Mighty Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupe arrive ~ station of gear

The planet's oil reserves are set to come under new pressure as Mercedes-AMG unleashes the 503bhp GLC 63 twins

2017-04-04 23:00

Mercedes-AMG has rolled out a pair new performance SUVs in the shape of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupe. Both hot SUVs feature Merc’s advanced 4MATIC+ four-wheel-drive as standard and are powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Both models will make their debut at this month’s New York Motor Show, before going on sale in June. First deliveries are scheduled for September and prices have yet to be announced.

The GLC 63 is a fresh rival for the Porsche Macan Turbo, while the Coupé establishes a new segment for high-performance Coupé SUVs. Under the bonnet sits AMG’s trusty hand-built V8 bi-turbo engine, producing 469bhp and 650Nm of torque. That means the new GLC 63 pumps out 35bhp more than the most potent Macan.

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For those after more punch, however, both the GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé will be offered in more powerful S guise, which raises output to 503bhp. Regardless of spec, power is delivered to the 4MATIC+ system via AMG’s new Speedshift nine-speed automatic gearbox.

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Mercedes has yet to reveal just how fast from 0-62mph the GLC 63 is, but don’t be surprised to see a figure around the four second mark. As ever, top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. The 4MATIC+ four-wheel-drive set-up features the same variable torque distribution as seen on the new AMG E 63.

Torque can be split between the front and rear axle to optimise traction in certain driving conditions, but it’s heavily rear biased – the rear wheels are permanently driven, and in most circumstances the GLC 63 is rear-wheel-drive. It’s possible for the driver to influence the characteristics of the car though, with a range of selectable driving modes. Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual settings modify engine response, suspension set-up, gear shift times, the steering and traction control settings and also the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system.

The GLC 63 stands out compared to the rest of the GLC range with several bold styling tweaks. At the front is a new grille similar to the AMG GT, with thick, chromed vertical slats, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, plus new side skirts, a new spoiler lip and 20-inch alloys. A performance sports exhaust also comes as standard.

Let us know what you think of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 in the comments section below...

James Brodie

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