Mercedes Unleashes Eco-Power and Style with AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S E Performance Coupe SUVs

Mercedes has unveiled its latest offerings in the form of the AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S E Performance coupe SUVs. These sleek and sporty vehicles not only showcase a bold design but also feature a blend of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, adding an eco-friendly edge to their turbocharged engines. The eagerly awaited GLC 43 Coupe is expected to hit the market in early 2024, while the GLC 63 S E Performance coupe is slated for a launch in the latter part of the following year, set to be designated as a 2025 model.

Under the hood, both of these coupe SUVs have made a significant change by adopting a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, stepping away from the outgoing model's 3.0-liter bi-turbo, six-cylinder powerplant. The GLC 43 coupe, equipped with mild-hybrid technology, generates an impressive 416hp and 500Nm of torque. It can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in a mere 4.7 seconds and boasts an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

On the other hand, the GLC 63 S E Performance coupe is geared with a robust plug-in hybrid powertrain. The combustion engine alone churns out 469hp, and when combined with the electric motors, the result is a staggering 671hp and a remarkable 1,019Nm of torque. This power duo propels the 63 S E Performance coupe from 0 to 100kph in just 3.4 seconds, and it's electronically restricted to a top speed of 275kph. Moreover, this hybrid setup offers a modest all-electric driving range of around 12 kilometers.

Both vehicles share an all-wheel-drive system, rear-wheel steering, and a 9-speed automatic gearbox. They come equipped with high-performance brakes, speed-sensitive steering, and adjustable suspension dampers as standard features. The GLC 63 S E Performance also adds an active anti-roll system, and both models offer multiple drive mode settings to cater to various driving preferences.

In terms of design, these coupes exemplify the distinctive AMG aesthetic with a coupe-like sloping rear end. You'll find AMG-specific touches such as a signature grille, sportier front and rear bumpers, striking alloy wheels (up to 21 inches in size), AMG side skirting, and a prominent rear diffuser with quad exhausts—two on each side.

Step inside the cabin, and you'll be greeted by AMG-themed elements, including a sporty steering wheel, seats clad in plush Nappa leather with AMG branding on pedals and floor mats, and illuminated door sills. The digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system also feature unique AMG graphics.

As for their availability in the Indian market, there's no official confirmation yet, but Mercedes did offer the previous generation of the GLC Coupe in AMG 43 guise in India. Whether the new-gen models make their way to India, and if so, which versions, remains to be seen. In the realm of coupe SUVs, Mercedes currently offers the AMG GLE Coupe in India in the 53 4Matic configuration.