Mercedes-Benz Australia will double down on its four-cylinder plug-in hybrid AMG strategy as it opens order books for the second-generation GLC63 S sports SUV today.
The move comes even as respected sources indicate Mercedes-AMG is mulling a dramatic about-face with a return to V8 power in vehicles like the GLC’s coupe sibling, the CLE63.
Power rises while acceleration times drop
Priced at $192,900 before on-road costs in SUV format and $199,500 before costs in Coupe guise, the GLC63 jumps in price by four to five percent despite losing half its cylinders.
Prices start from $192,900 before on-road costs for the new GLC63
It may be a four-cylinder, but like the C63 sedan reviewed by Chasing Cars earlier in 2024, the 2.0-litre turbocharged GLC63 gains a sophisticated and powerful electric hybrid system.
As a result, maximum power leaps to 500kW (from 375kW), while combined petrol-electric torque is theoretically as high as 1020Nm – previously 700Nm in non-hybrid V8 guise.
Instant electric boost slashes 0.3 seconds from the GLC63’s 0-100km/h time: Mercedes claimed the V8 could do the triple digit run in 3.8 seconds while the new format is as pacey as 3.5 seconds.
Will the GLC63 return to V8 power?
No V8 here. Turbo four-cylinder power features, like in the C-Class
But questions abound over the longevity of the four-cylinder GLC63 model – as well as the four-pot C63 which is reportedly experiencing sales at a lower volume than the previous-generation V8 model.
British publication reported this month that the CLE63 – a two-door coupe utilising the same basic platform as the C63 and GLC63 – was switched from four-cylinder hybrid to 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 before development ceased.
Final plans for the C63 and GLC63 were confirmed and set in motion well before the decision to backtrack to the V8 for the CLE63.
The GLC63 will also be available as a coupe
Meanwhile, the most senior AMG executives have told media that customer preferences will decide future decisions in relation to powertrain lineup.
Standard equipment swells
Like the previous GLC63, the new four-cylinder hybrid utilises a standard-fit nine-speed automatic transmission – in new-gen form, it’s a Speedshift multi-clutch gearbox without a torque converter.
All-wheel drive is also standard, with AMG’s 4MATIC+ system able to vary the default 50/50 front-to-rear torque split all the way to 100-percent rear for tail-out slides.
Adaptive dampers are standard, while brakes are six-piston fixed callipers on the front axle and single-piston floating callipers at the rear. Ceramic composite brakes are optional.
Inside the new Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance
Four-wheel steering has been added to the GLC63 with the capacity to turn the rear wheels up to 2.5 degrees, while the electronic power system offers three settings for various levels of resistance.
Australian GLC63 units are fitted as standard with AMG’s Night Package II, blacking out the grille, chrome badges, wheels and other exterior elements.
21-inch forged alloys feature a cross-spoke design while inside, nappa leather multicontour AMG Performance front seats are fitted along with a nappa and microfibre steering wheel.
Pricing will be over $200K driveaway for the hot GLC-Class
Early adopters can opt for the AMG Edition 1 package which sees the GLC63 painted in Manufaktur graphite grey magno (satin) paint with yellow highlights for an additional $12,900.
2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 pricing in Australia
All prices are before on-road costs.
- GLC63 S SUV: $192,900
- GLC63 S Coupe: $199,500