2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63: High-Performance SUV With V8 Power Unveiled
Mercedes-AMG has introduced the 2018 GLC 63 ahead of its official debut at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) next week.
The midsize high-performance sports utility vehicle (SUV) is available as the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and the GLC 63 Coupe, both of which can be availed as standard or S-model variants.
Powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine, the GLC 63 delivers 469 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the GLC 63 S yields 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models come with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT nine-speed sports transmission and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. They can go from 0 to 62 miles per hour (mph) in just 4.0 and 3.8 seconds, respectively, and attain a top speed of 155 mph.
Mercedes-AMG has equipped the new GLC 63 with numerous high-performance components including an air spring suspension, adaptive adjustable damping, a highly capable braking system and speed-sensitive sports steering. The exhaust system, comprised by two high-gloss chrome-plated twin tailpipes, also delivers an emotive sound.
To take advantage of all these features, owners will be able to choose from four different drive modes via AMG Dynamic Select — Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. The S variant also comes with an additional Race drive program.
In terms of design, the 2018 GLC 63 is said to be the first Mercedes-AMG Performance vehicle to feature the Panamericana grille, which is usually only seen in AMG GT models.
The high-performance SUV's athletic and muscular exterior is reflected in the cabin. Notable interior elements include sports seats in Artico man-made leather and Dinamica microfiber and the instrument panel with black Artico trim, accent stitching and aluminum accents. The S model comes with a Performance steering wheel, AMG badges on the head restraints and the AMG instrument cluster with red accents.
The German automaker has announced that a special Edition 1 model will be available during the launch of the 2018 GLC 63. It features the Night package, which includes high-gloss black exterior accents, the AMG sports exhaust system, roof rails in matte black, heat-insulating dark tinted glass, sports stripes in yellow or matte gray, aerodynamic equipment and 21-inch cross-spoke forged wheels.
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 will make an appearance at NYIAS 2017 next week before going on sale in June. First deliveries will be in September.