The latest iteration of the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance marks a shift for the brand’s high-performance mid-size SUV. Moving away from the twin-turbocharged V8 of its predecessor, it now features a turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain.
This mirrors the transition seen in the new C63, to which the GLC63 is closely related. Like the broader C-Class lineup, all GLC models are now powered by four-cylinder engines, with the GLC63 positioned above the GLC43, which uses the same engine but lacks the plug-in hybrid system.
The easiest way to differentiate the GLC63 from the GLC43 is its four squared-off exhaust outlets, replacing the traditional round ones. However, much like its more affordable sibling, the GLC63 remains a relatively understated performance SUV—though the side steps feel more cosmetic than functional.
As with the GLC43, buyers can choose between a conventional SUV body style or a sleeker coupe SUV variant. The latter arguably improves upon its predecessor’s coupe-like silhouette, with taillights reminiscent of those found on the new CLE Coupe.
How Much Does the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 Cost?
The GLC63 is priced slightly higher than some of its BMW and Maserati rivals, but it delivers more power than any of them.
2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance Pricing (Before On-Road Costs)
- GLC63 S E Performance SUV – $191,814
- GLC63 S E Performance Coupe – $198,415
Inside the Mercedes-AMG GLC63
While the GLC63’s cabin doesn’t stray far from lesser GLC models, it does feature some distinctive AMG touches.
Key Interior Differences
- AMG Sports Seats: Exceptionally comfortable and supportive, upholstered in Nappa leather with heating (but no ventilation or massage). Buyers can opt for even sportier AMG Performance seats.
- AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Thick perforated Nappa leather, AMG’s rotary controls, and touch-capacitive switches—though traditional buttons would be preferable.
- AMG- and Hybrid-Specific Screens: The 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster feature exclusive AMG content.
Otherwise, the cabin mirrors what’s found in other GLC, C-Class, EQE SUV, and EQE models. The interior is visually striking, though some materials don’t live up to expectations.
Interior Materials and Build
- The piano black trim on the center console is prone to scratches, fingerprints, and dust—a questionable choice considering the dashboard features beautiful wood trim that could have been extended here.
- The Edition 1 package adds unique interior upgrades:
- Carbon fiber and microfibre steering wheel
- Yellow contrast stitching and seatbelts
- Carbon fiber dashboard trim (instead of wood)
- These carbon fiber elements are also available in optional packages outside of Edition 1.
While the interior looks premium, there are some cost-cutting disappointments—particularly in a vehicle that costs nearly $200,000.
- The center console latch feels cheap, a common issue across recent Mercedes models.
- The lower dashboard and door trims use hard plastic, which feels acceptable in a $100k GLC300 but less so in a $200k AMG GLC63.
That said, overall presentation remains impressive. There’s a stitched soft-touch dash, squircle air vents, metallic speaker grilles, and Mercedes’ signature flashy ambient lighting.
Infotainment and Technology
- The infotainment system is intuitive, with climate controls always visible at the bottom of the screen.
- The digital instrument cluster offers various display modes, all with crisp, attractive graphics.
What’s Under the Hood?
Similar to the new C63 S E Performance, the GLC63 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder ‘M139’ engine, derived from the AMG A45 S. This record-breaking powertrain makes it the most powerful production four-cylinder engine in the world.
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