Mercedes-Benz is catering to the desires of those who seek a sportier appearance in their sport utility vehicles with the introduction of the AMG-tuned GLC twins: the GLC43 and the GLC63 S E Performance, now available in a sleek Coupe format.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that beneath their stylish exteriors, these Coupe variants share the same underpinnings as the standard AMG GLC SUVs that made their debut in July. The GLC63 S E Performance is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 469 bhp, complemented by an additional 201 bhp from a single electric motor. This combination results in a formidable 671 peak bhp and a massive 752 pound-feet of torque. It’s worth mentioning that this peak power is accessible for a brief 10-second burst.
The GLC43 also offers a hybrid boost, although in a more restrained manner. Featuring the same turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it produces 416 bhp, further augmented by a modest 13 bhp from an electric motor, providing extra power when needed. Both models utilize Mercedes-Benz’s AMG Speedshift nine-speed transmission, coupled with power sent to all four wheels, and are equipped with rear-axle steering and the AMG Ride Control suspension as standard features.
Despite the transformation into a Coupe silhouette, performance figures for both models remain unchanged. Mercedes-AMG states that the GLC43 achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.7 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The GLC63 S E Performance, on the other hand, accomplishes the same 0-60 mph run in just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed limited to 171 mph. Suspension options, performance brakes, and the interior layout featuring the familiar MBUX system remain consistent across both models.
However, interior space does vary between the two. The GLC63 S E Performance offers 390 liters (13.8 cubic feet) of cargo space with the rear seats in place or 1,334 liters (47.1 cubic feet) when folded down. In contrast, the GLC43 provides a bit more room, specifically 544 and 1,490 liters (19.2 and 52.6 cubic feet), respectively. This translates to a decrease of approximately 57 liters (2 cubic feet) with the seats up and seven liters with them folded compared to their SUV counterparts.
While pricing and availability details are yet to be disclosed by Mercedes, the GLC43 is designated as a 2024 model, while the GLC63 S E Performance is set for the 2025 model year.
