The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+

Sharpened vehicle dynamics, optimum connectivity, and operation via gesture control are just some of the updates Mercedes-AMG has made to the new GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ models. The SUV and Coupe have been given a new, even more distinctive light design as well as the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system (MBUX). The new dynamic handling control AMG DYNAMICS and the differential lock – now controlled electronically as standard – facilitate an even more versatile driving experience. Air suspension with adaptive damping, all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution, and a high-performance compound brake system ensure maximum driving pleasure. The mid-size performance SUV also offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage, extensive safety features, and a high level of comfort on long journeys.

With an official recorded lap time of 7:49:369 minutes, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is currently the fastest SUV in the world on the North Loop of the Nurburgring.

"This record time on the North Loop proves that the GLC 63 is right at the top of its segment in terms of vehicle dynamics. Its V8 biturbo sets it apart from competitors in the segment. Through AMG DYNAMICS we were able to hone the vehicle dynamics even more and with the connectivity offered by MBUX, the vehicle is even more well-equipped for everyday driving. This makes the GLC 63 an all-rounder for every occasion," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new features of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ at a glance:

• New headlamp design
• New tail lamp design
• Newoptional 21-inch light-alloy wheels
• New 90 mm twin tailpipe trims in a trapezoidal design
• New paint colour graphite grey metallic
• MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays, touchscreen display, accelerated voice control and optional gesture control
• New AMG steering wheel with Touch Control buttons and steering wheel buttons
• New upholstery in magma grey/black with yellow contrasting topstitching
• Electronically controlled locking differential standard on all models
• New AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program: "Slippery"
• Dynamic handling control AMG DYNAMICS with four agility modes

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupe and SUV are equipped with an AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine that produces 503 hp and a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft. The vehicle can reach 100 km/h from a standstill in 3.8 seconds, and it has an electronically limited top speed of 280 km/h. The impressive driving dynamics of the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ are based on the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, the electronically controlled differential lock, and the dynamic engine mounts-- which are all standard equipment.

Expressive front view with restyled headlights

From the front, the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ catches the eye with its striking AMG-specific radiator grille. Restyled flattened LED High Performance headlights reinforce the vehicle’s visual appeal with a flare-like look for the daytime running lights. The combination of a wide front apron in a jet-wing design and a large front splitter emphasizes the powerful nature of the new models. Wider wheel arch claddings at the front and rear of the vehicle accentuate the GLC 63’s dynamic appearance.

Side sill panels elongate the overall vehicle lines and make the GLC 63 SUV and Coupe appear to sit lower on the road. The tail end of the vehicle features a muscular design, dominated by the wide rear apron and rear-diffuser. Redesigned LED tail lights ensure an exclusive light signature – with distinctive blocks in a backlight edge-light design. Two trapezoidal twin tailpipes in high-sheen chrome round off the exhaust system.
Other standard highlights include the 5-twin-spoke 20-inch allow wheels, side sill panels with matte iridium silver inserts, and a rear apron with diffuser fin and boards in matte iridium silver.

It listens to words and reacts to gestures: The MBUX infotainment system

With the new MBUX infotainment system, the GLC 63 is highly suitable for everyday use. Whether operated by the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, voice control or gesture control, the operating system of the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is just as versatile as it is flexible. All of these interactive options are aimed at enabling control tasks to be carried out in the most convenient way possible.

With the optionally available MBUX interior assistant, specific infotainment functions can be operated without the need to physically touch them. The interior assistant can differentiate between driver and passenger, and can recognize certain hand positions and movements. When the interior assistant recognizes movement towards an operating element of MBUX, the media display changes and individual elements are highlighted. In the Radio and Media menu, the MBUX interior assistant will reduce the number of operating steps. In the Navigation menu, the interior assistant will fade in the navigation as soon as it detects a hand moving to operate the touchscreen or touchpad. MBUX interior assistant can even control the reading lamp via a simple movement of the hand towards the button.

A unique feature of MBUX is its ability to learn through artificial intelligence. With its predictive functions, MBUX anticipates what the user would like to do next. For instance, anyone who often telephones their mother on Tuesdays during the drive home will receive her telephone number as a suggestion in the display on this day of the week. Anyone who regularly switches over to a radio station with news at a certain time also receives this as a suggestion.

Instrument cluster and infotainment information are displayed on a 12.3 inch display in front of the driver, and a 10.25 inch touchscreen display to the right.

Additional information for an even sportier driving experience

With the optional AMG TRACK PACE, MBUX is enhanced with a virtual engineer that can record and analyze vehicle-specific data and times on closed routes. Many of these values can be displayed on the widescreen cockpit or on the optional head-up display in real-time. After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyze, and if necessary, improve their driving skills.

In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. The driver can record any circuits and open circuits as they wish, and can save them for later vehicle data recording. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE even detects when the circuit has been left or has been shortened. This is done using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle: acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, and wheel speeds.

