The 4.0-liter biturbo V8 from the AMG GT is finding its way into more and more AMG models, and the latest duo from Affalterbach receive it is the GLC63 AMG SUV and GLC63 AMG Coupe, which Mercedes-Benz detailed ahead of the cars’ debut at the New York auto show. That’s right: AMG models are being created faster than Stuttgart can unveil them at separate auto shows, and we have the compact design of this biturbo 4.0-liter V8 to thank for its ability to fit under the hoods of so many Mercedes models.
In fact, there’s actually a third model that’ll break cover in New York, an offshoot of the GLC63 AMG Coupe that will eclipse the other two models when it comes to power stats.
In the GLC63 AMG SUV and GLC63 Coupe, this V8 will churn out 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, while the GLC63 S Coupe — the third model — will dial up the power to 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque for those buyers who are in an extra hurry. The “weaker” models will be able to make sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds — figures reserved for supercars until relatively recently — while the GLC63 S Coupe will be able to hit that mark a bit quicker with a 3.7-second sprint time. (Like we said: Some buyers are in a bigger hurry than others, so that’s the model they’ll go for.)
All three of these AMGs will use the new nine-speed automatic transmission that debuted in the AMG E63 S, which will send that power to all four wheels courtesy of 4Matic all-wheel drive. Those sprint times sound like all-wheel drive is certainly called for, if one has any hope of getting traction, though this constantly evolving system will allow torque distribution to shift from the rear wheels to all four via an electromagnetically controlled clutch. This version of 4Matic will be able to constantly and seamlessly vary the torque distribution based on driver’s input and driving conditions. On top of that, the SUV and the coupes will also have no shortage of driver-selectable driving modes, including comfort, sport, sport-plus and individual, with the modes varying transmission, engine, steering and suspension settings.
Drivers will also have the ability to select a shiftable automatic mode by pressing the “M” button, which permits shifts via the steering wheel-mounted paddles. The coupes (but not the SUV) will have yet another driving program on top of all of those: race. This dials all the settings to enable maximum performance, though we suspect Mercedes did not mean “race” other cars in traffic but, rather, at the track.
Those itching to try out the race mode will have to wait a little while; both versions of the GLC63 will go on sale in early 2018.