Meet the GLC 63, the smallest Mercedes SUV to get a stonking V8 engine

Mercedes has never knowingly left a niche unplugged, which is why it’s given us this, the GLC 63 AMG. In both SUV and Coupe versions…

Looks like a serious piece of kit, no? More so than the GLC 43, certainly. In principle it’s a scaled-up version of the C63 on which it’s based. It uses the same 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 with 469bhp and 479lb ft, or 503bhp and 516lb ft in the GLC 63 AMG S, but adds rear-biased all-wheel drive (though Merc says the torque distribution is “fully variable”) and the nine-speed wet-clutch automatic gearbox from the E63.

The top speed is limited to 155mph, but the 0-62mph time hasn’t been released. Special three-chamber air suspension promises to “combine exemplary driving dynamics with excellent road-roar and tyre vibration characteristics”.

Opt for the more powerful S and you also get five drive modes (over the standard car’s four), namely Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race. These govern the throttle response, steering, gearbox and so on. The damping is continuously variable and has three settings, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. These you can switch between regardless of the drive mode you’re in, so in theory you can have, say, the sharper throttle response of Sport+ but the softer, more UK-friendly damping of Comfort. Good.

You may at this point be wondering what the hell they’ve done to the front of it. That’s the Panamerica grille from the Mercedes AMG GT R and its derivatives. Said to symbolise the “consistently dynamic design” of the SUV and Coupe, the vertical slats, massive three-pointed star and lower air intake make for a striking thing. Out back there’s a diffuser and quad pipes – from which much noise will emanate (Performance Exhaust gives a button for on-demand burble).

As well as extra power, torque and different trim, S cars get bigger wheels with wider tyres, 30mm bigger front brakes and an electronically controlled LSD instead of the regular GLC 63’s purely mechanical one. Both the Coupe and SUV can be had as an S, should you wish.

It debuts at the New York motor show, with cars reaching customers in September. Prices are TBC, but bank on £65k, or thereabouts. Much more for the Edition 1, yellow flashes and all. Rivals? The Porsche Macan Turbo and identically powerful Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio spring to mind. As does the Jaguar F-Pace SVR, should Jaguar decide the prototypes it looks to be running around the Nürburgring are worthy. We sense a group test in the near future…

That looks ace.
Doesn’t it just? The ‘Panamerica’ grille, wider tracks with accompanying arches and 295-section rear-tyres give this GLC 63 S – believe it or not the fastest of all Merc’s SUVs – a properly bullish stance. A stance we’re entirely familiar with, given this is actually our third go. We drove one in Germany at the end of last year, then again when Merc kindly shipped one to Sweden so it could face-off against the Audi RS4 in TG’s Winter Games. And now they’ve arrived in the UK, so naturally we asked for another go. Because, ahem, reasons.

Give me some stats.
It’s a mix between C63 and E63. Like the C you can have S (503bhp and 516lb ft) or non-S versions (469bhp and 479lb ft), and you get the same nine-speed automatic gearbox. All-wheel drive comes from the E-Class. No Drift Mode, sadly, but you won’t miss it because so provoked and space/laws/bravery/skill permitting, the GLC 63 is capable of some exceptionally anti-social behaviour. We’re driving the S, which does 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds (this is a 2,010kg car, remember) and with the optional AMG Driver’s Package, will hit 174mph. Ours had ceramic brakes and many other options (the £1,000 performance exhaust is well worth having… and leaving on permanently), turning this £76,070 car into a £89,180 car.

Woah.
Quite. The non-S GLC 63 starts at a shade under £70K – more or less the same as its two arch competitors, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Porsche Macan Turbo Performance Pack. Both of those are easily optioned up into the eighties too, so don’t go thinking the Merc is super-overpriced. Its interior is fine at £70K (but struggles at near-£90K), broadly mirroring what you get in regular C-Classes and GLCs save for the superb AMG steering wheel and schporty seats. Which, incidentally, are comfortable, supportive and set just-so.

