The iconic performance and sports car brand, Mercedes has unveiled the latest addition to its lineup: the new GLC Coupé. This exceptional vehicle not only rounds off the immensely successful midsize series from Mercedes-AMG but also adds another jewel to its model portfolio, seamlessly blending dynamic elegance with signature AMG features.
You have the choice between two formidable model variants: the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé, a groundbreaking performance hybrid SUV coupé boasting 500 kW (680 HP) system output at the get-go, and the entry-level GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé, equipped with 310 kW (421 hp) power and a brief power boost of 10 kW (14 hp) through the belt-driven starter generator (RSG). The extensive standard equipment includes rear-axle steering, all-wheel drive, AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission with a wet starting clutch, and AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping.
Stylishly Sporty Design:
The sporty silhouette of the Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé is its defining feature, seamlessly flowing towards the rear. The headlights integrate elegantly with the top of the AMG-specific radiator trim, accentuating the vehicle’s width. The jet wing design of the AMG front apron, featuring substantial air inlets, vertical fins, and additional flics, creates an independent and striking appearance. Precise side edges emphasize the sporty proportions and muscular wheel arches.
The two-part taillights visually widen the rear view with a black, dark red connecting element. The GLC 43 features an AMG-specific rear apron with a diffuser look, while the GLC 63 S adds an additional diffuser board. Both models are adorned with double tailpipe trims, round on the GLC 43 and trapezoidal on the GLC 63 S, reinforcing the vehicle’s powerful demeanor.
Sporty Elegance Inside:
Inside the cabin, the Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé boasts distinctive AMG elements for a sporty yet elegant ambiance. AMG seats upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather and MICROCUT AMG microfiber feature unique graphics and covers, adding a sporty touch. Optional upholstery in leather and Nappa leather with an embossed AMG coat of arms on the front headrests is also available. You can elevate your interior even further with the optional AMG performance seats.
The standard AMG Performance steering wheel, wrapped in Nappa leather in the GLC 43 or Nappa leather/MICROCUT microfiber in the GLC 63 S, is flat-bottomed, perforated in the handle area, and equipped with silver-colored aluminum shift paddles. Two round AMG steering wheel buttons facilitate quick and precise operation of various driving dynamics functions and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs. To complete the luxurious atmosphere, AMG sports pedals, AMG floor mats, and illuminated door sills with AMG lettering are also included.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment:
The MBUX infotainment system is equipped with various AMG-specific displays and functions. These include independent displays in the instrument cluster, a portrait-format multimedia central display in the center console, and an optional head-up display. The AMG exclusive “Supersport” style allows you to display various content through a vertical structure, including a setup menu showcasing current chassis or transmission settings. You can even have a navigation map or consumption data displayed in “Supersport” style.
Integrated into the system is AMG TRACK PACE, standard in the GLC 63 S and optional for the GLC 43. This data logger records over 80 vehicle-specific data ten times per second during track driving, including speed, acceleration, steering angle, and brake pedal operation. It also provides lap and sector times, along with additional training and analysis tools, to enhance your driving experience.
Innovative Powertrain:
The heart of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé models is the groundbreaking AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine combines innovative technologies with high performance and impressive efficiency. It’s crafted with meticulous care at Mercedes-AMG’s Affalterbach location, following the “One Man, One Engine” principle.
The engine, known as the M139l (with ‘l’ for longitudinal installation), stands out as the world’s only series engine charged with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger via a 48-volt on-board electrical system, which also includes the belt-driven starter generator (RSG). This system, derived from Formula 1™ technology, delivers incredibly responsive performance across the entire speed range, resulting in a more dynamic driving experience and enhanced efficiency.
E PERFORMANCE Hybrid Powerhouse:
The GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé, in particular, boasts a formidable powertrain. The M139l engine produces 350 kW (476 hp) at 6,725 rpm, making it the most powerful series-produced four-cylinder in the world. The maximum combustion engine torque of 545 Nm is achieved between 5,250 and 5,500 rpm. This powerplant is paired with a permanently excited synchronous electric motor, a high-performance battery developed in Affalterbach, and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive.
