2025 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG GLC

Looking for a do-it-all luxury SUV that’s not too big, not too small, and plenty quick? The Mercedes-AMG GLC is a great choice. The choice gets even better this year with the addition of the new 671-horsepower GLC 63 S E Performance to the range. That’s not to say the GLC 43 isn’t well worth the price of entry, as it’s also a fun and fast SUV — both AMG variants are based on the core underpinnings that make the GLC Mercedes-Benz’s best-seller.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury SUVs, including the Mercedes-Benz GLC.

The current generation of the GLC debuted for the 2023 model year, with the GLC 43 joining the lineup last year. Now, the GLC 63 S E Performance joins to add even more muscle, features, and luxury to the top of the AMG GLC range. The new GLC 63 S sports the first production use of Mercedes-AMG’s exclusive E Performance hybrid system, extracting a combined total of 671 hp.

The MBUX infotainment system has also been updated to the third generation.

Just two variants of the AMG GLC are available, one of which is all-new this year. The GLC 43 is the more attainable and likely more popular of the two SUVs. Compared to its rivals like the BMW X3 M50 or the Audi SQ5, the GLC is priced a few thousand dollars higher but has more power than either alternative. The new GLC 63 S E Performance is considerably costlier but substantially quicker and more powerful. The GLC 63 S E Performance has no direct rivals. Even the range-topping Porsche Macan GTS, which is comparable in price (both are in the upper $80,000 range) yet slightly smaller, is about 250 hp behind the Mercedes-AMG.

Although the GLC 63 S E Performance makes our hearts soar, we’d opt for the more affordable, more conservative route with the GLC 43.

Before buying a new Mercedes-AMG GLC, be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. The AMG GLC’s resale values are about average for the performance luxury compact SUV segment. The more your vehicle fetches when it’s time to upgrade, the more you have to put down on your next car.

The AMG GLC 43 is quick thanks to its 416-hp output, and it’s self-assured thanks to the standard 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD). That’s over 20 hp more than the BMW X3 M50i and about 67 hp more than the Audi SQ5. Despite the GLC 43’s extra power, it’s just in the middle of the pack in terms of acceleration, hitting 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. That’s 0.3 seconds behind the X3 and tied with the Audi SQ5.

However, the GLC 43 isn’t only about performance. As a Mercedes-Benz and a luxury SUV, it’s also a comfortable place to spend time. The transmission shifts fluidly, the ride quality is firm yet supple, and the powertrains are smooth and pliant. Until you crank them into performance mode, anyway.

For maximum thrills, the GLC 63 S E Performance, with its 671-hp hybrid system, is the obvious choice.

Fuel Economy

It’s not likely that buyers of an AMG variant of the GLC are much concerned with gas mileage. The new AMG GLC 63 S E Performance hasn’t been rated for fuel economy yet, but the GLC 43 gets 21 mpg combined (19 city/25 highway). That’s on par with the Audi SQ5 but significantly behind the BMW X3 M50i’s 27 mpg combined rating.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC’s interior is as plush and posh as the base model’s but with an extra dose of performance-inspired pizzazz. Materials like microfiber and carbon fiber are available alongside the typical Nappa leather and wood trims of the class. Both the GLC 43 and 63 get 12.3-inch digital instrument panel displays and 11.9-inch center touchscreens. The front seats are spacious and have heating, power adjustment, memory function, and lumbar support by default.

In the rear seat, 37.4 inches of legroom lies ahead of 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold down the second row to get up to 56.3 cubic feet. The BMW X3 M50 has a bit less rear legroom at 36.3 inches but a bit more cargo space at 31.5/67.1 cubic feet.

Building on the elegant looks of the GLC-Class, the AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S E Performance are subtly more sport-themed from the outside. However, they are still quite understated, especially considering their driving chops. Look for the vertical bars in the grille, the enlarged air intakes, and the larger wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber to spot an AMG in the wild.

For 2025, two new colors are available: Verde Silver and Manufaktur Alpine Grey.

AMG Power

Whether you’re a fan of the abundant power of the 416-hp GLC 43 or the complete overkill of the 671-hp of the GLC 63 S, you’ll appreciate the hand-built quality and sheer prowess of the AMG engines at the core of the experience.

MBUX

The name is the least user-friendly aspect of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX). Just say, “Hey, Mercedes,” and your car will listen, ready to adjust the temperature, navigate to a new location, or do a range of other tasks. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, too.

4Matic AWD

Standard in both AMG GLC variants, 4Matic AWD is a performance enhancer as much as a ticket to the off-pavement unknown. The extra traction is useful in slippery conditions and when accelerating hard from a stop.

Parktronic with Active Park Assist

Anything that saves those gorgeous wheels from curbing is welcome, and the standard Parktronic system with Active Park Assist makes light work of slotting the AMG GLC into just about any spot.

Burmester audio

This optional 3D Surround Sound system brings 15 speakers and 710 watts to create a detailed, immersive experience. It is included in the Pinnacle Trim package, which also includes ambient lighting, a surround-view system, a head-up display, and more.

Driving Assistance package

Easily worth the $1,950 entry price, this bundle includes adaptive cruise control, automatic lane change, active lane-keeping, evasive steering assist, and a range of other safety features.

AMG Performance Design package

This $4,000 addition includes an increased top speed (174 mph) and the AMG Track Pace performance data display and recording software, plus red brake calipers and an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather and microfiber.

Two powertrains are available in the Mercedes-AMG GLC SUV. Starting in the GLC 43, a handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with hybrid assist generates 416 hp. Piping that to all four wheels results in 4.7-second zero-to-60-mph times.

Stepping up to the new GLC 63 S nets the first use of Mercedes-AMG’s exclusive E Performance hybrid system. It pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with a more substantial hybrid system for a combined output of 671 hp and 756 lb-ft of torque. Also equipped with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLC 63 S can rocket to 60 mph from a stop in just 3.5 seconds.

Both GLC AMG variants get a 9-speed automatic transmission.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Mercedes-Benz has new-car and powertrain warranties of four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. These terms are typical among European automakers, while many other luxury brands offer longer powertrain coverage.

Safety Ratings

This generation of GLC SUV has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the agency’s highest accolade. Standard safety equipment includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.