Still like how it drives?
Oh yes. Naturally the engine is the dominating force – it makes silly and excellent noises through the optional sports exhaust and delivers a turn of pace that far exceeds what is reasonable or indeed sensible for an SUV. There’s a fair bit of shunt through the transmission, but for the most part it’s smooth and responsive to flicks of the aluminium paddles, delivering a churlish whomp with every downshift.

The steering isn’t hyper-fast – it’s quite well-judged actually, with good heft, and corners/direction changes are handled with surefooted confidence and minimal roll. Grip is predictably serious, and easily/amusingly overcome if you click through into Race mode (which the non-S doesn’t get), knock the ESP back into Sport and apply liberal ammounts of throttle.

All of that you’ll have read before – what matters most this time around is how it rides Britain’s uniquely awful road surfaces. Surfaces that keep German engineers up at night, such are the peaks, troughs and potholes you’re likely to encounter on any and indeed every trip. And the news is…firm. The E63’s weak-spot – pretty much its only one – is the way it rides. An M5 is more comfortable over rough surfaces. The GLC is certainly firmer than a Macan Turbo, and it fidgets a bit when you’re going slowly, but at no point did it annoy or irritate us. It’s firm because it’s a performance car, but buy one and you won’t give it a moment’s thought.

Is it better than the Alfa?
We’ll stop short of calling it one way or the other until we can get them together. But the V8 makes a compelling case, and good as the Stelvio looks the Mercedes is undoubtedly a higher-quality product. Watch this space.

Most of the time, spy photos are taken by skilled and patient photographers that hide out near automaker proving grounds and production facilities, waiting to catch a brief glimpse and a batch of photos to share online. Although the automakers usually try to hide their new models for as long as possible, there's been a trend as of late to release official "spy photos" of camouflaged vehicles. Just take a look at the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQC electric crossover testing in Spain.

The blue camouflage wrap has the hashtag #switchtoEQ on each side. According to Mercedes, there are nearly 200 EQC prototypes built during development. The photos were taken during summer testing. Parts of Spain can reach more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. This gives the engineers the opportunity to test things like the air conditioning, battery cooling systems and charge times. In addition to Spain, Mercedes will test prototypes in Germany, Finland, Sweden, Italy, Dubai, South Africa, the U.S. and China.

The crossover itself is based on the current Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. The EQC will be the first model from the EQ sub-brand to hit the market. Expect unique front and rear styling for the EQC. We don't know specs, but look for performance and range figures to be roughly the same as the new Jaguar i-Pace and Tesla Model X.

Brabus appears to be on a roll as after unveiling amped-up versions of the Smart ForTwo Convertible and Mercedes G-Class in recent days, now it’s showing off a heavily modified GLC. The tuner from Bottrop decided to tweak the flagship 63 S version to squeeze more power bringing the compact Mercedes crossover closer to supercar levels of horsepower.

The first order of business was to install a plug & play auxiliary control module adapted for the biturbo 4.0-liter V8’s engine control unit. It increases boost pressure and reconfigures mapping for the injection and ignition. With the upgrade in place, the AMG engine develops an additional 89 horsepower (66 kilowatts) and now pumps out a meaty 591 hp (441 kW) while torque is up by 74 pound-feet (100 Newton-meters to a massive 590 lb-ft (800 Nm).

Brabus’ take on the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S needs just 3.6 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 kph) and continues to accelerate until 186 mph (300 kph) when an electronic top speed limiter is programmed to kick in. While accelerating, the soundtrack is provided by the AMG engine in conjunction with a custom stainless steel exhaust system boasting electronically controlled flaps. The latter allows the driver to effectively modify the exhaust note by making it either quieter or louder.

The tuner has also come up with a tweaked air suspension module bringing the high-performance crossover closer to the road by approximately 1.2 inches (30 millimeters). The tricked-out suspension can be complemented by custom wheels up to 22 inches in size for maximum visual effect. Numerous carbon fiber accents inside and out serve the same purpose and make the GLC 63 Sstand out furthermore.

