Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its latest offerings, the 2024 GLC 43 Coupe and the 2025 GLC 63 Coupe, adding sporty flair to the redesigned Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class compact crossover lineup. These AMG variants will be available in two flavors: the GLC 43 and the GLC 63 S E Performance.
The coupe-like versions of these models were introduced by Mercedes on Monday, complementing the standard-body counterparts previously presented in July. The GLC 43 models are set to hit showrooms as 2024 models early next year, with the GLC 63 S E Performance models following suit in 2024 as 2025 models. As for pricing details, they will be disclosed closer to the on-sale date.
The decision to adopt the coupe-like body style sacrifices some practicality but compensates with a sportier aesthetic that will undoubtedly appeal to certain buyers. According to Michael Schiebe, AMG’s CEO, these coupes are aimed at customers seeking a sporty lifestyle and dynamic design paired with impressive performance.
In terms of cargo space, the GLC 43 Coupe offers a maximum of 52.6 cubic feet, whereas the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe, due to its battery and rear-mounted motor, provides slightly less at 47.1 cubic feet. Notably, the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe is a plug-in hybrid, while the GLC 43 Coupe incorporates mild-hybrid technology.
Under the hood, the GLC 43 Coupe shares its powertrain with the latest C 43 sedan from the 2023 model year. This setup features a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine with a Formula 1-style electric-aided turbocharger, combined with a mild-hybrid system capable of delivering an additional power boost. This results in a peak output of 416 hp, enabling the GLC 43 Coupe to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, with a governed top speed of 155 mph.
The GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe, on the other hand, takes performance to another level. It boasts a peak output of 671 hp generated from a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine with an electric-aided turbocharger and a mild-hybrid system at the front, along with a single electric motor at the rear. This substantial power increase, over 200 hp more than its predecessor, propels the electrified compact crossover from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 171 mph.
Beyond sheer power, the GLC 63 S E Performance’s powertrain is intelligently designed to deliver power and torque precisely when needed. The rear electric motor can provide instant torque for swift off-the-line acceleration. Additionally, thanks to a 6.1-kwh battery pack, the crossover can operate on electric power alone for short distances. This battery pack incorporates technology inspired by Formula 1, enabling high power outputs and rapid recharging, thanks to direct cooling of the cells.
However, it’s worth noting that the added technology does come with a weight penalty, although Mercedes hasn’t disclosed the exact curb weight. Nevertheless, this added weight contributes to improved weight distribution compared to the outgoing GLC 63, which featured a front-mounted V-8 engine.
Both the GLC 43 Coupe and the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe benefit from a fully variable mechanical all-wheel-drive system, rear-wheel steering, and a quick-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, they come equipped with high-performance brakes, speed-sensitive steering, and adjustable dampers as standard features. An active anti-roll system is also available for the GLC 63 S E Performance, enhancing handling at the limits of performance.
In terms of aesthetics, both models showcase typical AMG styling cues both inside and out. Although the visual distinctions between the two are subtler than in previous generations, AMG has focused on external details like exhaust tip designs, wheel and brake packages, and unique badging to differentiate them. Inside the cabin, premium elements such as nappa leather, sporty seats, and AMG-branded pedals and floor mats create a luxurious atmosphere. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment system feature unique AMG graphics, and the drive mode selector, known as Dynamic Select, is standard, offering five programs for the GLC 43 and eight for the GLC 63 S E Performance. Among these modes is one designed for track use that allows for the deactivation of the electric stability control system.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe
What are the key features of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe and 2025 GLC 63 Coupe?
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe and 2025 GLC 63 Coupe offer sporty elegance and high-performance. They come with powerful engines, including a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with electric-aided turbocharger in the GLC 43 and a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with electric-aided turbocharger and a rear electric motor in the GLC 63 S E Performance. Both models feature all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, and a 9-speed automatic transmission. The GLC 43 Coupe has a mild-hybrid system, while the GLC 63 S E Performance is a plug-in hybrid.
When will the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe and 2025 GLC 63 Coupe be available for purchase?
The GLC 43 Coupe is scheduled to arrive in showrooms early next year as a 2024 model, while the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe will follow later in 2024 as a 2025 model. Pricing details will be revealed closer to the on-sale date.
What distinguishes the coupe-like body style of these models?
The coupe-like body style sacrifices some cargo space for a sportier aesthetic. The GLC 43 Coupe offers a maximum cargo space of 52.6 cubic feet, while the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe provides slightly less at 47.1 cubic feet due to its battery and rear-mounted motor.
What is the performance of these models?
The GLC 43 Coupe produces 416 hp, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a governed top speed of 155 mph. In contrast, the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe boasts a peak output of 671 hp, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and reaching a governed top speed of 171 mph.
What sets the powertrains of these models apart?
The GLC 43 Coupe features a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with a Formula 1-style electric-aided turbocharger and a mild-hybrid system. On the other hand, the GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe combines a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with an electric-aided turbocharger, a mild-hybrid system, and a rear electric motor. This innovative design enables precise power and torque delivery.
Do these models offer advanced technology features?
Yes, both models include a fully variable mechanical all-wheel-drive system, rear-wheel steering, and a 9-speed automatic transmission. They also come with high-performance brakes, speed-sensitive steering, and adjustable dampers as standard. Additionally, an active anti-roll system is available for the GLC 63 S E Performance, enhancing handling.
What distinguishes the interior and exterior styling of these models?
Both models showcase typical AMG styling cues, with subtle visual differences between them. External details like exhaust tip designs, wheel and brake packages, and unique badging set them apart. Inside, premium touches such as nappa leather, sport seats, and AMG-branded pedals and floor mats create a luxurious atmosphere. Unique AMG graphics appear in the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The drive mode selector, Dynamic Select, is standard, offering various modes, including one for track use that allows deactivation of the electric stability control system.
More about Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe
- Mercedes-AMG Official Website
- Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Overview
- Mercedes-Benz Official Website
- Formula 1 Official Website
- Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance Sedan
2 comments
GLC 63 S E Performance is INSANE! Over 670hp? That’s a beast on wheels. Can’t wait to see it in action.
Plug-in hybrid sounds cool, but does it really save fuel? How’s the electric-only range? Need more eco-friendly options!