The New Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Is The C63's Lifted Cousin

The already complex AMG SUV menu has just been given a couple of new options. We’re talking about the new GLC 63 and GLC 63 coupe, and while we aren’t usually madly keen on fast SUVs, this one’s piqued our interest.

The GLC is - as a reminder - the replacement for the old GLK, which never got an AMG model. The current GLC already has a kinda-sorta AMG version in the form of the V6-powered AMG 43, but this new ‘full fat’ 63 is fitted with Affalterbach’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 - the first time it’s been slotted into an SUV.

This positions it just above the GLA 45 and the GLC 43, and just under the 5.5-litre V8-powered GLE 63 (which was formerly known as the ML). Sounds like a bit of a sweet spot to us, and since this is a car based on the C-Class, it’s essentially a lifted C63. A gross over-simplification, of course, but I think you can see how that results in a tempting prospect.

It’s the usual ‘S recipe’ we’ve gotten used to from AMG, which means a base-spec, 469bhp/479lb ft GLC 63 with a mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear, and a range-topping GLC 63 S with 503bhp/516lb ft and an electronically-controlled diff.

All models get a ‘4Matic’ all-wheel drive system, which predominately powers the rear wheels, bringing power to the front axle where necessary. Also fitted to all models is Mercedes-AMG’s nine-speed ‘MCT’ automatic gearbox.

Where it gets particularly interesting is performance figures, because to 62mph, the GLC 63 is actually quicker than the C63, despite tipping the scales at roughly two tonnes. The entry level car manages it in four seconds dead, while the S will do it in just 3.8 - two tenths quicker than the equivalent AMG Cs. That’s what happens when you combine all-wheel drive with launch control…

Interested? It goes on sale mid June. It’ll be making its public debut at the New York Auto Show next week.