Mercedes-AMG GLC 2024: 500kW turbo hybrid SUV confirmed for Australia

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Mercedes-AMG has announced the high-performance derivatives of the new GLC-Class range, the AMG GLC43 and the GLC63 S E Performance. 

Gone is the venerable 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine from the last GLC. In its place, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine will sit in its place for both high-performance variants. 

Beginning with the 43 variant, this model will be powered by the same 310kW/500Nm powertrain that features in the pocket-rocket AMG A45 S. With 48-volt mild-hybrid power assistance, this powertrain can produce an additional 10kW of power. 

Headlining the AMG GLC range will be an uprated hybrid version of the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, but this time outputs are boosted to the extreme, with the variant producing a combined 500kW of power and up to 1020Nm of torque. 

The combustion engine produces 350kW and 545Nm alone, making it the most powerful four-cylinder engine in the world, according to Mercedes-AMG. 

The new Mercedes-AMG GLC variants are scheduled to launch in Australia during the second quarter of 2024. 

The new Mercedes-AMG GLC variants detailed 

First off, the AMG GLC models will stand out from the rest of the GLC-Class range thanks to AMG-specific detailing such as an AMG-specific grille and front apron, sports air intakes and chrome plated trim. 

AMG sports seats are standard, however leather and nappa leather upholstery is optional. An AMG steering wheel is also standard and is finished in Nappa leather and is a flat-bottom unit. 

Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system features on the interior that includes AMG-specific displays and information. AMG Track Pace, which is a data logger for time spent on track, is standard on the GLC63 S E Performance, but is optional for the GLC43. 

The Mercedes-AMG GLC43 

Mercedes-AMG says that the GLC43 (and the GLC63) are fitted with electric exhaust gas turbochargers. 

These work by integrating a small electric motor onto the turbocharger itself and can drive the shaft of the turbocharger, improving response from idle speed and across the entire rev range. This system also reduces turbocharger lag. 

The Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is the mild-hybrid of the two AMG variants announced, and thanks to its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 48-volt belt-driven starter generator, it can produce 310kW/500Nm. 

The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance 

The GLC63 S E Performance takes things up a notch with an uprated 2.0-litre engine with outputs of 350kW/545Nm, but paired with an additional electric motor on the rear axle total system outputs rise to 500KW/1020Nm. 

Helping the GLC63 along is a 6.1kWh battery pack that powers an onboard electric motor driving the rear axle – via a two-speed transmission – with peak power of 150kW. 

The GLC63 S E Performance is a plug-in hybrid, meaning you can plug the car in to charge when the battery is depleted. The vehicle uses 400-volt electrical architecture. 

Mercedes-AMG states that the GLC63 can be driven on electric power only, however the range is a claimed 12 kilometres. 

The flagship performance GLC is further controlled via a nine-speed multi-clutch transmission. Its maker claims that “drive power of the electric motor is also transferred to the front wheels when needed” via the sophisticated fully variable 4Matic+ AWD system.  

Performance of the GLC63 S E Performance version is claimed to be just 3.5 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint. Top speed is electronically limited to 275km/h.