Those willing to reach deeper into their pockets can ask Brabus to throw in its finest leather and Alcantara, along with miscellaneous accessories like aluminum pedals and stainless steel scuff plates with the tuner’s illuminated logo. Needless to say, all of the above-mentioned goodies are available for the GLC 63 S Coupe as well.

The refreshed Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class arrives offering buyers a premium crossover with a slightly different look and a whole lot more tech. The updated model debuts to the public at the Geneva Motor Show and goes on sale in Europe in the middle of the year. Americans have to wait until late 2019.

From the outside, the updated GLC-Class looks pretty familiar. The grille wears fluted inserts that add some visual texture to the vehicle's face. The lower fascia now has three, small rectangular sections at the bottom, and the corner intakes are more rectangular. LED headlights are standard, and the lamps have a smaller, more angular shape. At the back, the taillights feature rectangular lamps in them. The integrated exhausts have sharp-edged trapezoidal outline, instead of the existing more curvaceous appearance.

The GLC-Class is the latest Mercedes to gain the MBUX system that consists of a digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen in a wide bezel that spans much of the dashboard. New trim choices like Natural Grain Grey Oak and Natural Grain Walnut add a fresher look to the cabin. A revised multi-function steering wheel has new controls for using the updated infotainment system.

In the United States, buyers can select between the rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 and all-wheel-drive GLC 300 4Matic. Both of them come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 255 horsepower (190 kilowatts). A nine-speed automatic is the only gearbox choice for them.

In Europe, there are two gasoline-fueled options, and both of them use 48-volt mild-hybrid tech, which doesn't come on the American version. The base GLC 200 4Matic offers 194 horsepower (145 kW), and the GLC 300 4Matic has 255 hp (190 kW). In addition, there are three diesel choices: the GLC 200d 4Matic with 161 hp (120 kW), GLC 220d 4Matic with 192 hp (143 kW), and GLC 300d 4Matic with 241 hp (180 kW).

Mercedes also expands the GLC's range of optional equipment. Buyers can get the Dynamic Body Control adaptive dampers for a smoother ride. In addition, the Off-Road Engineering Package adds Off-Road and Off-Road+ driving modes. The Driving Assistance Package adds adaptive cruise control capable of braking to a stop, active steering assist, lane change assist, and route-based speed adaptation.

Mercedes will announce pricing for the new GLC-Class closer to launch. However, Motor1.com will get a good look at the crossover because we'll be at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

Mercedes-AMG is introducing a comprehensive range of measures in a fundamental update of its successful GLC43 4MATIC SUV and Coupé models. The AMG-specific radiator grille, the new-design lights, the expressive front apron and the broad emphasis of the rear end with its round twin tailpipe finishers add up to make these entry-level models into the world of Mercedes-AMG SUVs visibly more appealing. The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine now develops 287 kW (390 hp), in other words 17 kW (23 hp) more than before. In conjunction with the responsive AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, the rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and the AMG DYNAMICS agility control system, it has thus been possible to enhance the driving experience, as well as the car's agility, still further. The latest version of the MBUX infotainment system, with AMG-specific functions and displays, introduces an innovative control concept that adds to the vehicle's feasibility for everyday use. This is further enhanced by the exceptional amount of space provided for passengers and luggage, as well as by a comprehensive range of safety features.

"The new GLC43 4MATIC SUV and Coupé in their latest guises also feature the AMG-specific radiator grille, identifying them straight away as fully-fledged members of our diverse and highly successful SUV family. This mid-size performance SUV combines new, expressive design features with enhanced performance, the innovative MBUX infotainment system and absolute viability in everyday use. And, of course, its exceptional agility and sporty driving dynamics mean that we are able to meet our brand promise of "Driving Performance" in this segment, too", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

It used to be that if you wanted a Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S—the top-of-the-line GLC model—you'd have to settle for the strange, swoopy-roofed, GLC Coupe-thing. No, it doesn't matter to Mercedes that you cannot use "coupe" to describe a four-door SUV. Yes, I will keep yelling about this until I run out of breath. But my woes have just lessened somewhat thanks to the new, 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S SUV.

