The Mercedes-Benz GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE, introduced in July 2023, represents the pinnacle of performance within the X254 GLC SUV generation. This variant combines a high-output turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a potent electric motor, creating a plug-in hybrid system delivering a total of 680 horsepower. Positioned as the flagship model, it offers a significant step up in performance and technology compared to other GLC trims like the GLC 300 or the AMG GLC 43. It’s a direct competitor to high-performance luxury SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid and BMW X3 M Competition.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC SUV (X254) |
| Type | AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE (680 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4MATIC+ AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 170 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 275 km/h (170.88 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 294.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 441.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 6.1 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 4.8 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 12 km (7.46 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 12.7 kWh/100 km (20.44 kWh/100 mi, 165 MPGe, 7.9 km/kWh, 4.9 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 680 Hp |
| System torque | 1020 Nm (752.31 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 476 Hp @ 6750 rpm (239.1 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 545 Nm @ 5250-5500 rpm (401.97 lb.-ft. @ 5250-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M139 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Electric Assisted Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2310 kg (5092.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2885 kg (6360.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1530 l (54.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4749 mm (186.97 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2888 mm (113.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×26 mm |
| Front tires | 265/45 R20 |
| Rear tires | 295/40 R20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE is the M139 2.0-liter inline-four engine, a highly sophisticated unit already found in other AMG 63 models. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger with an electric auxiliary compressor to deliver 476 horsepower and 401.97 lb-ft of torque. Direct fuel injection and multi-port manifold injection optimize combustion efficiency. Crucially, this engine is paired with a 204 hp electric motor integrated into the rear axle. This rear-axle motor provides an additional 236.02 lb-ft of torque, enabling electric all-wheel drive. The 4.8 kWh battery pack, located under the trunk floor, allows for a limited all-electric range of approximately 7.46 miles. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission, a nine-speed automatic, is specifically tuned for rapid shifts and optimized performance. A wet clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, contributing to quicker response and improved efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the turbocharged engine and electric motor results in exhilarating acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in just 3.3 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 170.88 mph. The rear-axle electric motor provides instant torque, filling in any gaps in the power delivery from the gasoline engine. The AMG-tuned suspension and steering provide precise handling and a connected feel to the road. While the added weight from the hybrid system is noticeable compared to the standard GLC 63, the overall driving experience is significantly enhanced by the increased power and torque. The transmission’s quick shifts and the ability to operate in all-electric mode contribute to both performance and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including AMG Performance seats, a Burmester surround sound system, and the latest MBUX infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of Nappa leather and microfiber. Standard exterior features include AMG body styling, large alloy wheels (typically 21-inch), and performance brakes. Optional extras include carbon fiber trim, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a head-up display. The interior benefits from AMG-specific digital displays and customizable driving modes.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the increased power output. The suspension utilizes AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with adaptive damping, allowing for a comfortable ride and precise handling. The braking system consists of large, ventilated discs with AMG-branded calipers. The car also incorporates 4-wheel steering, enhancing agility and stability, particularly at higher speeds. The standard tires are high-performance summer tires, optimized for grip and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its exceptional performance and advanced technology. However, some reviewers have noted the complexity of the hybrid system and the relatively limited all-electric range. Compared to the standard GLC 63, the E PERFORMANCE variant offers significantly more power and torque, but also comes with a higher price tag. Fuel economy is improved thanks to the electric motor, but the overall weight of the vehicle is increased. Against competitors like the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology.
Legacy
The AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE represents a significant step forward in the development of high-performance hybrid SUVs. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the M139 engine has proven to be robust in other AMG applications. The sophisticated hybrid system, however, introduces additional complexity that could potentially lead to higher maintenance costs. In the used car market, these models are expected to hold their value well due to their performance capabilities and advanced technology. The integration of a powerful electric motor with a high-output gasoline engine sets a new benchmark for performance and efficiency in the luxury SUV segment.
