German powerhouse: Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe (pictures)

Mercedes-Benz's new GLE-class gets the AMG treatment, combining a powerful engine with active handling technology designed to keep this heavy SUV-coupe thing  steady in the turns.

AMG styling cues, such as the double-louver on the grille, mark the GLE63 S Coupe as a performance-oriented vehicle.

The 5.5-liter V-8 uses direct injection, spraying fuel into each cylinder, while each bank of four cylinders gets its own turbocharger. Output comes in at 577 horsepower.

The funky body style has SUV proportions under a graceful roofline. The slant back allows for more of a hatchback than a liftgate.

22-inch wheels come standard, and AMG fits the GLE63 S Coupe with a mixed set of tires, 285/40s at the front and super-wide 325/35s on the rears.

An active suspension and 4Matic all-wheel-drive should make the GLE63 AMG S Coupe handle like a much smaller car.

The cabin of the GLE63 S Coupe gains some AMG styling cues, such as carbon fiber trim.

Mercedes-Benz's Sport Direct Steer, an electric power steering system, allows for a smaller diameter steering wheel.

The dial on the right selects the drive modes, while the handle on the left incorporates a touchpad for infotainment system operation.

An available Bang & Olufsen premium audio system includes these A pillar-mounted acoustic lenses.

Indentations in the headliner allow for reasonable rear headroom.