Mercedes Benz hits back hard with AMG GLC63
Mercedes has flexed its muscle in the SUV segment once again, although this time it’s something that nobody expected; a V8 medium-sized SUV.
This is the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 AMG 4Matic+ and the GLC63 Coupe AMG 4MATIC+; unsettling on the tongue but very easy on the eye. The fire-breathing family cars from Affalterbach will do battle with the likes of the Porsche Macan Turbo and BMW X4 M40i, thanks to the angry twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine that lurks under the hood.
Even better news for the AMG enthusiast is that the model range is further divided into standard AMG and top-of-the-range AMG ‘S’ models, expertly tuned for 350kW/650Nm and 375kW/700Nm respectively. To put that into perspective for you, the V6 in the Porsche Macan Turbo (with the optional Performance Package) does 323kW/700Nm and the straight-six in the BMW X4 M40i only makes a mere 265kW/465Nm.
The engine may be shared with the C63 AMG, but a lot of the GLC63 is actually borrowed from the potent E63 AMG. The gearbox, for example, is a variant of the E63’s 9-speed transmission, as well as the latest version of 4Matic+, which is currently only available in the AMG line. All of this new technology, paired to the outrageous power means that the AMG GLC63 should be quite quick off the line. Official figures are yet to be released, however insiders are hinting towards a sub 4-second 0-100km/h time. Again, for comparison, the Porsche Macan Turbo will do it in 4,4-seconds.
The GLC63 features the new vertical Panamericana grille, straight from the AMG GT-R, as well as a series of other styling elements to help distinguish it from the lesser GLC models, including AMG’s own GLC43 range. Flared wheel arches add a more aggressive element to the GLC63, while ‘V8 Turbo’ badges adorn the flanks above the optional 21” wheels. A redesigned rear bumper houses an integrated diffuser between the signature quad exhaust pipes.
The interior is just as sporty, with a flat bottom steering wheel, AMG performance seats and various fighter-jet style AMG specific controls embedded within the centre console.
An Edition 1 model will be offered to the first set of buyers with a unique combination of equipment to lure them in. This includes the popular “night pack” with gloss black details on the exterior, matte black 21” alloys and an aerodynamic spoiler. Inside there’s nappa leather, a performance steering wheel and carbon fibre trim.
