Mercedes-AMG continues its plug-in hybrid push with a 671-horsepower performance SUV.
When it comes to electrifying performance cars, Mercedes-Benz believes there’s no silver bullet.
The automaker’s Mercedes-AMG performance division has already engineered EVs like the AMG EQE SUV and the S63 AMG E Performance sedan, a plug-in hybrid that pairs electric assist with one of the brand’s traditional V8 engines. AMG’s latest electrified model — a hot-rodded version of the GLC-Class compact crossover SUV and a rival to performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M and Porsche Macan — sits somewhere in between those extremes.
Arriving in showrooms in the second half of 2024 as a 2025 model, the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance, as it’s formally known, is a plug-in hybrid like the latest S63 — but one that uses electric power to compensate for a radically downsized engine. Instead of a big V8 like the S63 and last-generation GLC63, it uses a more economical turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Instead of treating electrification like necessary medicine, this AMG plug-in hybrid embraces its possibilities.Design and interior
The GLC63 applies subtle styling changes to an already subtle redesign of the base GLC, which debuted for the 2023 model year looking pretty much like its predecessor. To that nondescript base, AMG adds a new grille with its trademark vertical slats, larger front air intakes, a rear diffuser, prominent tailpipes, and some exterior badging. Only true car enthusiasts will likely notice these differences, which gives the GLC63 a bit of added cool factor.
Like other GLC variants, the GLC63 is available in standard SUV and coupe body styles. The term “coupe” traditionally refers to a two-door car, but Mercedes and fellow German automakers BMW, Audi, and Porsche have stretched that term to include four-door cars with low, sloped rooflines. These vehicles are still true coupes in the sense that they offer less rear headroom and cargo space than conventional SUVs.
In standard SUV form, the GLC63 offers comparable cargo space to similarly-sized luxury SUVs like the BMW X3 and Porsche Macan. That’s one of the great things about an AMG Mercedes: Underneath the performance upgrades, it’s still a regular car.
The interior follows a familiar but satisfying recipe. Mercedes’ current interior design theme looks sharp. The angled dashboard, freestanding screens, and large round vents give the cabin a distinctive look and convey that this isn’t an ordinary Honda or Toyota. AMG models get the expected performance-car callouts, including a mix of microfiber and Nappa leather upholstery and optional sport seats with added bolstering.Tech, infotainment, and driver assist
The infotainment system carries over from non-AMG GLC models, meaning it includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. Both are freestanding, with the touchscreen angled slightly toward the driver to create a more cockpit-like feel, according to Mercedes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard as well.
The screen setup and underlying Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) operating system are similar to other recent Mercedes models, such as the S-Class and C-Class sedans. As in those vehicles, it’s hard to find fault with the interface, which uses what Mercedes calls a “Zero Layer” arrangement that eschews menu pages for small widgets displayed side by side, or the graphics.
