Mercedes-AMG unveils radical 503bhp GLC 63 SUV

Mercedes-AMG has added another high-powered production vehicle to its line-up with the radical V8-engined GLC 63 SUV.

It is based on Mercedes' mid-size SUV platform and retains most of the base car's styling cues, although the lowered ride-height and muscular arches clearly separates it from its entry-level relative.

Under the bonnet sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine derived from the company's AMG GT sports car. Power output comes in two variants, a 469bhp base model and 503bhp in the sleeker coupe body shape, with peak torque entering at 516lb-ft.

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Mercedes has yet to announce acceleration figures for the AMG-fettled GLC, although it has confirmed that its top-speed is limited to 155mph.

Power can be distributed between the front and rear axles to improve handling in different driving conditions, says AutoExpress, but the all-wheel drive system is more rear-bias and "in most circumstances the GLC 63 is rear-wheel-drive".

There are also a host of driving modes, adds the magazine, with different functions changing "engine response, suspension set-up, gear shift times, the steering and traction control settings and also the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system".

Autocar reports that the GLC 63 has been "confirmed for UK delivery in September", although prices have yet to be announced.

"At market launch an Edition 1 model will be offered with a unique combination of equipment," which "includes a night pack with black details on the car's exterior, matt black 21in alloys and a spoiler", adds the mag.

More details are expected when Mercedes-AMG reveals the GLC 63 to the public at the New York Motor Show, from 14 to 23 April.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe: Reviews and specs

20 December

Mercedes has extended its AMG performance range with the new GLC 43 Coupe.

Set to rival the BMW X4 and Porsche Macan SUV, the new model combines the elevated driving position of the GLC SUV with a sportier aesthetic.

Under the bonnet sits a 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 engine developing 362bhp and 383lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic gearbox sends power to all four wheels and launches the coupe from zero to 62mph in 4.9secs.

Along with sharper AMG styling tweaks on the outside, there's a hefty amount of carbon fibre and gloss black highlights on the inside to give a sporty feel, although these are likely to be interchangeable with a healthy options list.

With adjustable ground clearance and automatic self-levelling, can the GLC 43 Coupe offer SUV buyers a sporty alternative?

Here's what the critics think.

Reviews

The GLC's V6 bi-turbo engine doesn't offer the same excitement as one of the firm's iconic V8 units, says Auto Express, but it has a "suitably rousing" soundtrack and is loud enough to justify the AMG badge.

The 0-62mph time is "nothing to be embarrassed about", it adds, while the "swift performance" matches models fitted with the same engine.

While the 4Matic system delivers power to all four wheels, the GLC Coupe feels "more rear-driven" than the likes of the Porsche Macan and BMW X4, continues Auto Express. However, Macan drivers will have "more fun" due to its responsive steering and "neater handling".

Autocar says the GLC Coupe combines "the practicality of an estate" with the "all-terrain ability of an SUV". Critics of the design will find it "infuriatingly hard to criticise" its driving ability thanks to "revisions" to the car's air suspension.

However, it's low roofline means drivers are sacrificing "an enormous 200-litres of additional space" over the regular SUV, the magazine adds, which means it feels like an entry into a driving category that is more "show than go".

Prices

At £50,960, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe is £3,000 more than the regular GLC SUV, but nearly £12,000 cheaper than the range-topping Porsche Macan Turbo.