Mercedes-Benz has an exhaustive list of model names and trims, including two new 2025 hybrid sport utility vehicles at the extremes of the carmaker’s GLC lineup. The 350e plug-in is joined by fellow newbie, the AMG 63 E Performance.
The latter expands the reaches of mid-sized performance SUVs, offering 671 horsepower. The GLC 63 pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle via a 6.1-kWh battery pack.
The gas-hybrid configuration features 469 traditional horsepower; the remainder of the hefty total is provided by the electric motor. The combination also means 752 lb-ft of torque. It’s an automotive oxymoron. It’s a family hauler advancing with race car speed via a nine-speed automatic transmission. It replaces a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8.
Drive modes include Comfort, Electric and three performance options, Sport, Sport+ and Race. The options adjust throttle response, stability control, suspension tuning and steering effort. Regardless of choice, the GLC 63 follows the rest of the German manufacturer’s lineup. Acceleration is confident, smooth and quick. Mercedes touts the SUV can advance from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.4 seconds while using one of the hybrid driving modes.
The new offering is also heavy, nearly 5,100 pounds. The GLC 63 has steel coils, paired with retuned adaptive dampers for a greater range of adjustability. Active anti-roll bars, rear-wheel steering, 15.4-inch front and 14.6-inch rear brakes are all new.
Technology includes the oddly named MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The voice command system works efficiently and its convenience is further appealing. Use the words “Hey, Mercedes.” The command will operate the vehicle’s navigation system to adjusting the temperature. The system also includes Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.
Also standard: a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel display and an 11.9-inch center touchscreen. Front and rear seats are well constructed, comfortable and spacious. The seats also have the usual complement of features, power adjustments to a memory function, and multiple heat options to top-quality lumbar support.
Beyond its luxury and performance, the GLC 63 is still classified as a sport utility vehicle. With the second row of seats folded, there’s 56.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The rear seating offers 37.4 inches of legroom. The BMW M50, a top competitor, has 36.3 inches of rear legroom and 67.1 cubic feet of cargo space.
The highest-performing GLC offering is also the most expensive.
With its performance, prowess and persona, the AMG Performance Design package ($4,000) includes an increased top speed (174 mph). The AMG Track Pace performance data display and recording software, plus red brake calipers and a steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather and microfiber are part of the deal.
The Performance Seat Package ($3,700), Active Ride Control ($3,400) and the 21-inch multi-spoke wheels ($2,850) are among the seven costly options. One worthy package is nearly a bargain: Driving Assistance ($1,950) includes active lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, automatic lane change, evasive steering assist and several additional safety features.
With its traditional Mercedes-Benz luxury and AMG power, the new GLC 63 will find its buyers. The manufacturer’s renowned legend is warranted.
Still, some specs warrant a pause. The new SUV gets a combined 20 miles per gallon. Its electric-only range is six miles. The starting MSRP is $86,050. Option packages, single-item add-ons and fees push the price to $115,145.
Mercedes-Benz and its high-performance AMG brand don’t sell bargain-priced vehicles. Perhaps brand loyalists don’t care, but the GLC 63 E stretches pricing norms, even by luxury standards.
Does 671 horsepower in a medium-sized SUV make sense for any reason? Does spending $115,000 on a mid-size SUV make sense?
Only a few thousand consumers per year may think so. And maybe that’s all the German carmaker was seeking.
James Raia, a syndicated automotive columnist in Sacramento, also contributes business, lifestyle and sports content to several print and online publications. E-mail: [email protected].