At the heart of the new SUV you'll find AMG's twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, good for a claimed 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It uses a nine-speed automatic transmission and stuff like air suspension, adaptive damping, and a performance exhaust system come as standard. Inside, you also get Mercedes' slick MBUX infotainment system.

Seeing as the GLC is Mercedes' best-selling model, giving consumers another more traditional SUV-shaped SUV option makes sense. Clearly, AMG buyers demanded a non-coupe version of the GLC 63 S, as Mercedes noted as such in its press release. Introducing the new GLC 63 S SUV is the automaker complying with the market. The model itself is new to the United States. It is not a replacement for the GLC 63 S Coupe, but rather an addition.

The GLC-Class was introduced in 2015 as a five-seater SUV to replace the blocky but attractive GLK. In Mercedes-speak, it is the SUV equivalent of a C-Class. After a facelift for the 2020 model year, the entire GLC family now includes the GLC 300, GLC 300 4Matic, GLC 350e plug-in hybrid (this one is mysterious because you can see it listed on Mercedes' media page, but when you Google it and click on the top result, you get redirected to this broken page), AMG GLC 43, AMG GLC 63, and AMG GLC 63 S SUVs, as well as the GLC 300 4Matic, AMG GLC 43, AMG GLC 63, and AMG GLC 63 S Coupes. Phew!

Mercedes estimates the new SUV's zero-to-60 sprint to happen in just 3.6 seconds and its electronically limited top speed to be 174 mph. No official pricing was announced at this time, however, you can expect deliveries to start during Q4 of this year.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC compact crossover, due in U.S. showrooms sometime in 2023, will be a little bit longer, a little bit larger inside, and a little bit more luxurious all over.

The CUV shares its platform and drivetrains with the C-Class sedans. At launch it will come with your choice of rear-wheel drive or Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive, powered by a hybridized version of the C-Class’ 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic. At some point after launch you will be able to get a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and even an AMG version.

The overall length grows by 2.36 inches over the current GLC, the crossover’s height drops, barely, by 0.16 inch, while wheelbase goes up 0.6 inch. That means an interior that Mercedes promises offers “modern, sporty luxury.” Cues from the cabin can be traced to the all-new interior of the mighty S-Class, including the cascading infotainment screen flowing from the dash to the center console. The vents and interior trim are likewise S-Class-like, though Mercedes calls them “reminiscent of engine nacelles on an aircraft.” Use your imagination.

At the center of the show is a big 11.9-inch high-resolution screen that serves as the interface for the new second-generation Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment interface. The display can be set to five modes: Classic, which will be familiar to previous Mercedes owners; Sport with a red background; Understated, just the facts; Assistance, which prioritizes traffic and other helpful driving info; and a new Off-Road mode that tells you gradients, inclination, compass, and steering angle. The latter even uses onboard cameras to provide a “transparent hood” mode in the unlikely event that a GLC owner tries to go rock crawling.

Before, you can summon MBUX’s powers by simply pressing the voice-recognition button and saying, “Hey Mercedes,” but now you can create your own categories of infotainment such as business, sports, or culture, which will then be fed to you via the optional 710-watt Burmester 3D surround-sound system with 15 speakers.Through the steering wheel you can see the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with configurable instrument modes.

One item of tech glaringly absent is any mention of Mercedes' vaunted new Level-3 drive system known as Drive Pilot Level 3. The new GLC will get only a Level 2 version of the system, which requires you to keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel. Pity. Nonetheless, you’ll be coddled in what Mercedes calls, “avante-garde seats” designed with “layers and contoured surfaces.”

