The Mercedes-Benz GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE, introduced in September 2023, represents the pinnacle of performance within the C254 GLC Coupe range. This plug-in hybrid variant combines a high-output turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 680 horsepower. It’s positioned as the flagship model, offering a blend of luxury, advanced technology, and exhilarating performance, aimed at buyers seeking a high-performance SUV coupe. The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE is a key component of Mercedes-AMG’s strategy to electrify its entire lineup, showcasing its commitment to both performance and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC Coupe (C254) |
| Type | AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE (680 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, 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 | 3.3 kg/Hp, 304.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.2 kg/Nm, 456.4 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 | 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) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Maximum revolutions of the electric motor | 13500 rpm |
| 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 |
| Torque | 545 Nm @ 5250-5500 rpm (401.97 lb.-ft. @ 5250-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 139 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2860 kg (6305.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1335 l (47.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4792 mm (188.66 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2076 mm (81.73 in.) |
| Height | 1603 mm (63.11 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the rear wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the front wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×26 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 265/45 R20 Rear wheel tires: 295/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9.5J x 20 Rear wheel rims: 10J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE is a high-performance plug-in hybrid SUV coupe based on the C254 GLC platform. Introduced in 2023, it represents a significant leap in performance and technology for the GLC range. It builds upon the foundation of the standard GLC Coupe, but distinguishes itself with a potent powertrain, upgraded chassis components, and a host of performance-oriented features. The “E PERFORMANCE” designation signifies Mercedes-AMG’s hybrid technology, integrating an electric motor into the drivetrain for enhanced power and efficiency. This model aims to compete with rivals like the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid and BMW X5 xDrive50e.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated as the M139. This engine is heavily boosted by an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, producing 476 horsepower and 401.97 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes direct injection and multi-port manifold injection for optimal combustion efficiency. The electric motor, positioned on the rear axle, adds another 204 horsepower and 236.02 lb-ft of torque. The combined system output is a formidable 680 horsepower and 752.31 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a relatively high 9:1 compression ratio. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission, which features a wet clutch pack instead of a traditional torque converter for faster and more direct shifts. The 4.8 kWh battery pack is located under the trunk floor, providing an all-electric range of approximately 7.46 miles.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE delivers exceptionally quick acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. The electric motor provides instant torque, filling in any potential turbo lag from the four-cylinder engine. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission offers rapid gear changes, contributing to the car’s dynamic performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, allowing for confident handling in various conditions. While the four-cylinder engine may not have the traditional sound associated with AMG’s V8 engines, the hybrid system provides a unique and engaging driving experience. The car offers various driving modes, including Electric, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Race, each adjusting the powertrain and chassis settings to suit the driver’s preferences. The rear-axle electric motor contributes to a unique torque vectoring capability, enhancing agility and stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including AMG Performance seats, a Nappa leather interior, and a Burmester surround sound system. The interior features AMG-specific styling cues, such as a flat-bottom steering wheel and unique trim elements. Standard technology includes the MBUX infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, a digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display. Optional extras include carbon fiber trim, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a panoramic sunroof. The exterior features AMG-specific body styling, including a distinctive front grille, aggressive bumpers, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE features an upgraded chassis compared to the standard GLC Coupe. It incorporates AMG Ride Control+ air suspension, which provides adaptive damping for a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension geometry has been optimized for performance, and the car features a stiffer stabilizer bar. The braking system consists of ventilated discs all around, with larger rotors and calipers compared to the standard GLC Coupe. The front brakes measure 390×36 mm, while the rear brakes are 370×26 mm. The car is equipped with ABS, electronic stability control, and a 4-wheel steering system for enhanced handling and agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE has been generally well-received by automotive critics, who praise its impressive performance, advanced technology, and luxurious interior. Some reviewers have noted that the four-cylinder engine lacks the emotional appeal of a V8, but the hybrid system’s performance benefits are undeniable. Compared to the standard GLC Coupe and other trims, the 63 S E PERFORMANCE offers significantly higher performance and a more sophisticated driving experience. Its fuel economy is also improved thanks to the plug-in hybrid system, although the focus remains on performance rather than maximizing efficiency. Compared to competitors like the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE offers a compelling combination of power, luxury, and technology.
Legacy
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of AMG’s performance SUVs. It demonstrates the brand’s ability to deliver exhilarating performance while embracing electrification. The long-term reliability of the hybrid powertrain remains to be seen, but Mercedes-Benz has a strong track record of building durable and reliable vehicles. On the used car market, the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE is expected to hold its value well due to its high performance and advanced technology. It is likely to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a high-performance SUV coupe with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
