When it comes to creating electrifying performance cars, Mercedes-Benz doesn’t believe there’s a one-size-fits-all solution. Their high-performance division, Mercedes-AMG, has already developed electric vehicles like the AMG EQE SUV and the S63 AMG E Performance sedan, a plug-in hybrid that combines electric power with one of the brand’s classic V8 engines. The newest addition to the lineup is the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance, a souped-up version of the GLC-Class compact crossover SUV that competes with performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M and Porsche Macan.
Scheduled to hit showrooms in the latter half of 2024 as a 2025 model, this new GLC63 is a plug-in hybrid, much like the latest S63, but it’s designed to use electric power to augment a significantly smaller engine. Instead of the hefty V8 found in the S63 and the previous GLC63 models, it boasts a more fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Rather than viewing electrification as a mere necessity, this AMG plug-in hybrid explores its full potential.
The styling updates to the GLC63 are subtle yet noticeable, building on the already modest redesign of the base GLC introduced for the 2023 model year. AMG has adorned this vehicle with its signature vertical-slatted grille, larger front air intakes, a rear diffuser, prominent tailpipes, and some AMG-specific badging. These changes may only be evident to true car aficionados, adding a layer of understated coolness to the vehicle.
Available in both standard SUV and coupe body styles, the term “coupe” here refers to four-door vehicles with a sleek, sloped roofline, a design trend popularized by German automakers like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Porsche. These models offer less rear headroom and cargo space compared to traditional SUVs but maintain a stylish appeal.
In its standard SUV form, the GLC63 offers cargo space comparable to other luxury SUVs of its size, like the BMW X3 and Porsche Macan. One of the benefits of an AMG Mercedes is that beneath all the performance enhancements, it’s still a practical, everyday car.
The interior of the GLC63 follows the familiar yet striking design trends of Mercedes’ current lineup. The cabin features an angled dashboard, floating screens, and large round air vents, signaling that this is no ordinary vehicle. AMG models receive special touches like a combination of microfiber and Nappa leather upholstery, and there are optional sport seats with additional bolstering.
The infotainment system is carried over from the non-AMG GLC models and includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. Both screens are standalone units, with the touchscreen angled slightly towards the driver, providing a cockpit-like experience. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The screen setup and underlying Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) operating system mirror those found in other recent Mercedes models, such as the S-Class and C-Class sedans. The user interface, anchored by a “Zero Layer” arrangement that utilizes widgets instead of traditional menu pages, is both efficient and visually appealing. For example, the digital instrument cluster features a wave pattern for the tachometer instead of traditional dials. Mercedes’ voice control system is also highly effective, often proving more convenient than using the touchscreen.
The GLC63 includes AMG Track Pace, a built-in data logger that records lap times and driving data such as steering angle and brake pedal usage. While this feature can help improve driving techniques and shave milliseconds off lap times, it’s doubtful many owners will regularly take their luxury SUV to a racetrack to utilize it.
Standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are included, but more advanced technologies like Mercedes’ Drive Pilot, found on the S-Class and EQS, are absent. This vehicle focuses on enhancing the driving experience rather than automating it.
The GLC63’s powertrain cleverly blends gasoline and electricity. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine alone produces 469 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque, aided by a small electric motor that keeps the turbo spinning efficiently. This setup makes it the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world, according to Mercedes.
The car’s nine-speed automatic transmission pairs with an additional electric motor at the rear axle, which has its own two-speed transmission and limited-slip differential. A 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack allows for 107 horsepower of continuous output from the electric motor, or 201 horsepower in short bursts. Combined, the system produces 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than the previous GLC63’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
Mercedes claims the GLC63 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Compared to its main rival, the BMW X3 M, which generates 503 horsepower from a non-hybrid setup, the Mercedes is only 0.3 seconds faster, even with a major power advantage. Both vehicles are equipped with speed limiters; the Mercedes tops out at 171 mph, while the BMW can reach 177 mph with its M Performance Package.
When pushed to its limits, the GLC63 justifies its AMG badge with dramatic performance. Nevertheless, it’s not quite as nimble as other high-performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M and Porsche Macan, which can feel smaller and lighter than they actually are. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid powertrain lacks some of the charm of a traditional engine or a pure electric vehicle. The sound is an unusual mix of muted exhaust noises and mechanical whines and whistles.
Although specific fuel economy and electric range estimates were unavailable at the time of publication, it’s clear that the GLC63 prioritizes performance over efficiency. As the only plug-in hybrid in its segment and given that its predecessor achieved just 17 mpg combined, expectations for efficiency are modest.
Safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the latest GLC models were not yet released at the time of publication. How these ratings will relate to the GLC63 remains uncertain.
While Mercedes offers limited options beyond paint, wheels, and carbon fiber trim, other choices within the AMG lineup should be considered. The AMG C63 S E Performance sedan shares the same plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering similar power in a lighter sedan format with a lower center of gravity, though with trade-offs in cargo space and rear-seat comfort.
By the time the GLC63 hits showrooms, Mercedes will also offer an AMG GLC43 model, which forgoes the electric components in favor of a stand-alone gasoline engine generating 416 horsepower, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. Although it’s not electrified, it may prove simpler and more user-friendly than the intricate GLC63.
The GLC63 represents a transitional phase between AMG’s traditional performance cars and future electric vehicles. While it’s much more engaging than AMG’s all-electric EQE SUV, it doesn’t quite match the best internal-combustion performance SUVs. It checks the boxes with its powerful gasoline engine and plug-in hybrid capabilities, but it feels like an interim solution until more compelling all-electric performance cars arrive.