Ergonomics, functionality and quality at the highest level: The interior

The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ features driver and front passenger seats in Nappa leather with embossed AMG badges in the head restraints and lateral support designed to promote proper ergonomics when driving.

The instrument panel is trimmed in black ARTICO man-made leather with contrasting topstitching. The high-grade look of the instrument panel is underlined by aluminum trim. The touchpad is flanked by the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch and numerous AMG-specific controls, such as the button for the 3-stage AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, 3-stage ESP® or the button for the optional AMG Performance exhaust system with flap control.

New generation AMG steering wheel now standard in the GLC

The new generation AMG steering wheel continues to provide the perfect link between the driver and the vehicle. The steering wheel rim with a flattened lower section, perforated leather in the grip area and red contrast topstitching is both attractive and pleasant to the touch. Galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles allow for an even sportier driving style with manual gear shifting. The AMG steering wheel is optionally available in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber, and DINAMICA with trim in high-gloss carbon fibre.

The new built-in Touch Control buttons can be used to intuitively select the displays of the instrument cluster and the multimedia system by means of horizontal and vertical swiping. The steering wheel features a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke and two vertically positioned colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke. The AMG drive programs can be activated instantly via this controller and the selected drive program is shown on the colour LCD display that is directly integrated in the controller. The two freely configurable display buttons and the additional switches allow for further AMG functions to be controlled directly on the steering wheel. The driver's two preferred AMG functions can be defined in this way and the settings can be changed with just one touch of the finger. This means that drivers can fully concentrate on driving without taking their hands off the wheel.

More agility with high stability: AMG DYNAMICS

Drivers can adjust the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ to suit their individual requirements via the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT gearshift paddle in the centre console or the AMG control buttons located on the steering wheel. They can choose from "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport plus", "RACE" and "Individual". The "RACE" mode adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage, very short shift speeds and highly emotive engine sounds are included. For manual shifting, drivers can activate the manual transmission mode by pressing the separate "M" button in the centre console.

As a feature of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ comes equipped with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated driving dynamics regulation system expands the functions of ESP® (electronic stability program) to more efficiently distribute power at the rear axle. As a result, the car becomes even more agile at its highest stability. AMG DYNAMICS optimizes the transverse dynamics with a higher lateral acceleration, better traction and load change reactions.

Particularly remarkable: AMG DYNAMICS calculates how the vehicle will react. To do this, the system uses the available sensors that detect the speed, steering angl,e or the yaw rate. Based on the pilot-control principle, it is possible to anticipate the vehicle’s behaviour on the basis of the driver's actions and the data from the sensors. Drivers get a very authentic driving feel with high cornering dynamics, optimum traction, high stability, and predictable handling. This provides optimum support even for experienced drivers.

The different AMG DYNAMICS modes are named "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master". The drive program selection indicated on the multimedia screen displays the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol with the relevant additional term instead of the previous ESP® symbol.

• "Basic" is assigned to the "Slippery" and "Comfort" drive programs. Here the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ demonstrates exceptionally stable handling characteristics with high yaw damping.
• "Advanced" is activated in the "Sport" program. The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is then neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.
• "Pro" (abbreviation for "professional") is part of the "Sport+" program. In "Pro" the driver receives even more assistance for dynamic driving manoeuvres while agility and precision are further enhanced when taking corners.
• "Master" is coupled with the RACE drive program. "Master" mode is aimed at drivers who want to experience dynamism and the driving enjoyment on closed-off circuits. "Master" offers an extremely neutral vehicle balance, low steer angle requirement and more agile steering. In this way, "Master" ensures maximum agility and fully exploits the dynamic potential.

Regardless of the drive programs selected, the driver can use the buttons in the centre console to tailor their driving experience, for example by selecting manual transmission mode or their preferred suspension level.

The V8 biturbo engine

The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder biturbo engine found in the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is already used in numerous AMG performance vehicles. A characteristic trait of this engine is the two turbochargers that are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder "V". The main advantages of this design are a compact engine construction and an optimal response time. A spray-guided direct injection system ensures clean and efficient combustion and high thermodynamic efficiency. Fast-acting piezo injectors enable multiple injections of fuel to be delivered to the engine on demand and with the utmost precision.

The extensive engine cooling system ensures engine performance even under extreme loads. The same is true for the flow-optimized cylinder heads, which are made of a special heat-resistant alloy. Continuous adjustment of the intake and exhaust camshafts improve power delivery and efficiency. This produces excellent throttle response and optimizes the charge cycle for every operating point. An oil pump with variable control also contributes to low fuel consumption.

A dedicated AMG master technician assembles each engine in the engine shop in Affalterbach according to the "one man ‑ one engine" principle.

