AS early as 1999, Mercedes-AMG set a milestone with the ML 55 – not only in its own 50‑year history. For the combination of high-performance engine in the skin of an SUV opened up an entirely new market segment.

For the first time in the world, a mid-size SUV is now available with the powerful eight-cylinder biturbo in two output variants. The basis for this is provided by the AMG 4.0‑litre V8 engine with 350 kW (476 hp) in the GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé or 375 kW (510 hp) in the GLC 63 S and GLC 63 S Coupé. While the S-model variant will be available in both the GCC and Levant, the non-S model will only be available in Levant.

As a visual indication of their links with Mercedes-AMG sports cars, the new models sport the AMG Panamericana grille, which was previously reserved for the AMG GT family. In addition, the new models offer all the advantages of a Mercedes-SUV: ample room for passengers and luggage, comprehensive array of safety equipment and superior traction, also in the wet or slippery road conditions.

“The new GLC 63 4MATIC+ and Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ Coupé are quite special vehicles. They look as SUVs but the feeling says motorsport. It is no easy job designing the most powerful mid-sized performance SUV yet. We are introducing the region to highly sporty and dynamic vehicles while at the same time offering inherent extreme driving stability. Requiring us to put our heart and soul, along with our many years of SUV expertise, into the development of these vehicles, have resulted in SUVs that can be driven with high precision and agility equally at home or on a high-speed lap of the race track,” said Lennart Mueller-Teut, Head of Marketing & Communications, Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East.

“With our V8 biturbo engine, we hold a decisive USP in the Performance market. For some people buying a sport car can be inconvenient – we are offering the thrill of driving a sport car without comprising on practicality. Adventure-seekers leading a dynamic lifestyle, but still mindful of an SUV’s practicality, now have a perfect option on the market.”

The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder biturbo engine is already used in numerous AMG Performance vehicles. A distinctive feature is the two turbochargers, which are positioned inside the cylinder “V”, and not on the outside of the cylinder banks. The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust gas emissions. One mechanic assembles each engine in the engine shop in Affalterbach according to the “one man – one engine” principle.

The new GLC 63 4MATIC+ and GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ feature the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission, which made its debut in the Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+. The driver benefits from extremely short shift/response times. Fast multiple downshifts and the double-declutching function make for a highly emotive gearshift experience. A start-off wet clutch replaces the torque converter, saving weight and optimizing the response to the driver’s accelerator pedal input.

After the E-Class from Mercedes-AMG, the GLC, too, now comes with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. This intelligent system unites the advantages of different drive concepts: the fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction right up to the physical limit. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa is seamless, because intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture. The best possible torque distribution is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver’s input.

The four AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus” and “Individual” allow the driver to extensively influence the characteristics of the GLC 63 4MATIC+. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of engine, transmission, suspension, steering, ESP and all-wheel drive. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the driver has the option of pressing the “M” button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension settings can also be specially selected if required.

The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ has an additional “RACE” drive program, in which all the parameters are configured for maximum performance. With a total of five drive programs, the Performance SUV once again offers the widest choice in the segment.

The as-standard typical V8 engine sound comes courtesy of an exhaust system with flap technology. It is controlled by a map and automatically operated depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program, the power demanded by the driver and the engine speed. Optionally available is the Performance exhaust system, which allows the sound to be modulated at the press of a button.

The agility, highly dynamic lateral acceleration and maximum grip of the new models are also thanks to the new AMG suspension with fully supporting multi-chamber air suspension, which ensures exceptionally high levels of camber stability, driving dynamics and steering precision. — SG

The front axle features a four-link design with special steering knuckles, optimised elastokinematics and radial brake connections, while the rear axle model-specific multi-link concept impresses with highly precise wheel control and increased stiffness.

For improved traction and driving dynamics, the GLC 63 4MATIC+ comes with a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ uses an electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel when cornering, without control interventions by the brakes. The result allows the driver to accelerate out of corners earlier thanks to the improved traction.

Precise, agile handling: speed-sensitive sports steering

The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering makes for precise, agile handling with authentic feedback. The driver benefits from the variable steering ratio and optimized response. The steering also features variable power assistance with the two modes “Comfort” and “Sport”.

A striking characteristic of the exterior design is the expressive front end: the new GLC 63 4MATIC+ is the first Mercedes-AMG Performance vehicle to feature the Panamericana grille, which was previously reserved for the AMG GT family of sports cars. This design statement affirms the consistently dynamic design of the new Performance SUV and Coupé. A wide front apron inspired by the design of a jet wing, with a large front splitter, impressively embodies the power of the new models.

Interior with a consistent focus on driving dynamics

The interior underscores the leadership ambition of the new mid-size Performance SUVs in terms of driving dynamics. Driver and front passenger are enclosed as standard in sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather, combined with DINAMICA microfibre, which unite excellent lateral support with functional ergonomics tailored to the job of driving.

The instrument panel is trimmed in black ARTICO man-made leather with contrasting topstitching. The high-grade look is underlined by aluminium trim. The touchpad is flanked by the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch and numerous AMG-specific controls, such as the button for the 3-stage AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, 3-stage ESP® or optionally the button for the AMG Performance exhaust system with flap control.

The S-model variant comes with an even more extensive equipment package, including a Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather / DINAMICA microfibre, AMG badges in the front head restraints in combination with leather appointments and AMG instrument cluster with red highlights.

The AMG Performance Studio offers technical and design highlights to make the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ even sportier, more exclusive and more individual. The following provides just a selection: AMG Performance exhaust system with flap control at the push of a button, AMG Night package, AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre package, 20-inch light-alloy wheels, 21-inch light-alloy wheels, 21-inch forged wheels and AMG Performance seats.

Exclusive “Edition 1” special model at market launch

The SUV and Coupé variants of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ and GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ are also available at launch as an “Edition 1” special model: the exclusive combination of equipment details turn the special model into the flagship of the range.

In both body variants, the Night package in high-gloss black enhances the racing-inspired looks. The sports stripes on the sides of the vehicle and the aerodynamics package draw their inspiration from the world of motor sport. The matt black 21-inch cross-spoke forged wheels are provided with highlights in the form of yellow or high-sheen rim flanges. The Aerodynamics package, too, draws its inspiration from the world of motor sport.

The racing feel is carried over into the interior. The sports seats are upholstered in black nappa leather and reprise the color yellow in the contrasting topstitching of the specific diamond pattern. Black nappa leather with yellow contrasting topstitching also enhances the door center panels, armrests and center console, while further yellow highlights adorn the instrument cluster, floor mats and Performance steering wheel with flattened bottom section in DINAMICA microfiber with 12 o’clock marking. — SG