In an age where electrification is redefining automotive engineering, few brands have seamlessly blended high-performance with plug-in hybrid technology. One such masterpiece is the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 SE Performance – a vehicle that combines cutting-edge efficiency with the spirit of speed. As one of the first motoring journalists in South Africa to test this model on behalf of YourLuxury Africa, I was thrilled by the sheer dynamism it offered, courtesy of Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA)’s PR division.
A Stir-Fry of Sensations
The moment I received the test car, MBSA Product PR Manager, Justin Jacobs, set the tone with a playful analogy. He likened the car’s evolution from a “steak and chips” V8 engine to a “beef stew” with its V6 hybrid setup. However, after spending time behind the wheel, I realised it’s more like a perfectly balanced stir-fry – a medley of flavours that each reveal themselves at the right moment. You can go from mild to spicy, from smooth to sharp, all depending on how you engage with the car.
On startup, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 greets you with silence – courtesy of the electric motor. However, as soon as the open road calls and you step on the accelerator, the familiar growl of AMG power fills the air. The AMG mode intensifies this, transforming the vehicle from a quiet companion into a roaring beast. With eight distinct driving modes, from Comfort and Electric to the pulse-quickening Race, this car adapts to whatever mood you’re in. It’s as if the car dances to your rhythm, responding with the right energy at the perfect time.
The Soul of a Champion
At the heart of the GLC 63 SE Performance is a marvel of engineering – the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, turbocharged with electric exhaust technology derived from Formula 1. It’s an engine that balances power and sustainability, designed in Affalterbach under Mercedes-AMG’s “One Man, One Engine” principle, where craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology unite.
Producing a system output of 500 kW and a staggering 1020 Nm of torque, this hybrid SUV delivers acceleration that leaves you breathless – going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Whether you’re navigating a track day or conquering city streets, the performance is nothing short of exhilarating. The electric motor not only offers an extra boost when you need it but also adds a refined edge to urban driving, making quiet commutes a seamless affair.
Inspired by Formula 1, Perfected for the Road
Mercedes-AMG’s high-performance battery system is directly inspired by Formula 1 technology. This innovation allows you to harness the electric power at any given moment, giving you instant acceleration when overtaking or powering out of corners. The battery isn’t about long-range; it’s about raw power when it matters. Whether you’re gliding through a residential area in electric mode or tackling hilly terrain with full hybrid force, the GLC 63 delivers pure driving pleasure.
The Joy of Balance
The real beauty of the GLC 63 SE Performance lies in its versatility. It respects your need for quiet luxury when you pull into your driveway late at night but lets you unleash the AMG roar when the road opens up ahead. It’s more than just a car – it’s a finely tuned symphony of power, precision, and elegance. For those who crave a driving experience that adapts to every whim, this SUV is worth every cent.
Pricing starts at R2 760 000, including a 5-year/100 000 km Service and Maintenance Plan. While competitors such as the Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE (R2 292 860), BMW X4 M Competition (R2 200 000), and Porsche Macan GTS (R2 060 00) each bring their own strengths to the table, the GLC 63 SE Performance stands apart as the ultimate blend of hybrid technology and high-performance luxury.
