Navigating the complexities of a modern powertrain can sometimes raise concerns about vehicle performance. However, spending just a few minutes behind the wheel of the Mercedes GLC SUV quickly dispels any such worries. Despite its sophisticated engineering underneath, the GLC’s powertrain operates with remarkable seamlessness in real-world driving scenarios. A diverse range of driving modes, including Comfort, Electric, and three performance settings – Sport, Sport+, and Race – are available, each meticulously adjusting parameters such as throttle response, stability control, suspension tuning, and steering effort.
Alt text: Close-up of Mercedes GLC SUV drive mode selector showcasing Comfort, Electric, Sport, Sport+, and Race options.
Electric mode functions exactly as expected, prioritizing all-electric driving and keeping the gasoline engine dormant. Comfort mode, the default setting, intelligently manages the engine, switching it on and off based on various driving conditions for optimal efficiency. For enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic experience, the Sport modes maintain continuous gasoline engine engagement, which also serves to recharge the GLC’s battery. Regardless of the chosen mode, unleashing the full potential of the GLC is as simple as pressing the accelerator pedal to the floor. While there is a brief pause for the gasoline engine to activate in Electric or Comfort modes, the power delivery is substantial once it kicks in.
The acceleration of the Mercedes GLC SUV is characterized by its smoothness and consistency. Drivers will appreciate the absence of any jarring transitions between electric and combined gas/electric power sources. This is a notable advantage, as some plug-in hybrids can exhibit sluggishness when relying solely on electric power. For instance, while some plug-in models might experience a significant drop in acceleration when using only the electric motor, the GLC SUV maintains commendable power even in electric mode, offering 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This ensures ample performance for city driving and confident highway overtaking.
Alt text: Mercedes GLC SUV accelerating on a highway, demonstrating its smooth and powerful performance.
While official testing figures are still pending, Mercedes-Benz estimates a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds for the GLC 63 S variant. Interestingly, this marginally outperforms the previous V8-powered GLC 63 S, which we clocked at 3.5 seconds. Although the new model boasts a considerable increase in horsepower compared to its 503-horsepower predecessor, the slight performance gain could be attributed to the anticipated weight increase due to the added battery and hybrid components. Final specifications from Mercedes are awaited, but the inclusion of a 6.1-kWh battery suggests a heavier 2025 model.
Despite the expected weight increase, the GLC 63 S never feels cumbersome or unwieldy. It delivers more than sufficient power for everyday driving needs, reserving its full potential for open roads where its capabilities can be truly explored. The transmission operates seamlessly in most situations, yet it delivers rapid upshifts when engaged in Sport modes. The responsive paddle shifters offer enhanced driver control, though the intelligent automatic transmission tuning generally ensures the vehicle is in the optimal gear at any given time.
Handling prowess is another key attribute of the Mercedes GLC SUV. AMG engineers have effectively mitigated the perceived weight through skillful chassis tuning. Standard adaptive dampers dynamically adjust suspension responsiveness based on road conditions and selected drive mode. Unlike some competitors in its class, which can compromise ride comfort for sporty handling, the GLC SUV manages to strike a better balance. While the ride does become firmer in Sport+ or Race modes, it remains reasonably compliant even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The optional active roll stabilization system further enhances both comfort and performance by decoupling the anti-sway bars when necessary, a sophisticated feature not commonly found in most vehicles that utilize solid one-piece anti-sway bars.
Alt text: Mercedes GLC SUV cornering on a winding road, highlighting its agile handling and minimal body roll.
Body roll is well-controlled in corners, although naturally, the GLC exhibits slightly more lean than a lower-slung sedan like the C 63 S. Similarly, brake dive is minimal but somewhat more pronounced compared to a sport sedan. The braking system itself is powerful, yet the pedal feel is firmer than some might expect, requiring slightly more effort to modulate, particularly during gentle stops. While drivers acclimate to this feel quickly, a more immediate initial bite would be preferable. Another minor point is the one-pedal driving function, which offers several settings but none that provide truly aggressive deceleration or bring the vehicle to a complete stop. In practice, driving without one-pedal mode engaged often proves to be a more intuitive experience. Looking ahead, carbon-ceramic brakes are planned as an optional upgrade, enhancing braking performance further.
Standard rear-axle steering contributes to the GLC’s agile handling. At lower speeds (up to 62 mph), the rear wheels turn slightly in the opposite direction to the front wheels, reducing the turning radius for improved maneuverability in parking and tighter corners. At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, enhancing stability. While early rear-axle steering systems sometimes felt artificial, AMG has refined the technology to the point where it operates seamlessly in the GLC. The vehicle turns in with greater eagerness than expected, yet the sensation remains natural and contributes to an overall feeling of responsiveness. The steering system itself, while not brimming with tactile feedback, offers well-weighted effort and a quick, yet not overly sensitive, ratio.
The Mercedes GLC 63 S proves to be genuinely enjoyable on winding roads. However, truly tight and twisty sections may not fully allow the car to demonstrate its full breadth of capabilities. It truly excels when given ample room to stretch its legs, although it remains highly competent in a wide range of driving scenarios. While the new engine delivers impressive power and performance, the exhaust note lacks the auditory drama of the previous V8 engine, a point that might be missed by some enthusiasts.
