Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance (X254)

The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance is the ultimate version of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC crossover that pushes the boundaries of what a GLC can do and with such performance, this is the GLC that is too cool to be ignored by latecomers everywhere.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance
Coupe

Starting at 121,856 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new GLC63 S E Performance, in normal and coupe versions, is what happens when the second-generation GLC gains some superpowers and plans to use it either for good or for evil. Whatever path it crosses, the new model prefers to go nearly quietly unlike the old GLC63 from a distant past because of its electrified powertrain that is deemed controversial by AMG fanatics.

Although it looks similar to its lesser brother, the GLC43, with some minor alternations to its detailing in order to differentiate it from the lesser one, as well as the same interior that can be fitted with optional Performance Seats, the GLC63 S E Performance throws away the predecessor's V8 power in favor of the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine armed with the electric drive unit, AMG High-Performance Battery, belt-driven starter-alternator, and electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, creating a P3 Hybrid layout that produces 680PS of power output and 1,020Nm of torque, more than the previous model it replaces.

Mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G gearbox, the GLC63 S E Performance can sprint from 0-100kph in 3.5 seconds, and with an optional extra, it has a top speed of 275kph, making it the quickest GLC ever spawned. 

Controversial the P3 Hybrid powertrain is, the GLC63 S E Performance delivers arm-wrestling dynamics most will liken it to wielding a humongous ax in the woods even while fiddling with the AMG Dynamic Select, AMG Ride Control steel-spring suspension with Adaptive Damping System, three-stage variable steering, rear axle steering, ESP, and its AMG high-performance composite brake system. Although extremely bulky to drive due to its PHEV powertrain, it feels capable of lashing out through tarmac, gravel, and snow like it's payday.

Yes, like its C63 S E Performance equivalent, the all-new GLC63 S E Performance's electrified drivetrain sounds muffled for speedo boys behind the wheel but everything else, the intense performance proves that this GLC is willing to use all of its superpowers for good or for evil. Whichever path it tips through, the world's burning with jealousy over the all-new GLC63 S E Performance because this is too cool to be ignored by latecomers everywhere. We just want one.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercedes-AMG GLC43 (X254)

The second-generation Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is the entry-level AMG version of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC crossover that balances the practicality and performance you would expect for Stage 1 of the AMG-fied GLC.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC43

Starting at 86,870 Euros plus additional costs, the X254 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is all about checks and balances fit enough for what's known to be a decent rival to the Audi SQ5.

Although it looks and feels just like the normal GLC, the GLC43 is kitted with signature AMG elements on the outside as well as sports seats (AMG Performance seats optional), and the available AMG TRACK PACE data logger that displays your on-track performance on the move, among many other AMG-fied features you can find in this entry-level AMG crossover.

In tune with the times, the X254 GLC43 is armed with a smaller 2.0L 4-cylinder engine featuring the world's first electric exhaust gas turbocharger. Inspired by AMG's F1 involvement, this new electrified and compact engine produces 422PS of power and 500Nm of torque. Mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and the rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC, it does 0-100kph in 4.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

For a semi-high-performance crossover that delivers a decent balance of performance and practicality everywhere, the all-new GLC43 feels down-to-earth intermediate to drive, even amateurs can get hooked on its sporty characteristics its possess. Although not much of a challenge, the all-new GLC43 is a great start to the AMG-fied GLC lineup. Consider this a warm-up exercise, boys and girls.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercrdes-Benz GLC (X254) Coupe

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC has a coupe version and this variant offers the same stuff you would expect from its normal equivalent but with the sloping roofline worth noticing.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Priced at 62,594 Euros plus additional costs, the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe is the sloping roofline version of the C-Class-based crossover that is all about getting ready for what lies ahead.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe interior

For starters, it looks and feels just like the normal second-generation GLC with its matured looks, a large touch screen that is loaded with the MBUX user interface that includes the Alexa-ish "Hey Mercedes" voice function, the optional ENERGIZING Pack Plus for your comfortable driving pleasure, and make use of the available MBUX Augmented Reality for easier navigation purposes, among many others. Because this is the coupe version, the total boot space has been slashed by 190L with the rear seats folded down, making it less spacious than its normal GLC but it's more spacious than the previous GLC Coupe so job done.

Like the normal GLC, the coupe version feels as balanced as the C-Class it was based on. With the standard 4MATIC, available rear-wheel steering, four-link front suspension, rear multi-link suspension, and various chassis options to choose from, it feels like it's ready to take on almost anything.

It also features an electrified range of 4-cylinder petrol, diesel, and PHEV powertrains, all mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and 48v MHEV tech. The most powerful version goes to the GLC 400e with its 2.0L turbocharged engine bolted to an electric motor and a lithium battery, generating a total power output of 381PS, 650Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, and 239kph of top speed. Driving on electrics, it's good for 130km on one full charge.

