Unleashing the Beast: Astonishing 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance First Drive Review




Automakers worldwide are actively transitioning their lineups to electric vehicles, either through full battery electric vehicles (BEV) or hybrid options. Mercedes-Benz, a leading luxury brand, is no exception. While the smooth ride and fuel efficiency of electric motors align with Mercedes’ commitment to luxury, it poses challenges for the high-performance division, AMG. How does a brand known for its power navigate the “less is more” philosophy? This brings us to the 2025 Mercedes AMG GLC63 S E Performance, a powerful and eccentric performance SUV that incorporates AMG’s expertise to lead the way in electric performance.

Quick Specs

  • Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Hybrid
  • Output: 671 Horsepower / 752 Pound-Feet
  • Battery: 6.1-Kilowatt-Hour Lithium-Ion
  • 0-60 MPH: 3.4 Seconds
  • Base Price: TBD
  • On-Sale Date: Summer 2024

Lightning In A Bottle

The GLC63 S E Performance utilizes Mercedes-Benz’s M139L engine, which is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit with an electronically assisted turbocharger. On its own, this engine delivers an impressive 469 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque. However, in this vehicle, AMG combines the powerplant with a plug-in hybrid system featuring a synchronous motor on the rear axle, providing an additional 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The US-spec model is expected to generate a total output of approximately 671 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque. With this power, the GLC63 S E Performance can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 171 mph. The hybrid system’s 400-volt battery ensures fast power delivery, thanks to its innovative cooling system inspired by Mercedes’ Formula 1 cars. Although the all-electric range is not specified, the battery’s 6.1-kilowatt-hour capacity indicates that electric mode is best suited for shorter, slower trips. Power distribution in the GLC63 S E Performance is managed through a multi-clutch nine-speed automatic transmission, which works alongside active dampers, dynamic ride suspension, and rear-wheel steering to enhance stability and maneuverability. The vehicle offers eight preset modes that optimize the powertrain and suspension, tailoring the driving experience to various preferences and conditions.

Blinded Me With Science

The GLC63 S E Performance maintains its sleek mid-size SUV design while incorporating distinctive AMG elements such as a unique grille, air intakes, and rear diffuser panel. These additions enhance the vehicle’s appearance without overpowering its streamlined look. Inside, the AMG sport seats and the option to customize with carbon fiber accents emphasize the vehicle’s sportiness. The AMG steering wheel features capacitive inputs and function dials, further enhancing the driving experience. The GLC comes equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, including an 11.9-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch gauge cluster, and a customizable head-up display, powered by the MBUX operating system. While the abundance of features is impressive, the user interface may be overwhelming and distracting due to its animated graphics. However, voice commands help navigate the system. One inconvenience is the placement of the brake regen switch, which is hidden within one of the AMG’s wheel-mounted driver setting dials, resulting in difficulty locating it without prior knowledge.

Performance Discordance

Driving the AMG GLC provides an effective yet slightly disjointed experience. Upon starting the vehicle, the sound of the engine reminds occupants that it’s not a traditional powertrain. Despite Mercedes’ efforts to manipulate the engine notes, there’s still a noticeable difference compared to a combustion engine. From the driver’s seat, the digitally processed sounds clash with the analog sensations, resulting in a unique mix of industrial techno. While this doesn’t ruin the experience, it momentarily breaks immersion. Another area of slight discrepancy is the transmission, which functions well but occasionally draws attention with less-than-smooth gear shifts, especially in Comfort or Dynamic driving modes. Taking control with the paddle shifters resolves this issue, although the GLC may override manual input too quickly. However, the weakest aspect of the vehicle is its brake system. Although capable of bringing the SUV to a stop, the brakes demand a heavy foot to engage effectively. This becomes cumbersome when transitioning rapidly between braking and acceleration.


Reference

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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
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