2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63

This version of the GLC is backed with a 4.0 L V8 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The punchy V8 cranks out 469 hp of power and 470 pound-feet of torque, which is transferred to all wheels of the cars. The SUV body and V8 engine set the car up against the crossover marvels like Alfa Romero Stelvio Quadrifoglio, BMW X6 xDrive50i, and the Maserati Levante S.

The middle child of the AMG-fied GLC crossover, the AMG GLC 63 comes with ample power, sharp handling, and a curvaceous coupe roofline. The V8's valor cannot be missed as the car dashes of in a split second, its like you are actually driving a coupe and not a crossover. You get a 9-Speed automatic transmission which transfers the engine's power with ease. Other than the enhanced displacement, you get an upgrade in brakes, headlights, variable torque distribution, and mechanical limited-slip differential and more.

Trims	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 Coupe
MSRP	$73,150
Feature
	ECO Start/Stop system
	NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology
	AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
	Race Start function
	Exclusive front axle and wider track
	AMG Sport Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL
	ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist
	3-stage Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
	AMG High-performance Braking System
	AMG Sport Exhaust System
	Electromechanical power steering
	Direct-Steer System

Whether an SUV -- even one as sleek as the AMG GLC Coupe -- should be classified as a "performance coupe" is a philosophical question we'll get to after we finish counting the angels on this pinhead. As a driver's car, though, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC43, GLC63, and GLC63 S are winners. -kbb

Engine and Transmission

The high riding GLC 63 is backed with the AMG special V8 engine with 4L displacement. However, crazy 9-speed automatic transmission makes it perfect for highway cruising even with a weight like that. The engine pumps out 469 hp of power and 479-pound-feet of torque. Monstrous power with refined agility defies the basic SUV demeanor making it's a healthy oddball for the class.

Models	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
MSRP	$73,150	$79,995	$77,700	$86,100
Engine	4L Biturbo V8	2.9L 505HP V6 Twin-Turbo	4.4L 32 Valve V8	3.0L Twin Turbo V6
Transmission	9- speed automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Power	469 hp	505 hp	445 hp	424 hp
Torque	479 lb-ft	443 lb-ft	480 lb-ft	428 lb-ft

The SUV might come with at a lower price but there is no shortage of power. The car powers are better than many of its direct rivals, and the 9-speed gearbox really makes a difference. However, adding more bucks to your beget will land a more powerful Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio.

Acceleration

If I say, an SUV weighing over 2 ton can gain a speed of 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, you will mock it like a clown. But the Merc redirected the joke by actually making it possible. With one push the AMG GLC 63 will throw you in your seat as it rips off the tarmac. The car reaches the quarter of a mile in 12.5 second time which is impressive for the class.

Models	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
0-60 MPH	3.8 sec	3.9 sec	4.6 sec	5.0 sec
Quarter mile	12.5	12.9 sec	12.8 sec	13.6 sec
Engine	4.0L	2.9L	4.4L	3.0L
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	7.1	10.6	10.3	11.0

So far the AMG GLC 63 is the quickest car in the lot, its 3.8-second acceleration shows the car's ability to sprint and win. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is second to the Merc on this one but loses its charm on the quarter-mile run. Though its impressive Maserati Levante S is impressive but comes last with the 5-second acceleration.

Ride and Handling

The AMG GLC 63 coupe looks slim more like a refined version of the usual GLC SUV, but don't let the looks deceive your eye, its one heavy car. The tire smoking V8 and the taut suspension merges power with the capability to handle that power. `As you are driving in comfort mode, you will the effortless driving factor, but your button in the sport of sport plus mode, all the car senses are heightened to an extreme level giving it a more sporty feel. Apart from that, the mental 9-speed automatic transmission is not for show, it delivers smoother shifts and better control.

 On the other hand the AMG GLC 63 is a factory fresh perfection, you don't need to choose a lot just tag in the Driver Assist Package for some enhanced vehicular aid like Distronic Plus, Pre-Safe Brake, Pre-Safe Plus and more.

Braking

The Mercedes braking is equally efficient as its acceleration, the pedal feel is long but easy to modulate, you will get the hang of it in no time. The optional summer tires add a grippy feel and the big bite halts the car in 116 feet, which isn't that intriguing when you look at the market. Its 4475 pounds makes qualifies it for the heavyweight class but its drivability says otherwise.