The whole thing is powered by the C-Class’ new mild hybrid 2.0-liter gasoline-fed four with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator. The two systems working together “ensure excellent power delivery,” Mercedes says, anticipating a 0-60-mph sprint of 6.2 seconds in either rear-wheel-drive or 4Matic AWD configurations. The 48-volt electrical system enables functions such as "gliding," wherein the drivetrain essentially disconnects and lets momentum carry the car to save gas and electrons, “boost” for those 0-60 launches, or “recuperation” when decelerating. Mercedes says the integrated starter generator offers seamless transitions from coasting with the engine shut off, or just waiting at a stop light with the engine shut off, to engine start.

“The start/stop function is almost imperceptible to the driver,” Mercedes promises, “As is the transition from gliding with the engine stationary to powerful propulsion with engine power. When idling, the intelligent interaction between the ISG and the combustion engine ensures outstandingly smooth running.”

While EPA mileage estimates are still a long ways off, most likely being announced just before the GLC enters showrooms next year, on a recent drive of the very similar C-Class we were able to get 35.7 mpg.

It all rides on a “dynamically designed suspension system”—a new four-link front setup and a multi-link independent rear mounted to a subframe.

Look for pricing closer to launch next year, but the current GLC starts at just under $50,000.

More power, more equipment, more driving pleasure: The new Mercedes-AMG GLC replaces its highly successful predecessor with a host of innovations. The performance SUV is available in two performance levels and trim levels: as the entry-level model GLC43 4MATIC and as the first performance hybrid SUV GLC63 S E PERFORMANCE.

"The Mercedes-AMG GLC SUV is an absolute success with our customers. Our two versions with different characters for the sporty-urban lifestyle are superior all-rounders and precisely tailored to individual customer wishes. With the E PERFORMANCE drive in the GLC63 S, we are also launching the first performance hybrid SUV. The all-wheel-drive system, the active rear-axle steering and the quick-shifting transmission enhance the emotionally appealing hallmark AMG driving experience". Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and head of business units Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes-Maybach

In the GLC43 4MATIC, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with electric exhaust gas turbocharger produces 310 kW (421 hp) and has an additional boost of 10 kW (14 hp) via the belt-driven starter-generator in the lower speed range. The standard rear-axle steering, the AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission with wet start-off clutch and the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping System also contribute to the dynamic driving experience.

The hybrid powertrain exclusive to Mercedes-AMG in the GLC63 S E PERFORMANCE is a technical masterpiece. It combines the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine with an Electric Drive Unit (EDU) on the rear axle for an exhilarating driving experience with high efficiency. In addition to the clearly noticeable thrust, the independent hybrid layout also ensures a balanced weight distribution - benefiting driving dynamics and handling in equal measure. The immediate response of the electric drive on the rear axle, the fast torque build-up and the rapid power delivery are very special features.

Depending on the drive program and driving conditions, the electric motor boosts power and torque according to the situation, thus conveying either a particularly comfortable or a performance-oriented driving experience. Electric-only mode is also possible. The electric powertrain and the high-performance battery with 400 volts are AMG-exclusive in-house developments. Just like in Formula 1™, the battery is specifically designed for fast power output and draw with innovative direct cooling of the cells. The combined system output is 500 kW (680 hp), the combined maximum system torque 1020 Nm.

Another highlight is the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for even more driving pleasure. Added to this is the standard active rear-axle steering, which combines agility and stability.

Characteristic AMG elements for the exterior and interior ensure a sporty, refined appearance

On the outside and inside, numerous AMG-specific details underscore the dynamic and high-quality character of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC variants in equal measure. In the exterior design, these include the AMG- specific radiator grille with vertical struts and the AMG front apron with flics, sporty air intakes and chrome- plated trim element. Flics, large inlets and air curtains direct the airflow specifically to the various functions. Harmoniously integrated side sill panels, the diffuser-look rear apron (GLC43) or additional diffuser board (GLC63 S) and the two twin tailpipe trims (round on the GLC43, trapezoidal on the GLC63 S) round off the design.

