2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63: Sizable substance

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 occupies an odd space in the automotive market. 

The three-row crossover has a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, pushing out 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.

To get that kind of power from a BMW or Porsche crossover, you have to sacrifice a row of seating.

Three-row competitors like the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade don't come close to touching the Merc's power. 

But it's more than just brute force. Also on hand are tons of driver's aids like route-based adaptive cruise control that can automatically slow down for curves, toll booths and speed zones.

The all-wheel-drive system can throw 100% of the torque to the rear wheels and the massive 285/40/ZR23 front, 325/35/ZR23 rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires provide grip for days. 

As you'd expect, the AMG GLS63 is incredibly spacious, too, with 17.4 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 48.7 cubes behind the second row and 84.7 cubes when both rows are folded.

The MBUX system is fairly easy to use and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. An augmented reality navigation system uses the forward-facing camera to show exactly where to turn.

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 starts at $134,090 including $995 for delivery, but the tester pictured here has all kinds of options and comes out to $149,115.

Keep scrolling for more photos of this strapping SUV.