CAR OF THE WEEK

Soulful Super SUV: Meet The Unrivalled GLC63 AMG

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When compact luxury SUVs first began their rise, the market was all about practicality. But Mercedes-AMG had different ideas. With the 2019 GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Premium 5dr 9G-Tronic, AMG didn’t just build a performance SUV — it sculpted a sports car in SUV clothing, proving that utility can still be ferociously fun.

1. Heart and Soul: AMG’s Hand-Built 4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo Engine

Slide behind the wheel and the first thing that hits you is that distinctive V8 rumble. Under the bonnet sits a hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 — a rarity in an era increasingly dominated by electrification and four-cylinder downsizing. This powerhouse churns out a whopping 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, giving the GLC 63 S supercar-like thrust.

This isn’t just about straight-line speed — although a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.6–3.8 seconds and an electronically limited 174 mph top speed certainly impress. What truly defines it is how that power is delivered: smooth yet savage, ready to rip at a moment’s notice.

2. Dynamic 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive and AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-Gearing

Power is nothing without control, and AMG’s Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system brilliantly manages traction and torque distribution. Unlike conventional AWD systems, it can send nearly all torque to the rear when called for — giving this SUV a playful, almost drift-like character when pushed.

Paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed automatic transmission, gear changes are rapid and purposeful, with manual paddle shifts that let you wrest control away from the computer when you feel bold.

3. Design That Roars as Loudly as It Goes

From the outside, the GLC 63 S announces itself with purposeful aggression. Its stance is muscular, punctuated by quad exhaust tips, AMG-specific body flourishes, and a grille that hints at the performance within.

Inside, the cabin blends refined luxury with motorsport cues — Alcantara accents, AMG steering wheel, and driver-centric displays that bring a racing spirit to everyday driving.

4. Handling That Defies Expectations

For an SUV tipping into the two-tonne class, the GLC 63 S handles with surprising poise. AMG Ride Control+ adaptive suspension adjusts damping in milliseconds, offering comfort on city streets and confidence when the road curves.

This duality — composed yet combative — sets it apart from rivals. Where many performance SUVs feel “big and fast,” the GLC feels alive, eager to change direction and reward an enthusiastic driver.

5. Cultural Impact: A Sports Car in SUV Clothing

In 2019, the GLC 63 S stood out because it refused to play by the usual SUV rules. While competitors chased utility and hybrid trends, AMG served up a raw, visceral driving experience with a proper V8.

This car became a favourite among enthusiasts who wanted performance without surrendering practicality — a rare blend that sparked spirited discussions online and in enthusiast circles alike. It reminded the world that SUVs can still be fun, not just functional.

Conclusion

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Premium isn’t just another SUV. It’s a bold statement: power, poise, and personality packed into a practical package. Whether carving canyon roads or cruising city streets, its blend of performance and presence remains engaging — a true AMG icon in the compact luxury segment.

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