In the interior, AMG seats in ARTICO man-made leather/MICROCUT AMG microfibre with distinctive graphics and upholstery add a sporty touch. Optional leather and nappa leather upholstery with embossed AMG crest in the front head restraints is available. The AMG Performance seats are also available as an option.

The AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather (GLC43) or nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre (GLC63 S) is also fitted as standard. It is flattened at the bottom, perforated in the grip area and equipped with silver-coloured aluminium gearshift paddles. The two round AMG steering wheel buttons allow fast and unerring operation of various dynamic driving functions and of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. The sporty-luxurious atmosphere is rounded off by AMG sports pedals, AMG floor mats and illuminated door sill panels with AMG lettering.

The MBUX infotainment system includes various AMG-specific displays and functions. These include special displays in the instrument cluster, on the portrait-orientation multimedia central display in the centre console and on the optional head-up display. The AMG-exclusive "Supersport" style offers the option of displaying various contents via a vertical structure. This includes a set-up menu that displays the current settings of the suspension or transmission. In addition, the driver can have a navigation map or consumption data displayed in "Supersport" style.

Also integrated is AMG TRACK PACE (standard in the GLC63 S, optional for the GLC43), the data logger for use on the racetrack. The software records more than 80 vehicle-specific data such as speed, acceleration and steering angle ten times per second while driving around a race track. Also informative are the display of lap and sector times as well as additional training and analysis tools.

AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder with electric exhaust gas turbocharger

At the heart of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC models is the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which combines innovative technologies and high performance with exemplary efficiency. The power unit remains true to a tradition typical of the brand: Not only was it developed entirely at the company's Affalterbach site, but it is also installed there in accordance with the "One Man, One Engine" principle. In doing so, Mercedes-AMG combines the craftsmanship of its highly qualified employees with the latest production methods of Industry 4.0 and a high degree of digitalisation.

The M139l engine, as it is known internally (l for longitudinal installation), is the only production engine in the world to date that is turbocharged with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. The system is a direct derivative of the technology that the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1™ Team has been using successfully in the premier class of motorsport for many years. The new form of turbocharging guarantees particularly spontaneous response across the entire rev range. This leads to an even more dynamic driving experience, while at the same time increasing efficiency.

The functional principle of the electric exhaust gas turbocharger in detail

An electric motor around four centimetres thin is integrated directly on the turbocharger shaft between the turbine wheel on the exhaust side and the compressor wheel on the intake side. This directly drives the shaft of the turbocharger and is electronically controlled, accelerating the compressor wheel before the exhaust gas flow takes over the drive conventionally.

This significantly improves the response directly from idle speed and across the entire rev range. The combustion engine responds even more spontaneously to accelerator pedal input, while the entire driving feel is significantly more dynamic. In addition, the electrification of the turbocharger allows higher torque at low revs. This also increases agility and optimises acceleration from a standstill. Even when the driver lifts off the accelerator or brakes, the technology is able to maintain boost pressure at all times. This ensures a continuously direct response.

Powered by the 48-volt on-board electrical system, the electric exhaust gas turbocharger operates at speeds of up to 175,000 rpm, which enables a very high air flow rate. The turbocharger, electric motor and power electronics are connected to the combustion engine's cooling circuit to create an optimal temperature environment at all times.

Compared to the GLC43, however, the turbocharger in the GLC63 S is significantly larger. This delivers a higher air flow rate and thus more power. In addition, the integrated electric motor is driven by the 400-volt high-voltage system.

The closed deck design of the M139l ensures high rigidity at low weight. This enables peak combustion pressures of up to 160 bar. The areas around the cylinders are largely closed, and the cover plate is only pierced by smaller channels for the coolant and engine oil. Another outstanding feature of the engine is the two-stage petrol injection. In the first stage, particularly fast and precise piezo injectors deliver the fuel into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 200 bar. The second stage adds intake manifold duct injection with solenoid valves, which is needed to achieve the engine's high specific power output.

