The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S is a performance SUV with a problem

We call this Agenda News. After the presentation of the second generation of the Mercedes GLC in 2022, the inevitable AMG versions now follow. The two performance SUVs are hot as ever, don’t worry, but there’s a problem. Especially with the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S.

Let’s start with the weakest of the bunch. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is also likely to disappoint its fans, because unfortunately it goes from a 390 hp and 520 Nm strong six-cylinder to a four-cylinder with mild hybrid support, 408 hp and 500 Nm.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 with mild hybrid support

As usual, the limiter does not allow speeds faster than 250 km/h, but a sleeve can be adjusted for a fee. Compared to its predecessor, the new AMG GLC 43 is slightly faster, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 instead of 4.9 seconds.

The benefit of a mild hybrid is that the integrated starter motor/alternator adds momentary power when accelerating. In the case of the AMG GLC 43, that’s 14 hp and 150 Nm. Standard equipment of the model includes a nine-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering.

Shed a tear for the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S

Fans of the absolute top model, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S, will probably shed a tear at the sight of the specifications. Previously, the car had a powerful twin-turbo V8, but it was scrapped for environmental reasons.

At the front of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 SE Performance (who comes up with that name?) is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with 476 hp and 545 Nm. An electric motor increases the system output to 680 hp and brings the maximum torque to a whopping 1020 Nm.

The performance of the GLC 63 is monumental. It accelerates to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and is approved by the electronic border guard at a top speed of 275 km/h. A nine-speed automatic is also standard on the 63.

The 4WD system of the monstrous Mercedes can send the drive forces to the front or rear wheels in a completely variable manner. The active chassis is equipped with roll stabilization to keep the car as flat as possible when cornering. The 63 brakes with carbon-ceramic discs.