The shape of things to come

Mercedes has given the GLC a makeover, which extends to the high-performance AMG version too

The GLC is a mid-sized SUV, so you won’t be shocked to learn it’s one of Mercedes’s most popular UK models. It’s just received a minor mid-life facelift, with a slightly different look and new engines. But we’ve been driving the hot version, in the form of the AMG GLC 63 S - the S denoting that this is the hotter of the two hot versions. AMG: Those three letters generally mean lots of performance, lairy styling plus an addictive exhaust note - and despite being an

SUV, the recipe is no different here. We got behind the ‘coupe’ version of the go-faster GLC to see how it stacks up.

UNDER THE BONNET?

There’s nothing particularly revolutionary, but that’s not a bad thing as the AMG staple is a delightful unit. It’s a 4.0-litre V8 with two turbos that makes 469bhp and 650Nm of torque in the ‘standard’ GLC 63. Zero to 60mph takes less than four seconds in both engine variants, with the four-wheel-drive system and fat, grippy tyres ensuring stomach-curdling pace.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The GLC 63 S manages to tread a contradictory line between being totally unremarkable and utterly mind-blowing. When you’re doing the boring stuff - school run, commute - it could be any other GLC. However, when you do decide to give it some welly, boy does it come alive. The soundtrack that accompanies this blistering pace is pure AMG theatre, too.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The looks of this ‘coupe’ version are probably best described as ‘divisive’. It’s essentially an SUV at the front and middle, but with a drooping, coupe-like roofline to the back that infringes on rear headroom. It’s a curious look but will sell well. The AMG GLC is also available in more traditional SUV form, which will save £3,000 compared with the coupe, depending on spec.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

While the interior just about gets away with feeling like value for money, the specification certainly goes some way to justifying the eye-watering £77,089 starting price. The MBUX infotainment system brings a touchscreen display with voice and gesture control plus some AMG-specific features, from the flat-bottomed steering wheel to extra menus and settings.

THE VERDICT

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S carves a niche for itself in being unashamedly extroverted, with in-yer-face styling, brutal performance and a barking V8 soundtrack. Herein lies much of its appeal. However, those who enjoy the way the Alfa belies its size to provide ultimate driving thrills from an unlikely package might find the German’s abilities frustratingly superficial.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe

Price: £90,845

Engine: 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 Power: 503bhp

Torque: 700Nm

Max speed: 173mph

0-60mph: 3.6 seconds

MPG: 21.7

Emissions: 280g/km