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The latest-generation Mercedes GLC once again spawns two AMG performance variants, but this time they both follow the AMG C-Class sedan in switching to four-cylinder engines. While the smaller-displacement engines pack fewer cylinders than before, the powertrains found in both the GLC43 and GLC63 still manage to one-up their precedessors in terms of power.
The AMG GLC43 ditches its 3.0 liter V6 in favor of a turbocharged 2.0 liter inline-four, and while the new engine does produce more horsepower than the V6 did, it also sees a downgrade in torque. In total, it makes 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, and features an electronically-assisted turbocharger and a 48-volt mild hybrid system inspired by F1. Mercedes says the new F1 tech results in more responsiveness, and claims that the GLC43 can reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Additionally, the SUV's belt-driven starter generator can add 13 more horsepower to its original claim at lower speeds.
The GLC43 gets sportier looks than standard GLC models with an AMG-exclusive vertically-slatted grille, 20-inch wheels with staggered tire widths, a rear diffuser, and a dual exhaust system. A nine-speed gearbox sends power to all four wheels, though the system is tuned to be rear-biased. The GLC43 also includes rear-wheel steering, adaptive dampers, and larger brakes compared to the pedestrian GLC. The interior features AMG badging, as well as a unique steering wheel with aluminum paddle shifters, while options include Nappa leather upholstery, sports seats, and a data-logger that records lap times.
Moving past the GLC43 brings us to the new AMG GLC63 E Performance, which is where things get serious. The twin-turbo V8 that powered the previous GLC63 has been replaced by a much smaller turbocharged 2.0 liter inline-four, which alone makes 469 horsepower. While this number already beats the less powerful GLC43, it isn't enough for Mercedes-AMG, which bolted on a rear-mounted electric motor that produces an extra 201 horsepower. It works through a two-speed transmission (the inline-four engine uses a nine-speed wet-clutch) and distributes power to the rear wheels through an electronic limited-slip differential. In total, this complex powertrain produces a whopping 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, which blows away the previous model's 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLC63 can hit 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, until it reaches an electronically-limited top speed of 171 mph.
The suspension utilizes an unequal-length control arm setup for each corner, and the steel springs are accompanied by adaptive dampers. When thrashing the GLC63 around, body control is kept in check with active roll stabilization powered by a 48-volt electrical system. Many of of the GLC63's cosmetic and mechanical upgrades are similar to the GLC43, as both performance SUVs add larger brakes, rear-wheel steering, an AMG grille, and unique front and rear fascias. The GLC63 exclusively adds an enlarged rear diffuser, roof-mounted rear spoiler, and trapezoid-shaped exhaust tips. The interior features an AMG steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather, along with faux leather seating and numerous AMG badges. Options include sports seats and Nappa leather front seats with embossed AMG emblems on the headrests.
Mercedes says the new AMG GLC63 is capable of running on electric power alone, but it didn't provide too many details on this. When switching to full EV mode, it uses an AMG-developed 6.1-kWh battery positioned just above the rear axle where the electric motor is located. While the electric motor is positioned in the rear, it is still capable of sending power to the front wheels through its second gear to increase traction. While Mercedes didn't provide a range estimate, the GLC63 comes with a 2.7-kW onboard AC charger for when battery power runs low.
As for pricing and availability, the milder GLC43 will arrive as dealers in early 2024, likely with a price tag that exceeds $60,000. Meanwhile, the more hardcore GLC63 won't make it to dealer lots until the 2025 model year. With all of the extra equipment and complicated powertrain bits it adds, pricing will probably begin at over $80,000.
Which high-powered Mercedes GLC would you choose?
Image Credits: Mercedes-AMG
Revealed
Jul 18, 2023
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Mercedes-AMG Reveals GLC43 And GLC63 SUVs With Four-Cylinder Power
The more powerful GLC63 adds a plug-in hybrid setup making 671 horsepower.
The latest-generation Mercedes GLC once again spawns two AMG performance variants, but this time they both follow the AMG C-Class sedan in switching to four-cylinder engines. While the smaller-displacement engines pack fewer cylinders than before, the powertrains found in both the GLC43 and GLC63 still manage to one-up their precedessors in terms of power.
The AMG GLC43 ditches its 3.0 liter V6 in favor of a turbocharged 2.0 liter inline-four, and while the new engine does produce more horsepower than the V6 did, it also sees a downgrade in torque. In total, it makes 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, and features an electronically-assisted turbocharger and a 48-volt mild hybrid system inspired by F1. Mercedes says the new F1 tech results in more responsiveness, and claims that the GLC43 can reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Additionally, the SUV's belt-driven starter generator can add 13 more horsepower to its original claim at lower speeds.
The GLC43 gets sportier looks than standard GLC models with an AMG-exclusive vertically-slatted grille, 20-inch wheels with staggered tire widths, a rear diffuser, and a dual exhaust system. A nine-speed gearbox sends power to all four wheels, though the system is tuned to be rear-biased. The GLC43 also includes rear-wheel steering, adaptive dampers, and larger brakes compared to the pedestrian GLC. The interior features AMG badging, as well as a unique steering wheel with aluminum paddle shifters, while options include Nappa leather upholstery, sports seats, and a data-logger that records lap times.
Moving past the GLC43 brings us to the new AMG GLC63 E Performance, which is where things get serious. The twin-turbo V8 that powered the previous GLC63 has been replaced by a much smaller turbocharged 2.0 liter inline-four, which alone makes 469 horsepower. While this number already beats the less powerful GLC43, it isn't enough for Mercedes-AMG, which bolted on a rear-mounted electric motor that produces an extra 201 horsepower. It works through a two-speed transmission (the inline-four engine uses a nine-speed wet-clutch) and distributes power to the rear wheels through an electronic limited-slip differential. In total, this complex powertrain produces a whopping 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, which blows away the previous model's 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLC63 can hit 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, until it reaches an electronically-limited top speed of 171 mph.
The suspension utilizes an unequal-length control arm setup for each corner, and the steel springs are accompanied by adaptive dampers. When thrashing the GLC63 around, body control is kept in check with active roll stabilization powered by a 48-volt electrical system. Many of of the GLC63's cosmetic and mechanical upgrades are similar to the GLC43, as both performance SUVs add larger brakes, rear-wheel steering, an AMG grille, and unique front and rear fascias. The GLC63 exclusively adds an enlarged rear diffuser, roof-mounted rear spoiler, and trapezoid-shaped exhaust tips. The interior features an AMG steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather, along with faux leather seating and numerous AMG badges. Options include sports seats and Nappa leather front seats with embossed AMG emblems on the headrests.
Mercedes says the new AMG GLC63 is capable of running on electric power alone, but it didn't provide too many details on this. When switching to full EV mode, it uses an AMG-developed 6.1-kWh battery positioned just above the rear axle where the electric motor is located. While the electric motor is positioned in the rear, it is still capable of sending power to the front wheels through its second gear to increase traction. While Mercedes didn't provide a range estimate, the GLC63 comes with a 2.7-kW onboard AC charger for when battery power runs low.
As for pricing and availability, the milder GLC43 will arrive as dealers in early 2024, likely with a price tag that exceeds $60,000. Meanwhile, the more hardcore GLC63 won't make it to dealer lots until the 2025 model year. With all of the extra equipment and complicated powertrain bits it adds, pricing will probably begin at over $80,000.
Which high-powered Mercedes GLC would you choose?
Image Credits: Mercedes-AMG