The GLC Coupe features a wide array of safety systems such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Car-to-X communication, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Parking Assist, Parking Package, PRE-SAFE, and DIGITAL LIGHT.

This or the BMW X4?

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

Mercrdes-Benz GLC (X254)

Once the Mercedes SUV that your auntie drove, the Mercedes-Benz GLC has evolved to the latest generation and it's now basically the crossover equivalent of today's C-Class. Similarities aside, this is no longer your auntie's Mercedes SUV because this one has turned.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC

Priced at 57,632 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC is the second outing of the C-Class-based crossover that is all about getting ready for what lies ahead.

Beginning with the exterior, the new design feels more of a mashup between today's Mercedes C-Class and the defunct Nissan Skyline Crossover. Either way, it looks mature compared to the previous model, and every which way it goes, it feels like it's another day for the all-new GLC.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC interior

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC interior

Like most newer Mercedes models, the new interior is fitted with a large touch screen that is loaded with the MBUX user interface that includes the Alexa-ish "Hey Mercedes" voice function that allows almost anyone to speak with this car much to the annoyance of anyone in the sweet spot. Apart from that, you can use the touchscreen to change the color of the lighting as well as take advantage of the optional ENERGIZING Pack Plus for your comfortable driving pleasure, and make use of the available MBUX Augmented Reality for easier navigation purposes. In terms of passenger space, it's slightly roomier at the back and has up to 1680 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down, fit for various situations like camping or deliveries.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC

Running on the same underpinnings as the W206 C-Class, the new GLC feels as balanced as the C-Class it was based on. With the standard 4MATIC, available rear-wheel steering, four-link front suspension, rear multi-link suspension, and various chassis options to choose from, it feels like it's ready to take on almost anything. This is another proof that your auntie's Mercedes SUV has turned.

Under the hood, the GLC features an electrified range of 4-cylinder petrol, diesel, and PHEV powertrains, all mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox and 48v MHEV tech. The most powerful version goes to the GLC 400e with its 2.0L turbocharged engine bolted to an electric motor and a lithium battery, generating a total power output of 381PS, 650Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, and 237kph of top speed. Driving on electrics, it's good for 130km on one full charge.

Made in the midst of the new normal, the all-new GLC features a wide array of safety systems such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Car-to-X communication, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Parking Assist, Parking Package, PRE-SAFE, and DIGITAL LIGHT.

With a multitude of upgrades compared to the previous model, the all-new GLC really takes shape as one of the easiest crossovers to live with. Your auntie's Mercedes SUV has turned and it's coming on strong.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-AMG GLC63

Well, it had to happened. After getting a taste of how Mercedes-AMG does with the GLC43 which turns your auntie's crossover into a different kind of animal, here comes the ultimate GLC ever made for those who think they had enough with any kind of GLC and go with something two times the spiciness. Welcome everyone to the Mercedes-AMG GLC63.

2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC63

2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 Coupe

Available in normal and Coupe variants, the GLC63 is the result of what happens when you send the one that was used to be your auntie's crossover into the gym and then inject it with anabolics to make it more beefed up for work outs. This crossover sure wants to feel the burn but whichever body style you choose; from the normal GLC63 to the GLC63 Coupe, it's going to mean something for the brave and the tough. To help differentiate it from the mild and tangy GLC43, the 63 features the new signature Panamericana grille as seen from the GT R and while it looks downright scary, this new grille will be applied in future AMG models so expect the fear factor on the front that scares the motorists more than the rear view of the Ford Mustang.

On the interior, its typical AMG-themed interior really smells like the footballers' locker room post-game. The paneling on the dashboard is themed after carbon fiber, the instrumental panel has a lap timer that sounds pointless on an SUV, the steering wheel is as squishy as a stress toy at the office, and the sports seats are as fun to touch as a pair of Adidas.

The GLC63 comes with two different specs; one is the base variant with 476HP of power unleashed from its 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine from the AMG GT sportscar and the other one is the most exciting part. This S variant uses the same 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine as before but with 510HP of power and 700Nm of torque unleashed while mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport transmission. With the specifically-made AMG Performance 4MATIC+, it goes like an ice cream missile with the 0-100kph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed normally limited to 250kph, 280 km/h if you go for the optional AMG Driver's Package.

Apart from that performance, what makes the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ so special to crossovers like these is it comes with the fully variable torque distribution that can make them behave like two cars at the same time. 

