Mercedes Introduces First "63" Series for "GLC" and "GLC Coupe" | Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes Introduces First "63" Series for GLC and GLC Coupe
Mercedes-Benz Japan has added the "AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+" and "AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+" to its lineup, marking the first "63" series for its mid-size SUV and GLC Coupe. Pricing starts at ¥12.47 million, with deliveries scheduled for around June 2018.
Text & Photographs by Shunichi Uchida
Fastest Acceleration in its Class
The base model, the Mercedes-BenzGLC" was released in February 2015. It is a mid-size SUV that shares equipment with theC-Class". It has received high praise from users since its launch, thanks to its size that fits well with Japanese road conditions and parking spaces. Meanwhile, theGLC Coupe" is a crossover model based on the GLC, featuring a coupe-like design for a stylish and sporty exterior, while still offering a luggage space capable of holding three golf bags.
The Mercedes-AMG "GLC 63" and "GLC 63 Coupe" are based on this GLC family and engineered by AMG. Their most distinctive feature is the powertrain. They are equipped with a newly developed 4-liter V8 biturbo direct-injection engine (M117), sharing its basic design with the Mercedes-AMG "GT". By combining a sand-cast, closed-deck aluminum crankcase with forged aluminum pistons, AMG has achieved a lightweight yet highly rigid engine. Furthermore, the NANOSLIDE friction-reducing coating applied to the cylinder walls, using a steel-carbon material, further reduces friction loss.
The two turbochargers are arranged in a hot-inside-V layout within the V-cylinder banks. Additionally, the twin-scroll design reduces turbo lag and improves responsiveness.
As a result, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ and its Coupe variant produce a maximum output of 510 hp and a peak torque of 700 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.8 seconds. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ and its Coupe variant generate a maximum output of 476 hp and a peak torque of 650 Nm, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 4.0 seconds.
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes Introduces First "63" Series for GLC and GLC Coupe (2)
Variable Torque Distribution from 0:100
The transmission is an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed. It enables efficient and rapid gear changes by skipping gears or performing double-clutching automatically, depending on the situation. The driving modes include a Race mode suitable for track driving.
The AMG 4MATIC+ with variable torque distribution is the first in Mercedes-AMG's SUV lineup to allow for fully variable rear-wheel drive, up to a 0:100 split. The car automatically adjusts torque distribution according to driving conditions, ensuring that all the power is effectively transferred to the road.
The S model features AMG DYNAMIC ENGINE MOUNTS, a variable engine mount system. Various sensors detect driving conditions and automatically adjust the stiffness of the mounts. In normal driving, the mounts are softer, effectively isolating engine noise and vibration for enhanced comfort. During dynamic driving, they become firmer to reduce engine roll, enabling quicker cornering.
The most striking exterior feature is likely the "AMG Panamericana Grille," used here for the first time outside of the Mercedes-AMG GT. This grille, characterized by 15 vertical chrome-plated fins, originates from motorsport. It is inspired by the grille first used on the "300SL" racing car that won the legendary Carrera Panamericana Mexico road race in 1952.
In addition, the fenders are wider than those on the base models. The GLC 63 4MATIC+ is equipped with 20-inch wheels, while the S model features 21-inch wheels. The door mirrors and rear spoiler on the S model are made of carbon fiber.
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes Introduces First "63" Series for GLC and GLC Coupe (3)
Limited Edition Models Also Introduced
To commemorate this launch, special "Edition 1" models have been prepared for both the Coupe and SUV variants. On both models, the AMG Night Package in high-gloss black enhances the sporty appearance with a high-gloss black front spoiler lip, window trim, roof rails, and rear diffuser, further accentuated by black exhaust tips.
Matte graphite grey AMG sport stripes adorn the sides, accentuating the sporty exterior. The vehicles are fitted with matte black painted 21-inch AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels (forged).
The interior features AMG sports seats in black Nappa leather with yellow diamond stitching. Black Nappa leather is also used for the center armrest, door armrests, and door center panels, with yellow stitching found throughout. Additionally, yellow highlights adorn the instrument panel and floor mats. The interior is further enhanced with matte carbon fiber light brushed aluminum trim as an AMG trim option, contributing to the sporty ambiance.
A total of 60 Edition 1 models are available, with 15 each in white and black exterior colors for both the Coupe and SUV variants.
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe | Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
Mercedes Introduces First "63" Series for GLC and GLC Coupe (4)
AMG Tokyo Setagaya Celebrates First Anniversary
Last year, AMG sales in Japan reached "a record high of approximately 6,800 units, a 21 percent increase year-on-year. Globally, AMG sales exceeded 130,000 units, a 33 percent increase year-on-year, also a record high," the company highlighted its strong performance.
The reasons cited include "the 43 series, characterized by its AMG-exclusive V6 engine and AMG 4MATIC, and the SUV models." Furthermore, "the Mercedes-AMG GT, AMG's brand hero, continues to expand its lineup," and "the growth of AMG in Japan is also attributed to the strengthening of our nationwide sales network."
One aspect of this network expansion is the world's first dedicated AMG store, AMG Tokyo Setagaya, which recently celebrated its first anniversary. According to Kintaro Ueno, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Japan, "we have already welcomed over 4,500 customers."
He added, "We are actively selling special order programs available only here and special limited models exclusive to AMG Tokyo Setagaya, with new customers accounting for over 50 percent of all sales," indicating the success of various marketing initiatives.







