It is only natural for prototypes of the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 to drop a large portion of their camouflage since the new GLC was revealed. Our spy photographers caught the performance flagship of the GLC lineup in its most revealing form yet, showing the go-faster bits to go along with its extremely powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The latest test car to be spotted has just
the bumpers and side sills wrapped, leaving little to the imagination.
Actually, those are the only different body panels compared to the regular GLC
range, although things like the lowered suspension, the larger wheels, the
beefier brakes, and the wider tracks certainly help in making a difference as
well.
The next-generation GLC 63 is expected to
get a body kit that’s model-specific, to distance itself further from the
lesser AMG Line models. Differences include the larger intakes on the front
bumper, the sportier Panamericana grille, the extended side sills, the larger
rear spoiler, and the more prominent rear apron with quad exhaust pipes.
Overall, the GLC 63 looks like a properly hot SUV.
This time we also got a glimpse of the
interior, which predictably looks almost identical to the lesser GLC models. We
can see the 12.3-inch free-standing digital instrument cluster, the heavily
inclined 11.9-inch central touchscreen on the center console, and the color
heads-up display. The AMG gets a sportier set of bucket seats, and new
suede-style upholstery for the flat-bottom steering wheel while we should expect
sporty accents like metal and carbon fiber bits.
What is more important is the plug-in
hybrid powertrain that lies under the bonnet of the SUV. A turbo 2.0-liter
four-cylinder engine will be replacing the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 of the
previous generation, just like in the new C63. However, thanks to the
assistance from the rear-mounted electric motor, power output will be
increased, resulting in improved performance credentials. Mercedes-AMG has
previously stated that the new plug-in hybrid powertrain will make in excess of
644 hp. This would render the GLC 63 significantly more
powerful than the rival BMW X3 M.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is expected to
debut later in 2022, in both regular SUV and coupe-SUV forms, joining the also
upcoming C 63 sedan and estate.
