The redesigned 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was revealed in June and in March the compact crossover spawned its more rakish GLC-Class Coupe body style.
AMG versions of both crossovers are still out testing, and our latest spy shots show the new GLC 63 Coupe. The regular GLC 63 is also out testing. We know this is the AMG because of the four square-shaped exhaust tips at the rear, Panamericana grille up front, large cross-drilled brake rotors, and lowered suspension.
For its next GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coupe, AMG will replace the outgoing generation’s V-8 with a plug-in hybrid powertrain relying on a turbo-4 engine for its internal-combustion component. The new setup, signified by E Performance branding, made its debut recently in the redesigned 2024 C 63 S range topper, now branded the C 63 S E Performance to reflect its hybrid powertrain.
The engine is an upgraded version of the 2.0-liter turbo-4 found in AMG’s current crop of compact cars. Thanks to the addition of an electric-aided turbocharger, output from the engine should be boosted to 469 hp for the new GLC 63 S E Performance. There will also be an electric motor integrated with the engine in mild-hybrid configuration to power ancillary features, as well as serve as a starter motor.
Mercedes-AMG E Performance
On top of all this, there will be a much more powerful motor (up to 201 hp) at the rear axle to take combined output to a maximum 671 hp. This rear motor will be mated to its own 2-speed transmission. A 6.1-kwh battery will ensure a small electric range will be possible. A similar setup, albeit with a V-8 engine, features in the 2023 GT 63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe and 2023 S 63 E Performance.
Though it’s yet to be confirmed, we can expect tamer GLC 63 E Performance and GLC 63 E Performance Coupe models to be launched with a detuned version of the plug-in hybrid powertrain. Combined output in this case should hover around 550 hp, which is still up significantly on the 503 hp of the outgoing GLC 63 S grade.
Another upgrade we can look forward to will be rear-wheel steering.
2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe spy shots – Photo credit: Baldauf
GLC 43 and GLC 43 Coupe models are also coming. These models should come with the same setup as the 2023 C 43, specifically a 2.0-liter turbo-4 complete with electric-aided turbocharger and mild-hybrid configuration. The setup is good for 402 hp in the C 43.
Look for the new GLC 63 S E Performance and GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe to start sales in late 2023 or early 2024. The new GLC 43 duo should arrive about the same time.
