The segment of sporty SUVs is booming. No wonder then that the automakers take every opportunity to find a niche here and there that can be filled with a suitable model. Mercedes introduces the new flagship of the GLC range at the New York International Auto Show - "NYIAS" for short - in mid-April.
The GLC 63 is available as a conventional SUV and as a coupé variant. It is powered by the same V8 twin-turbo engine with almost four liters of displacement, which also provides propulsion in the AMG GT sports car. In the GLC 63 the power pack provides 350 kW / 476 PS. The S version manages even on 375 kW / 510 PS. The torque is at 650 Newtonmeter for the weaker GLC and at 700 Newtonmeter for the top model. The standard sprints from zero to 100 km / h are completed in 4,0 and 3,8 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically regulated 250 km / h. The power of the four-liter engine is sorted by a Neungang automatic transmission with intermediate gas function and finally delivered to all four wheels. An electronic rear axle limited slip differential ensures that the power does not go up in smoke. For the right sound of the eight-cylinder, a flap exhaust system with four tailpipes is mounted under the GLC 63. A high-performance brake with 39-centimeter discs delays the almost two-ton SUV.
When styling, the GLC 63 stands out from its less motorized family members. Above all, the grille in the "Panamericana" style, as it is also found in the front mask of the AMG GT, show at first glance, which glues GLC here in the rearview mirror. The wide front apron and the large splinter make the aggressive-looking face of the GLC 63 perfect. The coarse grid cooling holes, like the grill, are meant to be directly related to Mercedes motorsport activities. In the side view, the view of new sill panels and 19 inch large wheels falls. Optionally, these can grow up to 21 inches. The diffuser and the spoiler lip at the rear ensure a high recognition value even when looking at the back.
In the interior, the driver and passenger sit on sports seats. Decorative elements made of aluminum and, at least in the S variant, a performance steering wheel and AMG logos on the headrests should ensure a high-quality ambience. For adequate ride comfort is an air suspension with adaptive dampers on board.
In addition to the standard equipment options, Mercedes offers a launch version called "Edition 1". There are the "Night Package" with glossy black accents on the outside, yellow or gray flank stripes, matt black 21 Zöller and yellow stitching and Rautensteppungen in the cockpit included. The market launch for the GLC 63 is planned by Mercedes-AMG for the September 2017. (Max Friedhoff / SP-X)
