Mercedes’ new superfast SUV

The GLC is a mid-sized SUV, so you won’t be shocked to learn it’s one of Mercedes-Benz’s most popular models in the UK.

It’s just received a minor mid-life facelift, with a slightly different look and some new engines. But we’ve been driving the fast version, in the form of the AMG GLC 63 S – the S denoting that this is the hotter of the two hot models.

AMG: Those three letters generally mean lots of performance, lairy styling plus an addictive exhaust note – despite being an SUV, the recipe is no different here.

Under the bonnet is a 4.0-litre V8 with two turbos that makes 469bhp and 650Nm of torque in the “standard” GLC 63, and 503bhp and 700Nm in S guise.

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 with little effort or skill required from the driver. Just stamp on the right pedal and off you go.

Naturally, it feels a little unwieldy in corners – it feels quite large when you’re pressing on.

Keeping it between the lines on a committed countryside blast takes genuine effort, but the GLC was really made for ludicrously quick motorway overtakes and slip road shenanigans. At this it excels.

The looks of this coupe version are probably most politely described as divisive. German manufacturers love to fill a niche and that’s what’s happening here – it’s essentially an SUV at the front and middle, but with a drooping, coupelike roofline to the back that infringes on rear headroom.

The AMG GLC is also available in more traditional SUV form, which will save you about £3,000 compared with the coupe, where prices start at £77,000.

As you’d expect from a top-spec Mercedes, the interior is fantastically appointed and provides a real premium appeal.

Much like the pre-facelift version, it has a sweeping centre console, now with a new trackpad between the seats to control the infotainment.

With the likes of the utterly brilliant Range Rover Sport SVR and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio for company, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S has a tough fight on its hands.

It carves a niche for itself in being unashamedly extroverted, with in-yerface styling, brutal performance and a barking V8 soundtrack.

However, those who enjoy the way the Alfa belies its size to provide driving thrills might find the German’s abilities frustrating.

Zero to 60mph takes less than four seconds