By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Mercedes-Benz USA
For 2020, Mercedes-AMG is updating the successful GLC 63 models with sharpened vehicle dynamics and optimized connectivity. The SUV receives a new distinctive light design as well as the MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays.
Exterior
On the exterior, the expressive front section with an AMG-specific grille widens towards the bottom and the vertical black slats immediately catch the eye. The restyled, slim, LED High Performance headlamps reinforce the visual presence with a flared look on the daytime running lamps.
The wide front bumper features a jet-wing design, combined with a large front splitter, which emphasize the power of these new models. With a fine-mesh grille, a view of the cooling technology is provided, a typical attribute seen in the world of motorsports, and a further differentiation from other GLC models. Wider wheel arch cladding at the front and rear also accentuate the dynamic appearance.
The side sill panels give the SUV a visually lower profile while elongating the overall lines. The wide rear bumper and diffuser dominate the muscular rear. The redesigned LED tail lamps also ensure an inimitable light signature with distinctive blocks in a backlit edge-light design. Two trapezoidal twin-tailpipes in high-sheen chrome round off the exhaust system.
Interior
The interior highlights an emphasis on excellent driving dynamics found throughout the new GLC 63 model. The driver and front passenger enjoy standard sports seats, featuring MB-Tex combined with DINAMICA microfiber, combining excellent lateral support and ideal driving ergonomics.
The instrument panel is trimmed in black MB-Tex with contrasting topstitching as standard. This high-grade look is enhanced by aluminum trim elements. The touchpad is flanked by the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch, and numerous AMG-specific controls, such as: the button for the 3-stage AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, 3-stage ESP and the button for the AMG Performance exhaust system with flap control.
An aggressive and sporty design, high grip surfaces, and a heavily contoured rim with intuitive operation are key attributes of the new AMG performance steering wheel, equipped as standard. It features a flat-bottom and is perforated in the grip area. The galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles allow an even sportier driving style with manual gear shifting.
The optional AMG Performance seats provide optimal lateral support thanks to the special design of the seat side bolster and backrest. The performance seats also lend the interior an even sportier character with their integrated head restraints. The seat heating ensures pleasant seating comfort even during a hot summer day.
The new MBUX infotainment system helps make the vehicle well suited for everyday use. Whether it’s operated via the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, or through the voice control, the operating system of the GLC 63 is as versatile as it is flexible. All options enable the control tasks to be carried out as conveniently, quickly and appropriately to the situation as possible.
The trailblazing voice control activated with the words Hey Mercedes is also on-board. Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX recognizes and understands nearly all sentences from the fields of infotainment and vehicle operation, even if they are expressed indirectly; The driver receives visual information via the 12.3-inch instrument cluster on the left and the 10.25-inch touchscreen display on the right. With three AMGspecific display styles of Classic, Sport or Supersport, it brings vehicle functions into vivid display.
Performance
The 4.0-liter eight-cylinder biturbo engine is a well-regarded power plant found in other high-performance AMG models. A characteristic feature is the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder V. The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction and optimal response. The spray-guided direct fuel injection system ensures clean and efficient combustion with high thermodynamic efficiency. Fast-acting piezo injectors enable multiple injections to be delivered to the engine on demand and with high precision.
The unique and powerful V8 engine sound comes courtesy of an exhaust system with adjustable flap technology. The flaps are controlled by a map and automatically operate depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program, the power demanded by the driver and the engine speed. The Performance exhaust system also allows the sound to be modulated at the press of a button.
A wet start-off clutch replaces the torque converter on the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission. It saves weight and optimizes response to accelerator pedal commands, especially when accelerating or coming off the power; The multiple downshift function allows for quick bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the “Sport” and “Sport+” drive programs makes for an even more exciting driving experience. Defined ignition adjustments also provide faster gearshifts in the other modes. In all modes moving off occurs in first gear in order to guarantee an exhilarating driving experience.
Manual mode can be selected using a separate button in the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected drive program, and the driver can now change gears using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.
Summary
With its distinctive appearance and innovative driver assistance systems, the AMG GLC 63 SUV offers the best from the world of Mercedes-Benz. The exterior design captivates with its wide and sporty visual appearance. The interior combines luxury and user-friendliness in an uncompromising way with a larger display. In addition, the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience multimedia system impresses with intuitive and versatile operating options such as touch and the optimized Voice Control system.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 SUV MSRP starts at $73,750.00, the one I drove included, Designo Cardinal Red Metallic Exterior Paint ($1,080.00), Black Nappa Leather Seats ($2,590.00), AMG Performance Steering Wheel in Dinamica ($600.00), RWK 21 inch AMG Multispoke Wheels ($1,000.00), AMG Drive Unit ($400.00), AMG Track Pace ($250.00), Panorama Roof ($1,500.00), Inductive Wireless Charging and NFC Pairing ($200.00), Parking Assistant Package ($1,290.00), and it came in at $83,655.00 including Destination and Delivery ($995.00).
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
