2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 – 43’s Daddy

Mercedes decided to join the game of compact SUVs in 2008 upon revealing GLK model. GLK was quite boxy and odd-ish thing and let’s say that it wasn’t popular with buyers as other rivals. Also, it hasn’t received special attention from t company as it was never treated with AMG badge, besides the fact that same badge never passed ML and later GLE models. Since we had a successful visual revolution with successor or GLC and after even tiny GLA do have its hot version, we knew that GLC is not going to be left aside. And it wasn’t, as AMG GLC43 was introduced recently, but that wasn’t enough.

NOT ENOUGH?

When we say that AMG GLC43 is not enough, we are not trying to undermine its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 boosting 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. But on the other hand, we all know that it rivals Audi S moniker, but not RS or BMW’s M.

BMW is preparing to bring first ever M version of X3, Audi might do the same to Q5 as it offers RS Q3 already for some time, Jag is preparing preposterous F-Pace SVR, and finally, Porsche already has 400 hp Macan Turbo while Alfa with its Stelvio Quadrifoglio went 110 hp above. That is why AMG GLC43 is not enough, and that is why 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 just arrived.

GLORIOUS V8

When you use word AMG and number 63 in close proximity, you know that it is about newly developed 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. It powers AMG GT model, and it is currently replacing older 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in all AMG 63 models across the lineup. In this case, it is rated at 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. That is above Macan and everything else while staying short of Alfa’s 510 hp and monstrous 570 hp in future Jag. Acceleration time is quoted at 3.9 seconds which is by 0.6 seconds better than in milder AMG version.

But guess what? That is not all. If you forgot, there is something as letter “S” that could accompany AMG moniker, so in this case, when it does, GLC63 S pumps out 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 mph time is not yet known, but judging by the extra power, it should slide down by a couple of tenths. Let’s just note one more thing about this V8, and that is its irresistible burble. It maybe went down from 5.5-liter displacement to 4.0-liter one, but you’ll hardly find better-sounding force-fed V8, wherever you look.

OTHER PERFORMANCE STUFF

There are more things besides brute power, so you’ll have 9-speed automatic with brisk shifts, performance oriented 4Matic system or Merc’s word for AWD supported by LSD at the rear.

Furthermore, there is air suspension with adaptive dampers, which could be adjusted along with steering, transmission, and exhaust to suit your driving intentions. This AMG model also comes with 20-inch wheels which are by one inch larger than what you normally get.

VISUAL SIDE OF IT

Another shining point of this AMG model. When you look at this, previously alluring AMG GLC43 looks ridiculous. Let’s just start with Panamericana grille, first time used on SUV and it made it look just breathtaking.

Add to that incredibly more aggressive bumper and rear diffuser, and you’ll know what we are talking about. The cabin doesn’t differ much from weaker AMG sibling, you’ll have your special AMG trims with aluminum and carbon accents, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and sporty seats.

WORTHY OF CONSIDERATION?

Totally. 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 looks incredible with Panamericana grille and added a high portion of visual aggressiveness, it is immensely powerful, especially in S version. It is not going to be entertaining in corners as F-Pace, Macan or Stelvio, but it does bring a special dose of luxury to the mixture. That is not something that buyer usually seeks in this kind of vehicle, but hardly anyone would reject it. As for less priced AMG 43 version, if you have additional $15k or $70k in total, don’t even think about and go straight for this beast.