Model	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
Brake Front(in)	14.2	14.2	14.4	15.0
Brake Rear(in)	12.6	13.8	13.6	13.0
Curb weight(lbs.)	4475	4360	5080	4650
60-0 MPH (ft.)	116	120	107	113

The GLC 63 weight blend it right into the performance SUV class, it's not like the other heavy cars like X6. However, the X6 took a lesser distance to stop which is truly inspiring. The Stelvio comes took about 4 feet more to stop making it the last car in the braking regime.

Towing capacity

Looks like the 2018 Mercedes AMG GLC 63 though has a powerful engine, cannot drag much weight on its back. It can tow upto a maximum weight of 4850 lbs

Model	Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
Capacity (lbs)	4850	3,000	6,000	5,900
Power Train	4L	2.9L	4.4L	3.0L

The BMW X6 and the Meserati Levante S can be called the class leaders in terms of towing capacity with about a 1000 lbs more than that of the GLC 63. However, Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio though the most powerful in the class seems to lag even behind the GLC 63 SUV. 

There might be all sunshine with the AMG GLC 63 but you won't save much keeping it as a daily driver. Though it might feel right according to the class in the city, the fuel-guzzling V8 will give you nothing over 15 mpg of city and 22 mpg of highway mileage. What, can you say performance doesn't come cheap.

Model	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
MPG (city)	15	17	15	14
MPG (highway)	22	24	21	19
MPG (combined)	18	21	17	16

Mercedes might have delivered aptly for performance SUV class, but the market has seen better. The Alpha Romeo Stelvio's 21 mpg of combined mileage is so far the best for the lot, while the Levante's 16 mpg combined is least figure for the efficiency department.

The COMAND tech interface has a steep learning curve but offers many features and adjustable settings. The GLC coupe's main drawback is the fastback roofline, which compromises rear-seat headroom and visibility out the back. -edmunds

Seating and Comfort

The spacecraft looks followed it way to the cabin. The wooden craft, carbon fiber finish, and aluminum touches give it a robotic look. You will find plenty of space and comfort in the front cabin but the back seat passengers endure the ill effects of the coupe roofline. The legroom and headroom feel cramped and awkward for taller people.

The SUV features 40.8 inches of legroom space and 41.9 inches of legroom space which as aforementioned before delivers ample of comfort. The back seat's 37.3 inches of legroom is pretty poor for the lot and the downsized coupe roof miniaturize the bad headroom.

Model	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	41.9/57.3/40.8	40.2/60.2/36.6	39.3/60.5/40.3	40.2/55.8/38.5
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.5/-/37.3	38.9/58.6/35.9	37.2/57.9/35.6	39.1/55.9/34.6

All cars feature similar dimensions for interior spacing, no sense of competition here.

Infotainment System

The GLC 63 features the Mercedes COMAND infotainment, the 7-inch screen sits over the tri-air conditioning vents. The screen is controlled through a rotary nob along with several other standard features like navigation, USB, Bluetooth and more. With some extra dough, you can enhance your overall experience with optional features like a touchpad controller, Android Auto, and Apple Car plays a more.

• The central controller and 7-inch color display
• FrontBass system
• Burmester Surround Sound System
• Bluetooth audio streaming
• Prewiring for GARMIN MAP PILOT
• Dual USB audio ports
• HD Radio receiver
• SiriusXM Radio with 6-month All Access trial
• Media Interface
• Hands-free Bluetooth interface
• SD card reader

Cargo Space

The coupe roofline may clog up the headroom, but its wider tailgate can swallow a couple of golf bags for your weekend escapade. It's 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume blends right into the SUV norms, this space can be expanded by folding down the second-row seats to unlock the car's full 49.4 cubic feet potential.

Model	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
Behind 2nd Row (ft. Cube)	17.6	18.5	26.6	19.4
Behind 1st Row (ft. Cube)	49.4	56.5	59.7	57.0

While the 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space is right for the basic SUV shell, but the competition has broken through a long time ago. The X6 might not have the power but it nailed practicality with its 26.6 cubic feet. However, there is not much difference between the 3 with the rear seats down, but the AMG GLC 63 falls short.

