Spearheading the GLC line-up — of which we’ve sampled the range-topping diesel derivative, the GLC 300d 4Matic — Mercedes-AMG has finally revealed the GLC 63 S E Performance … and its GLC 43 4Matic sibling. Here’s what you can expect…
Let’s start with the pinnacle GLC, the GLC 63 S E Performance. The top-tier GLC is equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, comprising the Affalterbach automaker’s 350 kW/545 Nm (M139l) 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a 150 kW permanently excited synchronous electric motor, coupled with a “high-performance” battery, which, when fully charged, allows for an all-electric range of 12 km.
In total, the petrol-electric set-up produces 500 kW and a whopping 1 020 Nm of torque, the same as its sedan stablemater, the new C63 S E Performance. Power is sent to all four corners via Benz’s 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system
The Three-pointed Star brand’s performance arm claims these figures allow the apex GLC to completes the obligatory 0-100 km/h sprint in “just” 3.5 seconds, before topping out at an electronically governed top speed of 275 km/h.
The GLC 63 S E Performance is brought to a halt is AMG high-performance composite brakes: 390 mm discs, gripped by six-piston fixed callipers, at the front. The rear arrangement features 370 mm discs and single-piston floating callipers.
On to the GLC 43 4Matic. Slotting in below the full-fat E Performance variant, the 43 variant employs the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot, coupled with 48 V mild-hybrid tech, as the latest C43 Matic. As a reminder, this set-up produces 310 kW and 500 Nm.
In the GLC 43 4Matic, these outputs, which are directed to all four corners, allow for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Stopping power is provided by an AMG sports braking system, comprising ventilated and perforated discs, measuring 370 mm fore and 360 mm aft. The front callipers feature four pistons, while the rear set-up gains one-piston floating callipers.
Both models are equipped with the firm’s nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT (multi-clutch transmission), replete with a wet start-off clutch. According to the company, thanks to the gearbox’s lower inertia and reduces weight, throttle response has been enhanced. The carmaker says the “elaborately” calibrated software “ensures” shirt shift times and fast multiple downshifts, while the double-clutching function in Spott and Sport+ drive modes delivers a “particularly expressive” shifting experience.
For improved comfort and dynamics, these models are fitted with a three-stage AMG speed-sensitive steering system. At high speeds, the steering power assistance decreases, while, at low speeds, it increases. Active rear-axle steering is also present.