310 kW (421 hp) output and 500 Nm torque enable sporty driving performance

In the 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine, the innovative technology helps the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4MATIC to achieve a rated output of 310 kW (421 hp) at 6750 rpm. The maximum torque of 500 Nm is available at 5000 rpm. Depending on the situation, the system also briefly provides an additional boost of 10 kW (14 hp) by the belt-driven starter generator (BSG). The second-generation RSG acts as a mild hybrid, providing this temporary power boost as well as functions such as gliding and recuperation for maximum efficiency. At the same time, the 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions between the start/stop function and the gliding mode function are almost imperceptible. The GLC43 4MATIC accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

E PERFORMANCE Hybrid with 500 kW (680 hp) system output and up to 1020 Nm system torque

In the GLC63 S E PERFORMANCE, the M139l produces 350 kW (476 hp) at 6725 rpm. This makes it the most powerful series-produced four-cylinder engine in the world. The maximum combustion engine torque of 545 Nm is available at 5250-5500 rpm. In the performance hybrid, the 2.0-litre engine is combined with a permanently excited synchronous electric motor, a high-performance battery developed in Affalterbach and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. The system output of 500 kW (680 hp) and the maximum system torque of 1020 Nm enable impressive driving performance: Acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h takes just 3.5 seconds and only ends at an electronically governed 275 km/h.

The 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor is positioned at the rear axle, where it is integrated with an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and the electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential in a compact electric drive unit (EDU). Experts refer to this layout as a P3 hybrid. The lightweight high-performance battery is also located in the rear above the rear axle. This compact design has numerous advantages:

The electric motor acts directly on the rear axle and can therefore convert its power more directly into propulsion - for that extra boost when moving off, accelerating or overtaking. The inherent design of the electric motor means that its power can kick in straight away at full torque, making particularly agile starting possible. In addition, the driver immediately experiences a noticeable performance increase thanks to the integrated, electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential: the hybrid model accelerates out of bends with great agility.

If slip occurs at the rear axle, the drive power of the electric motor is also transferred to the front wheels as needed for more traction. The mechanical connection of the fully variable all-wheel drive makes this possible by means of the propeller shaft and drive shafts of the front wheels. The positioning at the rear axle improves the weight and axle load distribution in the vehicle. This forms the basis for the compelling handling.

The AMG concept offers very high recuperation efficiency, as the system allows only minimal mechanical and hydraulic losses from the engine and transmission. The automated two-speed transmission at the rear axle with its specially calibrated gear ratio ensures the spread from high wheel torque for agile starting to safe continuous output at higher speeds. An electric actuator engages second gear at around 140 km/h at the latest, which corresponds to the electric motor's maximum speed of around 13,500 rpm.

With the increase in performance due to the additional electric motor, the development team was also able to improve the efficiency of the entire vehicle in parallel - and achieve lower emissions as well as lower consumption.

Inspired by Formula 1™, developed in Affalterbach: the AMG high-performance battery

The development of the lithium-ion energy storage system is inspired by technologies proven in the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team's Formula 1™ hybrid racing cars. In the course of the development, the experts from the Formula 1™ engine shop High Performance Powertrains (HPP) in Brixworth exchanged ideas intensively with Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach. The AMG high-performance battery combines high power that can be called up frequently in succession with low weight to increase the overall performance of the vehicle. Added to this are the fast energy draw and the high power density. This means that during a brisk drive in hilly terrain, for example, drivers can immediately call on the full power potential on uphill stretches, while recuperation is strong when driving downhill.

80 kW continuous output and 150 kW peak output

The high-performance battery in the GLC63 S E PERFORMANCE offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, 80 kW continuous power and 150 kW peak power for ten seconds. Charging takes place via recuperation or the installed 3.7 kW on-board charger with alternating current at a charging station, wallbox or household socket. The battery is designed for fast power delivery and draw, not for the longest possible range. Nevertheless, the electric range of 12 kilometres allows a practical activity radius, for example for quiet and all-electric driving from the residential area to the outskirts of the city or to the motorway.