll controls. This means you get a smooth ride on regular roads, yet it responds exceptionally well during more aggressive drives, whether winding paths or racetracks. Furthermore, its large, high-performance tires give it a surprising grip for a vehicle of its size, enabling it to navigate sharp bends with notable finesse. Yet, it’s not all rosy. The Urus s’s bulk and weight make it less nimble when put side by side with traditional Lamborghini supercars. Although it ranks among the top athletic SUVs, it doesn’t parallel the prowess of its more streamlined counterparts. Plus, while powerful, the high-performance carbon ceramic brakes can be overly responsive in typical driving, necessitating a light foot to prevent sudden stops.
Digging deeper into its specs, the Urus S has hefty carbon ceramic brakes; the front discs typically span around 440 mm (17.3 inches) to guarantee top-notch braking. As touched upon, its suspension system seamlessly merges adaptive air suspension with active roll stabilization, ensuring both ride comfort and peak performance.
An added advantage is Lamborghini’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Although it borrows from Volkswagen Group’s tech, Lamborghini’s experts have fine-tuned it to match their high-performance standards. In summary, while the Lamborghini Urus S showcases a harmony of luxury and power, its SUV design and considerable weight, despite its high-tech features, play a role in its maneuvering traits.
Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S
The Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S offers a combination of handling and ride comfort that is expected from vehicles in its segment. Its AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension is designed to respond to road conditions and provide stability across varied terrains. When combined with the vehicle’s structural design and weight distribution, this system is intended to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system in the GLE 63 S includes ventilated and perforated disc brakes, often paired with 6-piston fixed calipers at the front. This setup is expected to provide the necessary stopping power for a vehicle of size and power.
The SUV has the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which variably divides torque between the front and rear wheels. This system is designed to adjust power delivery based on driving conditions. However, the real-world experience might vary based on numerous factors like road conditions, driving style, and vehicle load. Overall, the GLE 63 S brings a suite of features meant to balance performance and comfort, but as with all vehicles, individual experiences may vary based on personal preferences and usage conditions.
2023 Lamborghini Urus S Vs Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S: Interior
Quick Summary: The differences between the 2023 Lamborghini Urus Sand and the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S are subtle yet distinct in the plush world of luxury SUVs. While both vehicles seat five, the Urus S offers an exclusive four-seat configuration with individual rear captain’s chairs, a luxury not found in the GLE 63 S. On the infotainment front, the Urus S features the dual touchscreen Lamborghini Infotainment System III, contrasting the GLE 63 S’s MBUX system that extends into a unified dual wide-screen setup. Additionally, the GLE 63 S integrates a voice command feature through its “Hey Mercedes” function, providing an extra layer of user interaction. And while both SUVs offer ample boot space for any grand tour or excursion, the GLE 63 S slightly edges out the Urus S, offering 630 liters compared to the Urus’s 616 liters. Each SUV, in its own right, provides a unique blend of luxury and functionality, but these nuanced differences might sway the discerning buyer in one direction or the other.
Lamborghini Urus S
a custom urus interiorIn the elite arena of luxury SUVs, the 2023 Lamborghini Urus S makes a statement with its roaring performance and its lavish interior detailing. Venturing inside the Urus S is akin to embarking on a journey through meticulously crafted opulence. The seating, available in five-passenger and an exclusive four-seat configuration with rear captain’s chairs, showcases the best Italian craftsmanship. Finest Italian leather, soft-touch Alcantara, and elegant trims grace every inch, with sports seats that balance firm grip during exhilarating drives and plush comfort for the long haul.
Technologically, the Lamborghini Infotainment System III (LIS III) stands out, served on a sophisticated dual touchscreen setup. The upper screen is dedicated to entertainment and navigation, while the lower provides intuitive controls for climate and other creature comforts. This modern marvel seamlessly integrates Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, emphasizing Lamborghini’s commitment to pairing its historic craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. And when it comes to practicality, the Urus S is balanced. It offers a generous 616 liters of boot space, ensuring that its occupants don’t have to compromise on luggage for their adventures.
Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S
mercedes amg gle 63 s interiorThe 2023 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S epitomizes the essence of German engineering and luxury. Stepping into its cabin is an immersion into a sanctuary of meticulous design, where plush Nappa leather meets high-gloss wood trims, and precision stitching articulates the brand’s legendary attention to detail. Designed to seat five, the GLE 63Â is spacious, ensuring each passenger revels in the luxury Mercedes-Benz is globally renowned for.
The adaptive sport seats, with many comfort features including heating, ventilation, and massage functions, contour to the occupant, promising unparalleled seating comfort. Technologically, the GLE 63 S is a beacon. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, spread across a vast dual wide-screen setup, is more than just an interface; it’s an experience. Blending the digital instrument cluster with the primary infotainment display offers users a cohesive digital environment. The support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is a given, but the “Hey Mercedes” voice command takes interaction to a new level, enabling effortless command execution. And for those who seek the perfect blend of luxury and practicality, the GLE 63 S delivers a slightly superior 630 liters of boot space, making it a true luxury SUV in every sense.
Price
In the U.S., the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S offers a price tag in the ballpark of $120,000, situating it firmly within the upscale SUV category but still being more cost-effective than the Lamborghini Urus S. Depending on the specific customizations and extras chosen, the final cost of the Mercedes can fluctuate. Conversely, the starting price for the Lamborghini Urus S in the U.S. hovers between $220,000 and $230,000, cementing its position as a top-tier luxury SUV with performance levels mirroring that of supercars. Personalized customizations and added features can significantly elevate the Urus S’s price, ranking it among the most expensive SUVs.
Conclusion
While the Lamborghini Urus S and the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S are titans in the luxury SUV segment, each has a unique allure. With its blend of Lamborghini’s sporty DNA and contemporary luxury, the Urus S appeals to those craving performance packaged in opulence. The GLE 63 S, on the other hand, is a testament to Mercedes’ legacy of combining luxury, technological prowess, and German engineering into one formidable package. Potential buyers will inevitably be torn between these two behemoths, and the choice will boil down to personal preference and brand allegiance.
In the bustling segment of luxury SUVs, choosing between the 2023 Lamborghini Urus S and the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S poses a delightful problem for the affluent consumer. For many, the decision transcends mere performance specs and dives into brand allegiance, individual aesthetics, and lifestyle compatibility. A Lamborghini enthusiast, for instance, might be drawn to the Urus S for its audacious design and the thrill of owning something that marries Lamborghini’s racetrack pedigree with day-to-day practicality.
On the flip side, a long-time patron of Mercedes might be enamored with the GLE 63 S, seeing it as the zenith of German engineering, blending AMG’s high-performance heritage with Mercedes’ famed luxury. Furthermore, the tech-savvy might lean towards the Mercedes for its advanced MBUX system and voice-command features, while those valuing exclusivity might appreciate the Urus S’ s four-seat configuration option. At this level of luxury, the decision often pivots on personal brand experiences, emotional connections, and the nuanced differences that align most closely with the buyer’s vision of grandeur.