The exhilirating V8 engine sound comes courtesy of an exhaust system with flap technology. The flaps are controlled by a map and automatically operated depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program, the power demanded by the driver and the engine speed. Optionally available is the Performance exhaust system, which allows the sound to be modulated at the press of a button.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission

A wet start-off clutch is used instead of a torque converter on the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission. This saves weight and optimizes response-to-accelerator commands, especially during rapid acceleration or deceleration. The multiple downshift functions of the transmission allow for more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the "Sport" and "Sport+" drive programs make for an even more exciting driving experience. Defined ignition adjustments also provide faster gear shifts in the other modes. In all modes, moving off occurs in first gear in order to always guarantee a dynamic driving experience.

"Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the centre console. In "Manual" mode, the gear changes are based on the selected drive program, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.

Optimal grip: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive

Power is transferred to the road by the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, which comes as standard. This intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts. Fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axle not only ensures optimal traction, but also means the driver can rely on high handling stability and a high level of safety under all conditions, whether dry, wet, or snowy. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa is seamless because the intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture.

An electro-mechanically controlled clutch intermittently connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and the driver's input. It is possible to drive in an adaptable way, from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive, as cross-fading takes place continuously based on a complex matrix. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.

AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension

More agility, neutral cornering performance and greater traction come courtesy of the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension that was developed in Affalterbach. The multi-chamber air suspension, which has a particularly sporty spring/damper set-up and a continuously adjustable damping ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System), combines outstanding driving dynamics with high ride comfort. For example, body roll is reduced by a harder spring rate when cornering and braking.

The front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints. All components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics, and the elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid. All of these measures improve agility and boost vehicle dynamics.

At each wheel, the damping is adjusted to suit the existing driving and road conditions. This is done rapidly and precisely, using two separate valves for the rebound and compression forces in the dampers. In three modes: "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+", the damping characteristics can also be preselected, which creates a much more pronounced difference between long-distance comfort and sporty driving dynamics.

The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupe are standardly equipped with 265/45 R 20 (front) and 295/40 R 20 (rear) tires on 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish in 9.5 J x 20 (front) and 10.0 J x 20 (rear). There are other optional wheel/tire combinations, as well as forged wheels up to sizes of 265/40 R 21 on 9.5 J x 21 on the front axle and 295/35 R 21 on 10.0 J x 21 on the rear axle.

Sensitive and fast: The locking differential

For improved traction, the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupe are equipped with an electronically controlled locking differential. This technology reduces the slip on the inside rear wheel when cornering, without any control intervention required in the braking system. As a result of the improved traction, drivers are able to accelerate out of corners earlier. With the locking differential, the vehicle produces more traction from rest and remains more stable when braking from high speed.

The greatest benefit of electronic control is its even more sensitive and even faster adjustment capability in changing driving situations. It pushes the critical threshold higher, making it even easier to drive at the vehicle's limits. The three-stage ESP® - with "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode", and "ESP OFF" settings works in perfect unison with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and is optimally tuned to the outstanding dynamics.

Direct and with clear feedback: The AMG speed-sensitive steering

The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering found in the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is equipped with a variable ratio. It impresses with its precise and authentic feedback and can be preselected in the two settings "Comfort" or "Sport". The steering assistance is reduced at high speeds, and continuously increases at lower speeds. This results in comparatively little steering force being required at low speeds, and the best possible control being maintained at high speeds. The power steering system is dependent on the lateral acceleration, the chosen AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program or the damping adjustment setting.

Sensitive and steadfast: The high-performance compound braking system

The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupe and SUV come equipped with a large-dimensioned brake system that consists of internally-ventilated, perforated compound discs at both the front and rear axles. This system relies on 6-piston fixed callipers used at the front of the vehicle and single-piston floating callipers at the rear of the vehicle.

Optionally available is the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system with bronze-coloured 6-piston fixed callipers at the front and single-piston floating brake callipers at the rear. This option provides weight savings and lower unsprung masses. Further advantages are the even greater overall sturdiness of the system and its fading stability under high stress. The brake is also beneficial as it has a high service life and immediate response – guaranteeing fast lap times.

The brake systems of the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ impress with short brake paths, sensitive responsiveness and high life expectancy, even in the case of extreme stress. Among the comfort features of the vehicle are hill start assist, brake priming and dry-braking in wet conditions. With the ignition switched off and the vehicle at a standstill, the transmission automatically selects Park position "P". When pulling away, the electric parking brake will automatically release.

Dynamic engine and transmission mounts

The GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ comes equipped with dynamic engine mounts as standard. These resolve the conflicting aims of comfort and dynamic performance by reducing vibrations in the engine/transmission unit. These dynamic mounts instantly and variably adapt their rigidity to the driving conditions and style of driving. Soft engine mounts improve comfort, as they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. On the other hand, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up because the driver feels more connected to the vehicle when driving dynamically, due to more feedback and a more direct steering response.

Data at a glance

About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,200 people in 14 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 49,758 vehicles in 2018. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the fifth consecutive year.

For more information, please contact:

Sinead Brown              416-847-7588             sinead.brown@mercedes-benz.ca
Lucas Dias                   416-847-7449             lucas.e.dias@mercedes-benz.ca

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