For the 2024 model year, Mercedes-AMG is upgrading the performance-oriented GLS 63 three-row SUV by adding to its generous list of standard equipment. If you think a performance-oriented three-row SUV is sort of a silly idea, well, you probably haven’t driven a GLS 63. But co-host Chris Teague has, and he reports on all the details of his weeklong stint in the flagship of the AMG SUV family.

The 2024 GLS 63 gets new appearance items inside and out — a new rear light signature and a Nappa leather-cover instrument panel among the new features. It also has been endowed with a newly standard panoramic sliding sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive high-beam headlights, selectable AMG Performance exhaust system, Burmester surround sound system, 360-degree surround view system and blind spot assist.

Of course, the heart of the GLS 63 is under the hood, where lies the handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo engine that produces 603 horsepower. For use in the big SUV, it has been systematically electrified with a 48-volt auxiliary on-board electrical system and integrated starter generator. The result of this mild-hybrid system is even smoother and more powerful drivability. Chris Teague will tell you the rest in this episode.

While Teague was testing the $150,000+ AMG GLS 63, Host Jack Nerad was behind the wheel of the 2024 Mazda Mazda 3 Turbo. While it seems the co-host got the best of it, Nerad found there was nothing shabby about the performance or equipment of the $36,000 Mazda3. In an ocean of compact cars, the hatchback stands out for its premium looks, exquisite interior, and fun-to-drive persona. No, its 256 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel-drive give it a verve that few compacts can match. And we’ll have other thoughts coming up in this episode.

In this week’s news segment, Stellantis, the owners of the Jeep, RAM Truck, Dodge, and Chrysler brands, is trying to stave off rumors that it will merge with France-based Renault. We’ll tell you more about that and its implications coming up.

Ford is facing disruptions to the product of its F-150 and F-150 Lightning pickup trucks, which could cost you if you’re seeking a new Ford truck. And while Toyota has not been bullish about electric vehicles, it has just announced a giant new EV production facility to be based in Kentucky. We’ll have more on both stories.

We are also sad to report the imminent demise of yet another legendary vehicle. We’ll tell you what it is and when it goes away in this week’s show.

This week, our special guest is Katelyn Salzman, Lexus expert on the all-new Lexus GX SUV. Host Jack Nerad recently had a chance to drive the GX and then sat down with her to discuss the details of what is a more exciting vehicle than ever before. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation.

All that and more are coming up on America on the Road.

America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, YourTestDriver.com, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com