How much power is it possible to squeeze out of four cylinders? If we allowed you to use every trick available, from turbocharging to adding hybrid motors, how much horsepower would you get out of a 4-banger?
For Mercedes’ AMG performance shop, the answer is 671 horsepower. That’s the power figure for the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe.
The High-Performance Form of the High-Fashion GLC
Mercedes builds two versions of its compact luxury SUV like many European automakers. The GLC is the standard one, with a boxy look to maximize cargo space. The GLC Coupe is its less-practical sister, an “SUV coupe” with a rakish roofline meant just for appearance.
The sister who does her taxes on time was remodeled for the 2023 model year. The Coupe took longer to prepare and appeared in remodeled form for 2024.
Now, the engineers at AMG have released their versions of it. Pricing is unknown, though we expect a significant bump from the 2023 starting price of $68,200.
A Lot of Power or a Ridiculous Amount of Power
The 2024 AMG GLC will come in two temperatures. The hot one, the GLC 43 Coupe, uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, making a total of 416 hp. It uses an electric exhaust turbocharger designed to spool up before gases reach it, so turbo lag should be unnoticeable.
The extra hot one, the GLC 63 S E, pairs the same engine with a larger turbocharger and a 201-hp electric motor for a what-did-you-say 671-hp figure. Mercedes claims an almost comical acceleration time of 3.4 seconds to 60 mph.
Both send their power through a 9-speed automatic transmission with a wet-start clutch instead of a torque converter. Mercedes says this “reduces weight and, thanks to its lower inertia, optimizes response to accelerator pedal input, especially during spurts and load changes.”
Both versions are all-wheel drive (AWD). The 43 uses a 31:69 power split, while the 63 varies as needed for maximum performance.
AMG-Specific Look Inside and Out
You’ll know you’re looking at an AMG thanks to the AMG-specific radiator grille, more oversized air intakes in the front fascia, and a roof-mounted spoiler.
Inside, you’ll get an AMG-styled steering wheel, Nappa leather on the steering wheel and shifter, and Mercedes’ MB-Tex faux leather on the seats.
