Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S E Performance finally priced for SA
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S E Performance may have transitioned from their traditional V6 and V8 engines but have retained their formidable character and performance.
For the 2024 model year, the pair enters the arena with the same M139l 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that has been the subject of several heated debates in the latest C63 S E Performance.
The flagship GLC 63 S E Performance features a hybrid system that produces 500kW and 1,020Nm, allowing for a 0-100k/h sprint of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 275km/h. Impressive is the keyword here, and we can attest to that after our exclusive test drive of the performance SUV.
Anyway, you might be wondering how AMG engineers managed to extract such impressive power from a smaller engine. The answer lies in the integration of a 6.1kWh high-performance battery pack, which provides 80kW of continuous power and up to 150kW of peak power for short bursts of up to 10 seconds.
The hybrid setup also offers an electric driving range of up to 12km, making it ideal for short trips.
On the other hand, the smaller GLC 43 delivers a robust 310kW and 500Nm, matching the power figures of the current A45 S. Upon examining its performance stats, which show 4.8 seconds to 100km/h, it becomes evident that the GLC 43, despite its 43 nameplate, is a formidable competitor. Also, speed fanatics will find the 250km/h limited top speed quite attractive, but I am just saying.
Both models shuffle through a 9-speed automatic transmission that drives all four wheels via the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system.
When discussing pricing, it’s important to note that car prices in South Africa have risen significantly over the years. Given that these are AMG models, they come with a premium price tag. For instance, the GLC 43 is priced at R1,876,750, while the more powerful GLC 63 S E Performance is available for R2,760,000. This represents a substantial increase of R1,196,404 compared to the pre-facelifted GLC 63 S model at its launch in 2018. Yikes.
Our exclusive first drive of the new GLC 63 S E Performance video review will be released soon.
