2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance SUV Review: A V8 icon slashes the cylinder count and goes plug-in hybrid. Scheiße, what is the world coming to!

If any model epitomizes the essence of highly effective, loud, and rugged V8 engines, it’s undoubtedly Mercedes-AMG. Nonetheless, the automotive panorama is ever-evolving, and even probably the most performance-driven producers should adapt.

In response to this shift, Mercedes-AMG is transitioning from conventional V8s to plug-in hybrids, with the launch of the second-generation Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Efficiency being the newest instance.

For years, Mercedes-AMG has been a pioneer in high-performance SUVs, having outlined the section a long time in the past. Over time, AMG SUVs have remodeled from purely efficiency autos into extra full choices. The GLC 63 marks a big shift, changing the previous 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with a dynamic four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine, complemented by two electrical motors, a nine-speed moist multi-plate clutch computerized transmission, and all-wheel drive. This new powertrain delivers a staggering 500 kW and 1020 Nm, surpassing its predecessor, though a few of that torque is amplified by way of a two-speed rear axle.

The efficiency metrics are spectacular: the GLC 63 can dash from 0 to 100 km/h in simply 3.5 seconds—half a second faster than earlier than—and achieves a prime velocity of 275 km/h, marking a notable enchancment. Furthermore, the claimed gas effectivity has drastically improved, with common consumption dropping from 12.2 L/100 km to 7.3 L/100 km, together with diminished emissions, aligning with present automotive tendencies towards sustainability.

Regardless of the give attention to efficiency, the GLC 63’s electric-only vary of 14 km and its 6.1 kWh battery pack point out a dedication to hybrid expertise. Nonetheless, it recharges solely by way of AC at a most of three.7 kW. Inside, the automobile boasts luxurious options together with Nappa leather-based sports activities seats, expansive digital shows, and Burmester encompass sound, all priced at $191,814 plus on-road prices. For these on the lookout for a barely much less useful and extra fashionable possibility, the Coupe variant prices $198,415.

Even with its value tags, each fashions stay competitively priced compared to their predecessor V8 fashions, with solely a modest improve of beneath $10,000. The GLC 63 comes with a five-year/limitless km guarantee and a six-year/100,000 km guarantee on the high-voltage battery, with service intervals of 20,000 km or 12 months.

When it comes to efficiency, the GLC 63 S E Efficiency undeniably delivers. The mix of electrical motors and turbocharging gives a near-constant output of energy, appropriate for each high-speed driving and on a regular basis commuting. The automobile handles properly however can really feel a bit frantic in sportier settings.

Driving traits do current a brand new expertise, particularly for these used to the growl of AMG’s V8. The GLC 63’s sound profile is sort of completely different, resembling a full of life automobile with sudden agility for its dimension, weighing in at 2.3 tonnes.

The soundness and management of the GLC 63 are enhanced by options like electrically-assisted all-wheel drive, an electronically managed limited-slip differential, adaptive suspension, and a number of drive modes tailor-made for numerous driving experiences. Nonetheless, in contrast to the C 63, it lacks a rear-wheel drive lock for drifting.

Whereas the efficiency is notable, it does elevate questions concerning the claimed gas economic system. Although it achieves higher effectivity than the older V8 mannequin, real-world utilization tends to vary, with consumptions within the excessive teenagers throughout spirited driving.

In the end, the GLC 63 S E Efficiency is a testomony to engineering prowess, demonstrating what a hybrid can accomplish. It melds velocity and luxurious in a bundle that’s undeniably distinct, but quintessentially Mercedes-AMG.

SCORE: 3.5/5

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