An even faster Merc GLC?
That's right, as if the 367hp Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 wasn't quick enough. Seems not, as it's about to be usurped at the head of the GLC table by these bad boys, the GLC 63 4Matic+ twins. Actually, technically we should be saying quads.
Quads?
Indeed. Not only will the madcap 63 badge be available on both the GLC SUV and GLC Coupe body styles, it'll be offered in standard and S states of tune too, making this a four-strong family affair.
Ok, let's start with the engine(s).
You won't be surprised to hear that the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 AMG powerplant is pressed into service here once again with its 'hot V' mounted turbos and a soundtrack that few engines, naturally aspirated or otherwise, can match. It does without the dry sump lubrication of the AMG GT, but it still claims numbers of 476hp and 650Nm as standard, or 510hp and 700Nm of torque in the tyre-smoking S specification.
And will it smoke its tyres?
That's not yet entirely clear (though we expect the answer is "yes"). The GLC 63 shares a lot of its hardware with the mental Mercedes-AMG E 63, including its swanky new nine-speed automatic transmission and (very) rear-biased 4Matic+ four-wheel-drive system, though there's no mention in the press material of its propensity for going sideways. This is an SUV after all. It should be pretty handy in the bends though.
Why's that?
Well, three-chamber air suspension is standard, as is adaptive three-mode damping. There are big brakes and 19-inch wheels (brakes and wheels are larger on the S), speed-sensitive power steering with a variable ratio rack and a limited slip differential for the back axle (mechanical as standard, electronically controlled on the S). All pretty promising stuff.
And how do I tell the 63s apart from the 43s?
Easy: check out the sharp Panamericana grille up front, shared with the recently updated AMG GT sports car line-up. There are plenty of other clues too (chunkier bumpers, special wheels, spoilers, etc.), but that's the most obvious, unless of course you've gone for the wild-looking Edition 1 with its yellow highlights...
When can I see more?
The GLC 63 makes its debut later this month before the order books open in June. Expect the first customers to get their cars in September.
Shane O' Donoghue - 4 Apr 2017