Together, this system delivers a staggering 500 kW (680 hp) system output and a maximum system torque of 1,020 Nm, translating into exhilarating driving performance. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h takes a mere 3.5 seconds, and the propulsion doesn’t stop until it reaches an electronically limited top speed of 275 km/h.
P3 Hybrid Layout:
In the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé, a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor is positioned on the rear axle, integrated with an electrically switched two-speed transmission and an electronically controlled rear axle limited-slip differential in a compact Electric Drive Unit (EDU). This layout, known as P3 hybrid, offers multiple advantages.
The electric motor directly powers the rear axle, providing immediate propulsion when needed, whether it’s for brisk starts, rapid acceleration, or swift overtaking maneuvers. This layout allows the electric motor to provide full torque, ensuring agile launch behavior. Moreover, the integrated, electronically controlled rear axle locking differential enhances performance, enabling agile corner exits and optimal traction for enhanced safety.
In cases of rear axle slip, the electric motor can also transfer power to the front wheels as necessary for increased traction. This is made possible via the mechanical connection of the fully variable all-wheel drive through the cardan shaft and drive shafts of the front wheels. This rear axle positioning improves weight distribution in the vehicle, laying the foundation for exceptional handling.
The AMG hybrid system excels in recuperation efficiency, minimizing mechanical and hydraulic losses in the engine and transmission. The two-speed transmission on the rear axle, with its carefully coordinated gear ratio, ensures a seamless transition from high torque for spirited starts to sustained performance at higher speeds. An electric actuator engages second gear at around 140 km/h, maximizing the electric motor’s effectiveness.
Sporty Performance and Handling:
In the entry-level model, the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in-line engine delivers 310 kW (421 hp) at 6,750 rpm, with a peak torque of 500 Nm at 5,000 rpm. In certain situations, the system provides an additional 10 kW (14 hp) boost from the belt-driven starter generator (RSG). The second-generation RSG functions as a mild hybrid, allowing for features such as coasting and recuperation while enhancing comfort. The GLC 43 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G Transmission:
Power is seamlessly transmitted through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission, where a wet starting clutch replaces the traditional torque converter. This reduces weight and optimizes response to accelerator pedal inputs, especially during sprinting and load changes. The software ensures extremely short shift times and quick multiple downshifts when needed. The “Sport” and “Sport+” driving programs offer a particularly engaging shifting experience, including the RACE START function for optimal acceleration from a standstill. In “Comfort” mode, the ECO start/stop function activates automatically, and “Coasting” can be engaged within the “Individual” mode.
Edition 1 for Exclusive Appeal:
For the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé, an exclusive Edition 1 variant is available at launch. It can be ordered in the striking exterior colors of graphite gray magno or high-tech silver magno for one year from the market launch.
The Edition 1 features a magno charcoal foil that visually extends along the vehicle’s sides. The 21-inch AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design are finished in matte black, with high-sheen rim flanges providing a striking contrast. Yellow-painted brake calipers from the AMG high-performance composite brake system add a pop of color.
Inside, the interior showcases a black and yellow contrast, with exclusive black Nappa leather upholstery featuring yellow decorative stitching and “Edition 1” logos on the front headrests. Yellow seat belts, AMG carbon trim elements with yellow stitching, and an AMG Performance steering wheel with yellow accents complement the theme. The interior is further adorned with an Edition badge and specific AMG floor mats with yellow stitching and “Edition 1” labeling.
To protect the valuable vehicle, customers receive a custom-made AMG Indoor Car Cover featuring the “Edition 1” logo. This cover boasts a breathable outer layer made of tear-resistant synthetic fiber fabric and an anti-static inner layer made of flannel, offering protection against dust and scratches while the vehicle is stored in a garage.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé models combine breathtaking performance, innovative hybrid technology, and dynamic design to deliver an exceptional driving experience. With a focus on sportiness, precision, and agility, these models are designed for enthusiasts who seek the perfect blend of power, efficiency, and style. Whether you choose the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE Coupé or the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé, you can expect an exhilarating ride that reflects the passion and expertise of Mercedes-AMG.
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