The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Perfomance challenges the rest of SUVs with 680 CV of power

A few weeks ago, Mercedes renewed its best-selling SUV. Now, a version arrives that breaks with everything and brings the most active and dynamic variant of the range. It is the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Perfomance, which drops the familiar V8 engine it has and replaces it with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain designed to make a difference in performance.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Perfomance stands out for its front grille. It is of AMG type and is formed by striking, robust vertical bars. The AMG identity is also present in the front skirts and the front air intakes, which are larger than on the model it is based on.

The front section of this model has the job of directing air to specific points to allow cooling. These points include, for example, the brakes, and it also allows better aerodynamic behavior. Looking at the rear, we find a double spoiler over the boot lid, a prominent diffuser and two dual exhaust pipes, which give a very sporty look.

Pure AMG interior

Upon entering the cabin, we find AMG seats upholstered in artic leather-look and MICROCUT microfibre. These feature graphics that identify them as part of the AMG range. But if the buyer wants something even more striking, they can opt for nappa leather upholstery, with the AMG badge embossed on the front headrests. The front seats are also available with a semi-bucket design.

The steering wheel has a flattened shape and is upholstered in nappa leather and the same MICROCUT fibre found elsewhere in the interior. It features the gear shift paddles and the AMG Dynamic Select driving mode controls. The AMG logo appears in several places, so you never forget that this is this variant.

As for the MBUX system, it offers functions and applications specific to the AMG range. There is also a new instrument configuration called Supersport and the telemetry system for enjoying the circuit, AMG Track Pace. With this function, up to 80 data points from the drive can be recorded, to keep control at all times.

The plug-in hybrid engine

As for the engine, it is the same unit already debuted in the top-of-range Mercedes C-Class. It is a 2.0-litre M139L petrol engine, equipped with an electric turbo. This unit delivers 476 CV of power and a maximum torque of 545 Nm. These figures make it the most powerful four-cylinder engine in a production model in the world.

The electric motor working in combination with this engine is located on the rear axle and delivers 150 kW, that is, 204 CV. Combined, the model reaches 680 CV of power and a top speed limited to 274 km/h. The battery storing the energy that powers the motor is 6.1 kWh and allows it to travel 12 kilometres in electric mode. A figure that does not qualify it for the 0 environmental label, but for the ECO label.

The all-wheel-drive system of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Perfomance allows that, when one rear wheel loses grip, torque passes to the front axle, enabling control to be recovered more efficiently. Other elements that improve vehicle control include rear-axle steering of up to 2.5º, brakes with 390 mm discs and six-piston calipers on the front wheels, and 370 mm discs at the rear.

For the time being, we do not know the prices of this car in Spain, so we will have to wait a while longer to find out how much it will cost to have this model in your garage.