2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC debuts with 675 horsepower hybrid version

The all-new 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC has debuted globally and it comes in two different high-performance trims–the gasoline-powered GLC 43, and the GLC 63 S E Performance. Both of these get a whole host of improvements on the tech side while one becomes AMG’s first-ever performance hybrid model.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC

Note that this global launch comes a month after the Philippine debut of the 2023 Merdeces-Benz GLC. However, these new ones will be sold in other markets first. Note likewise that these are the AMG versions of the facelifted 2nd-generation X254 GLC that’s available locally so they all still share the same Mercedes-Benz MRA 2 platforms. 

Exterior

The exterior of the 2024 AMG GLC is a mixture of sophistication and sportiness. Its front end gets a frowny, downturned slatted AMG-specific grille, while its lower front bumper houses air curtains, a large air intake, and a touch of chrome.

It's a fair bit sportier than the non-AMG model but it gets some elegant touches as well

Flanking the grille are two sharp-looking LED headlamp clusters. This is then capped by a muscular clam-shell hood. 

Looking at the sides of the AMG-made GLC, one will see that it still carries the same roofline and silhouette as the non-AMG model. Then again, it gets a sportier flavor thanks to its integrated side sill panels, and its set of AMG-specific forged 21-inch wheels. 

The rear then sports a beefy diffuser-style rear bumper and a quad tailpipe setup. The taillights though, appear to have been carried over from the non-AMG GLC. 

AMG GLC from the rear

For further customization, AMG provides several optional kits for this new crossover model. Among these is the Night Package featuring high-gloss exterior bits. The Night Package Plus then adds dark chrome accents on the vehicle’s radiator grille and fins. 

The AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Pack meanwhile, gives what it implies: plenty of carbon fiber parts. This includes an insert for the side sill panels, the front air wings, and one for the vehicle’s rear trim. 

Interior

Plenty of AMG-only pieces enhance the interior. For starters, the driver is given an alternate digital gauge cluster as well as an AMG performance steering wheel clad in Nappa leather. The buttons on the steering wheel are likewise altered for faster usage. Sportiness is further improved thanks to AMG sports pedals, AMG-branded floor mats, and illuminated door sills. 

A view of its cockpit

Like the steering wheel, all seats of the AMG GLC are wrapped in Nappa leather. Each seat features an embossed AMG crest as well. 

For serious performance-oriented drivers, the brand also offers AMG Performance Seats as an option. These provide further bolstering, whilst still being able to offer a cushy and comfortable ride. 

It has room enough for five occupants

For now, an exhaustive list of all the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC is yet to be released. We are certain though, that many features found on the non-AMG model will also be present. This includes a power tailgate, 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, power-adjustable front seats, and ambient lighting.

Tech & Safety

Making its way to the dash of the sportier GLC is an AMG-specific infotainment system. It gets the usual automotive touchscreen features found on a premium car, but it also adds a “Supersport” setting. This delivers driver-focused content like suspension or transmission settings in a vertical format.

Most of its interior surfaces including the seats are clad in Nappa leather

Likewise available to the AMG GLC is a Track Pace device. This one’s optional, but it can record more than 80 vehicle data points including speed, steering angle, lap times, and race track sector times. 

This AMG model includes an improved electronic stability program (ESP). On the hybrid version, this system modulates the torque delivered by the electric motor whenever it detects wheel spin. In doing so, the ESP no longer needs to throttle the vehicle’s combustion engine.

Engine & Performance

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC gets two different engine options. For the GLC 43, it uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline- 4gasoline engine that’s capable of making up to 416 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. 

The higher-spec GLC 63 S E Performance meanwhile, also gets a 2.0-liter turbo four-banger, but this is paired with a 400-volt battery and a permanent synchronous electric motor. Alone, the combustion component is rated at 469 horsepower and 545 Nm of torque. The electric motor meanwhile, can deliver an additional 201 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. Combined, the entire system for the GLC 63 S E can churn out a whopping 671 horsepower and 1,019 Nm of torque. 

The GLC 63 S E can make 671 horsepower

Both powertrain options are paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Power is then sent to all four wheels. 

According to Mercedes-AMG, the GLC 43 can do zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The GLC 63 S E Performance meanwhile, boasts a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds. The top-spec hybrid also has a claimed top speed of 275 kmh. For the hybrid variant, its electric-only range is yet to be shared by the company.

Ride comfort and handling on this powerful crossover are handled by aluminum double wishbone suspensions with adaptive damping. Braking is then done via six-piston fixed caliper disc ventilated disc brakes for all four wheels. It also comes with an electronic parking brake. 

The more powerful hybrid version provides an electric-only mode

Pricing details for the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC have not been revealed by the German marque just yet. So if you want more updates on this uber-powerful ride, keep it here on Philkotse.