It can either be four-wheel drive or even rear-wheel drive which reminds us of the Ford Focus RS in so many levels and armed with the AMG Sports Suspension and Electrical Rear-Axle LSD, you'll have plenty of reasons to enjoy it but don't get to excited just yet because even with this kind of witchcraft, you drivers need to take some calisthenics before getting behind the wheel because the driving experience with this crossover is about as hot as the Korean hot noodles you bought to the store. If your arms are up for the challenge, so be it. Hope you got your painkillers ready when the inevitable comes.

Should you buy it? The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 starts at 82,705 Euros for the normal one and 86,335 euros for the GLC63 Coupe so they're more expensive than any other crossover in the market but those who are brave enough to tame these wild crossovers, these crossovers are here for those looking for a challenge and with such dynamics, no doubt they're behaving like a Focus RS in every possible way and while they're very loud to see and hear on public roads, the fun factor on the open road and on a hot lap will keep these serious drivers occupied until the dynamics will break one of their arms off so if you value your arms, better be off with the normal GLC for the time being.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

In the ongoing tradition of luxury carmakers making four-door crossover coupes since the BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a four-door coupe derivative of the practical midsize luxury crossover, the GLC-Class, and what this is isn't your auntie's Mercedes anymore. In fact, the new GLC Coupe trades away its utilitarian traits for curves.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Yes, when I say curves, one look and you will notice that it might think this is just a C-Class saloon but with bigger wheels on the mix but the GLC-Class Coupe, being a four-door version of the crossover version of the C-Class, isn't just more of a hunk of a saloon, in fact, its eccentric looks can set you to a state of confusion, knowing why companies like BMW and Mercedes-Benz are making weird-looking four-door crossovers like this one. If you look at the other guys, say the BMW X4 and X6, as well as its big brother, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, you'll know that it wasn't made for the adventurous or those who had a little class, in fact, cars like these should have a little class or else they'll end up being compared to a tall Hong Kong skyscraper for no reason.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe interior

Same issue goes to the inside of the car because even though it's very nice to accommodate, the rear space is what get you noticed due to its sloping roof line but all in all, it's just the same raw deal when you're sitting in the car as long as there's no one getting in your sweet spot at the back. Although the rear space is less than the normal GLC-Class due to its sloping roof line, there's still lots of rooms for your everyday needs and with the rear seats present, there's more room for two macho boxes inside.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Let's see what's like behind the wheel. Despite being sleek and sporty in terms of design, the way it behaves is pretty much average for a luxury crossover and when you opt in for the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL with steel springing, you can really feel the mildness within reach, which makes the most for being a normal handling car with normal driving characteristics. With 4MATIC as the only standard feature, any condition can be a play day as long as you don't make a mess while driving with it because doing it too hard, you'll face some cataclysmic understeering if you're not very careful so patience is a virtue when you're taking this all-weather friend on the go. Under the hood, the GLC Coupe comes with a range of 2.0L turbo petrol and a 2.1L turbodiesel with the higher output produces 204PS of power and 500Nm of torque. All models are mated with nine gears and later on, there's a plug-in hybrid variant called the GLC 350 e 4MATIC with a combined power output of 319PS of power, 550Nm of torque, and 235kph of top speed.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe

Of course, if you're a speedo boy who wants to get to work quicker than the other guys at the office, there's a semi-high performance variant from Mercedes-AMG called the GLC43 Coupe, which comes with 9G-TRONIC gearbox, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and a 3.0L V6 twin turbo engine producing 367PS of power and 520Nm of torque that can get you from 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds. Simple as that and as for the dynamics, the GLC43 won't make you feel numb while on the road, no matter the weather forecast you heard from the news.

So, would you buy one, perhaps? The new GLC Coupe starts at 49,445 Euros, which is over four grand more than its chief rival, the BMW X4, but who cares about it? Who would ever want to have a four-door crossover coupe in the first place that trades practicality for sloping roofs? Only time will tell to decide the outcome but if you're not happy about the GLC Coupe, get a normal GLC-Class instead because it's way more like your auntie's Mercedes, only better.

Photo: Daimler AG

Mercedes-AMG GLC43

Time to give AMG credit because with thanks to the SLC43, almost any other Mercedes models in its range is joining the AMG bandwagon and whereas V8-powered 63 models and V12-powered 65 models are the stalwarts of the range while the "45" babies such as the A45, GLA45, and the CLA45 keep on rolling like grumpy babies scratching their diapers, the AMG 43 range continues to grow, perpetually making performance as its new norm, until the day comes where it can be one complete happy family.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43

One fine example is the brand new Mercedes-AMG GLC43, which is based on the brand new GLC-Class crossover, which replaced your auntie's favorite crossover, the GLK-Class, Because this semi-high performance crossover is made for those who believed that having an Audi SQ5 is becoming worrisome due to the ongoing problems with diesels right now, this is a much more enjoyable alternative despite being a crossover made for the weekend getaway.