The exterior style of the Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe is why folks will buy it over the GLC SUV, and it's hard to argue against it. It's a good-looking car for the most part, although the idea of a "coupe" profile on a high-riding SUV still takes some getting used to. -kbb

Dimensions and Weight

Starting from the front, the AMG GLC 63 features a diamond grill with Merc's tri-star logo. The firmness of SUV combined with the curvaceous coupe design makes resembles a posh spacecraft from the latest star wars movie. From the back, it looks like a plump C Class with a more refined character.

The svelte looks on the GLC 63 stretch 186.9 inches long and 76 inches wide. With the SUV body, the height of 62 inches gives it a daunting look.

Model	Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 63 SUV	Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio	BMW X6 xDrive50i	Maserati Levante S
Curb weight(lbs.)	4475	4360	5080	4650
Length(in)	186.9	185.1	193.8	197.0
Width(in)	76.0	77.0	78.3	77.5
Height(in)	62.1	66.3	67.0	66.1
Ground clearance(in)	6.2	8.1	7.8	9.7
Wheelbase(in)	113.1	111.0	115.5	118.3
Track width(in) F/R	66.3/65.7	61.2/63.3	64.7/67.2	63.9/66.0

There isn't a lot to compare in this lot, all cars measure the same with the Levante being the longest and the widest car. However, the BMW x6 was crowned the tallest SUV, the reason behind its high ground clearance where the GLC 63 falls short at.

Safety and Reliability

The AMG GLC 63 has not been tested by both the NHTSA and the IIHS. But to hold its own in safety, the makers have backed the car with many active safety features like Collision prevention, adaptive brakes, blind spot monitoring and more.

• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Crosswind Assist
• LED Daytime Running Lamps
• LED headlamps and taillamps
• Rearview camera
• PRE-SAFE
• Seat belt technology
• 7 airbags
• Adaptive braking technology
• Antilock Braking System (ABS)
• Brake Assist (BAS)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS)
• Trailer Stability Assist
• Aluminum and high-strength steel body structure
• Advanced Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• SmartKey with KEYLESS-START
• Antitheft alarm system with remote panic feature
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Heated windshield washers
• Electric parking brake

Mercedes AMG GLC 63 Coupe vs BMW X6 xDrive50i

The X6 is widely known for its aggressive looks and practical features. But the Mercedes arsenal is backed by similar weapons and some tricks of its own. The GLKC 63 is priced lower but deliver some extra ponies of power, while the X6 is the more capacious SUV with a good mind for practicality. Your choice of SUV will largely depend on your preference of the brand. But wait, why about the interior? Ignoring the Mercedes plush interior is like slagging the whole car.

Mercedes AMG GLC 63 Coupe vs Alfa Romeo Stelvio Qudrifoglio

This SUV is an overachiever in power and its monstrous exhaust might even make the AMG sound like a cub, also it's more spacious and practical than the GLC. However, the GLC comes on a lesser price and with a more plush interior. The C-class luxury can clearly be seen on this GLC. So, if you are looking for the best of the performance luxury class go for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, and the package of performance, luxury, and SUV practicality is what you seek then the AMG GLC 63 coupe is your car.

Mercedes AMG GLC 63 Coupe vs Maserati Levante S

With the $86,100 sticker price, the Maserati Levante S is the most expensive SUV in this lot. However, there is not enough power or features to back this price. You will find more power, better features, and drivability in the AMG GLC 63. The only thing where the Merc is slammed is its modest cargo space, on the other hand, the Levante is roomier and boot space larger than the GLC.

The 2018 Mercedes Benz GLC 63 Coupe's performance largely resemble its SUV counterpart. The AMG powerplant takes the center stage with its monstrous power and razor shape agility. As much the coupe roofline looks good, it eats up most for the cabin space which is nicely preserved in the SUV version. The plush interior establishes these highlanders taste in luxury, which is unmatched for the class.

At this price, the AMG GLC 63 coupe is a reasonably priced crossover. If you want to enjoy every aspect of the luxury compact SUV then the AMG GLC 63 is the ideal choice.