Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance division unveils the facelifted GLC 63 at the 2019 New York auto show, calling it the fastest SUV ever to have lapped the Nürburgring’s 12.9-mile (20.8-km) Nordschleife circuit.
Sold in both SUV and coupe body styles, the ’19-model-year GLC 63 receives a series of subtle changes, most of which are focused exterior styling and interior upgrades.
New to the midsize Mercedes-AMG SUV models are redesigned LED headlamps featuring revised internal graphics as well as reworked LED taillamp graphics and twin tailpipes in a new trapezoidal design. Buyers also can order the facelifted GLC 63 with new optional 21-in. wheels and a graphite gray magno exterior paint.
The most significant upgrades are found inside. Included is a revised instrument cluster, the Mercedes-Benz MBUX infotainment system with touchscreen, and voice and optional gesture control. There’s also a new AMG steering wheel and additional upholstery options.
Power for the facelifted GLC 63 4Matic and GLC 63 4Matic Coupe continues to be provided by AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0L gasoline V-8. Output remains unchanged at 469 hp and 442 lb.-ft. (599 Nm) of torque, while S models up the ante to 503 hp and 516 lb.-ft. (700 Nm).
Drive is channeled through AMG’s 9-speed Speedshift MCT automatic gearbox and a fully variable 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. As an upgrade, all models come as standard with an additional “slippery” drive program for damp or wet conditions as well as an electronically controlled locking differential.
AMG quotes a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.8 seconds, with top speed limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), though it can be increased to 174 mph (280 km/h) with an optional Driver’s Package.
Underpinning the performance SUV is an AMG-tuned suspension with adaptive damping and Ride Control+ air springs at the rear.
AMG claims the GLC 63S 4Matic+ is the fastest SUV to have lapped the Nürburgring with a time of 7 minutes, 49.4 seconds.
“The lap record on the Nordschleife has proven the GLC 63 is right at the top of its segment in terms of dynamics. With our V-8, we hold a decisive unique selling point in the competitive environment. We were able to hone the dynamics even more and also further increase the suitability for every day,” AMG Chairman Tobias Moers says.