As an AMG bearing the "43" moniker, the GLC43 comes armed with a 3.0L V6 twin turbo engine producing 367PS of power and 520Nm of torque while mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox. Although top speed is normally limited to 250kph, it can get out to 100kph in 4.9 seconds, which sounds very quick compared to the SQ5 despite its torque difference where the SQ5 sets the GLC43 apart.

While not in the mood to compare this to the SQ5, the GLC43 is an excellent all-rounder that balances what it works and what it plays to the beat of its tune. From its clever damping adjustment, clever suspension, and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the GLC43 is capable to make everyday feel like its weekends somewhere, despite the elements. It maybe a family car but best to warn the families that this is an AMG crossover and it's going to be very addictive for a crossover of such magnitude. It can be a decent daily driver on a normal basis but when the weekends kicked in, this is where the GLC43 unleashes its wild side as a semi-high performance midsize crossover that loves to make the embattled Audi SQ5 licked its rear bumper as a sign of bittersweet surrender.

The GLC43 is priced at 61,761 Euros, which is two grand more than the SQ5 competition model from Audi, which is less expensive but sounds like a bargain for a semi-high performance crossover that balances work and play at the same pace. So, even in its near sleeper styling and its turbocharged V6 power for a crossover, it's no surprise that the GLC43 from Mercedes-AMG could turn this segment from step zero to one and this could be a clear winner from the very start.

Photo: Daimler AG

BMW X1 F48 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

2016 BMW X1

As the crossover craze keeps on lingering since the dawn of civilization, BMW's range of crossovers are never far behind when it comes to update their lineup in various ways to keep them prepared for the competition ahead. One of it is the X1, now on its newly regenerated form, and while this crossover looks nearly identical to the previous model, what lies underneath is worth a tale to tell.

For this new generation, it now utilizes the UKL1 platform used on the sacrilegious BMW 2 Series Active Tourer/Gran Tourer, resulting to a front-wheel drive crossover that some Bimmer enthusiasts wouldn't agree on but because this is just a crossover, who cares about it. What this car is is like an oversized Mini Countryman but with some refined dynamics and a bigger space for five people and stuff at the back, so it's good but question is, does its front-wheel drivetrain worth it being a commoner's Bimmer? To show you the idea of what would the front-wheel drive BMW X1 feel like, you have to take a look at its chief rival for some inspiration and I found one...

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

This ain't your auntie's GLK because the GLK is dead and in replacement, the brand new Mercedes GLC-Class is born. Of course, the GLC is basically front wheel drive at first (only in a base model, that is) and when you experience it first hand, driving one of these is broadly similar to the new X1. However, when you gave these two crossovers a four-wheel drive setup, no weather will keep these two feeling moody, not even on a wet asphalt or at a sandy beach but dynamics can get a bit moody because of the mild driving feel that will impact its fun and usability. In other words, too much grip.

Although a little moody to drive, the four-wheel drive in the new X1 and the GLC really fits its cruising status as a family getaway vehicle, suitable on your next getaway to a faraway place or at the beach or at grandma's house. Anyway, let's not keep it too long because time to check out under the hood.

Sure, both the X1 and the GLC have different petrol and diesel engines available but let's narrow to something powerful and something economical. In the new X1, the most powerful version is the xDrive25i with its 2.0L Valvetronic turbo engine producing 231PS of power and 350Nm of torque, going from 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds and onwards to 235kph. The most economical in the range (and not always the wisest) is the sDrive18d with its 2.0L turbodiesel engine that promises fuel consumption of 4.1L/100km and CO2 emissions of less than 109g/km. Onto the GLC, the most powerful is the GLC 250 4MATIC with its 2.0L turbo engine producing 211PS of power and 350Nm of torque. 0-100kph takes 7.3 seconds and onwards to 222kph. Economical in the range? For now, it's the GLC 220 d 4MATC with its 2.1L diesel engine that promises combined fuel consumption of 5.0l/100km and CO2 emissions of less than 129g/km/

In comparison, looks like the new X1 bags it but the battle goes on for the GLC because pretty soon, it will unveil a more powerful AMG version as well as a more economical PHEV variant next year.

2016 BMW X1

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

In terms of pricing, these two German luxury crossovers are giving customers the stiff neck because the new X1 starts at 29,950 Euros while the new GLC starts at 44,506 Euros, meaning the X1 is a lot cheaper to own than the GLC but the question is, why would you want to have one? At either way, in its front-wheel drive state, both of these crossovers aren't what you call good but with four-wheel drive implemented, these crossovers synched to their lifestyles. Whether if its in tarmac, gravel, or snow, you would knew nothing would go wrong with them until its moody dynamics get the better of you. Try both and you decide.