The Mercedes-Benz GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is the high-performance variant of the X253 GLC-Class SUV, produced from 2019 to July 2022. Representing the pinnacle of the second-generation GLC (introduced in 2017), the 63 S model delivers substantial performance through its hand-built AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine. This variant occupied the top-tier position within the GLC lineup, offering a significant step up in power and handling compared to the standard GLC models and even the AMG GLC 43. It directly competed with performance SUVs like the Porsche Macan Turbo and the BMW X3 M.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC SUV (X253, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG GLC 63 S V8 (510 Hp) 4MATIC+ MCT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 293-298 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 283 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 261.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 359 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 510 Hp |
| Power per litre | 128.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 177 DE 40 AL |
| Engine displacement | 3982 cm3 (243 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2590 kg (5709.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal, 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Length | 4682 mm (184.33 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1663 mm (65.47 in.) |
| Front overhang | 848 mm (33.39 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 961 mm (37.83 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 164 mm (6.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission MCT AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 235/55 R19 Rear wheel tires: 255/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG GLC 63 S is the M177 DE 40 AL 4.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, hand-assembled in Affalterbach, Germany, features a “hot-vee” configuration where the turbochargers are located within the V of the engine, resulting in a more compact design and improved responsiveness. It utilizes direct fuel injection and employs two twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver 510 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque between 1750 and 4500 rpm. The engine also incorporates a cylinder deactivation system (AMG Cylinder Management) that shuts down cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 during partial-load operation to improve fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission uses a wet multi-plate clutch pack instead of a traditional torque converter, providing faster and more direct gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 63 S delivers exhilarating performance. Its 0-60 mph time of around 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph are indicative of its capabilities. The 9-speed transmission is well-tuned for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising. The AMG-tuned suspension, featuring adaptive dampers, provides a firm yet controlled ride. The 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased, enhancing agility and providing excellent traction. Compared to the GLC 43, the 63 S offers a significantly more powerful engine and a more aggressive driving experience. The manual mode allows for precise gear selection, while the automatic mode provides smooth and efficient shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG GLC 63 S came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including AMG-specific styling elements (body kit, exhaust system), a sport steering wheel, AMG performance seats, and a premium sound system. Interior appointments included Nappa leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and brushed aluminum pedals. Optional extras included a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior was focused on a sporty aesthetic, with a clear emphasis on performance-oriented design.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 63 S features a reinforced chassis and AMG-tuned suspension to handle the increased power. The suspension utilizes air springs on the rear axle, providing adjustable ride height and damping characteristics. Braking duties are handled by large, ventilated discs on all four wheels, with AMG-branded calipers. The braking system provides exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. The vehicle also incorporates an electronic stability program (ESP) with selectable modes to allow for varying levels of intervention.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG GLC 63 S was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its potent performance, luxurious interior, and refined driving dynamics. However, its fuel economy was often criticized, as expected for a high-performance V8 SUV. Compared to the GLC 43, the 63 S offered a substantial performance upgrade but came at a higher price point. It competed directly with rivals like the Porsche Macan Turbo and BMW X3 M, offering a compelling alternative with its unique blend of luxury and performance.
Legacy
The M177 engine, while powerful, is known to require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes and cooling system upkeep. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission, while offering quick shifts, can be more expensive to repair than traditional automatic transmissions. On the used car market, the GLC 63 S holds its value relatively well due to its performance credentials and AMG badge. However, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and be prepared for potentially higher running costs compared to lower-trim GLC models.
