The automaker shoehorned a V8 engine into its midsize SUV
Mercedes-AMG has a treat for lovers of SUVs that go as fast as supercars.
Well, two treats. We're talking about the 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé that will debut at the New York Auto Show next week.
Marketed as the only models in their segment powered by a V8 biturbo engine, the GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé slot in above the V6-powered GLC 43 versions in the lineup. Under the hood, there's the mighty 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that offers 469 hp (476 PS) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) in the base model and 503 hp (510 PS) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) in the GLC 63 S and GLC 63 S Coupé.
All models feature the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed automatic transmission and the rear-biased 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system with fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles, as well as a rear-axle limited-slip differential. As a result, performance is impressive: the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 3.8 seconds for the GLC 63 S and 4.0 seconds for the GLC 63, bringing the SUVs into Mercedes-AMG GT territory. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
The performance SUV rides on air spring suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, and benefits from the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs that offer five driving modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, Individual, and Race. Each mode allows the driver to alter the response of the throttle, transmission, steering, suspension, ESP, and all-wheel drive. There's also an "M" button that switches directly to the transmission's manual mode.
You'll recognize a GLC 63 on the street mainly due to its AMG Panamericana grille, previously reserved for the AMG GT. Other distinctive details include the exclusive 19-inch/20-inch light-alloy wheels, the aggressive bumpers with a large front splitter at the front and diffuser at the rear, bulged wheel arches, more pronounced side sills, a spoiler lip on the roof, and twin tailpipe trims.
Inside, the GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupé bring standard sports seats, instrument panel trimmed in black Artico artificial leather, aluminum trim, and more.