Photo: CarPix
We're not even going to start a discussion on the necessity of sporty SUVs, and you know why? For one thing, we wouldn't come to any conclusion, and second, because we'd feel like a bunch of hypocrites criticizing a 500 hp version of Mercedes-Benz's new compact-sized off-roader.
Even if you don't like this type of cars, it's hard to argue against one that uses a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine, right? Sure, it would make more sense to slot this unit inside a pure sports car, but guess what? Mercedes-AMG is already doing that with the GT. And the Mercedes-AMG C63 in both sedan and coupe flavors. So even if it a jacked-up wagon isn't exactly your cup of tea, you have to admit at least that one with a V8 gasoline engine is better than another one using a four-cylinder diesel.
Now that we've gotten that out of the way, we can focus on the model at hand, the Mercedes-AMG GLC63. As you probably remember, the GLC is the spiritual successor of the older and blockier GLK SUV. Initially, the GLK was meant as a sort of smaller G-Class, which explained the more square-angled design of the previous model. However, Mercedes-Benz didn't go all the way with it so, in the end, the GLK was an oddball that had a mixed reception.
The new GLC was launched last year, and it's got absolutely nothing to do with Mercedes-Benz's previous compact-sized SUV. It is best described as an SUV version of the new C-Class, and we're sticking with that. It is undeniably beautiful, even though any remote link with the mighty G-Wagen is now completely gone. The GLC is your regular posh crossover that should only leave the asphalt for the rubbery surface of an underground mall parking lot.
Naturally, the GLK had no AMG version - even though the G-Class does, it somehow wouldn't have felt right with the smaller model. The new one, however, is a perfect fit and these latest spy shots prove that it's not all just in our minds. The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC63, with its larger wheels, gaping air intakes on the front bumper and possibly lowered suspension, looks like it knows how to go fast.
And it may very well can, given it'll use the same amazing 4.0-liter V8 engine we've come to know and love. Seen here in the standard 476 hp version, we're keeping our fingers crossed for a more powerful S model that'll go all the way to 510 hp. If you're a keen observer of automotive websites, you'll know that this powerplant can easily be taken to an output of over 600 hp using just some software tweaking, so there's plenty of potential for the GLC63.
Coming up towards the end of this year, it won't be alone on the market for too long with BMW preparing their own similar model, the X3 M. Similar to Mercedes-Benz, the Bavarian SUV didn't use to have a performance version, but things are about to change for this third generation. With the standard BMW X3 coming in late 2016, the X3 M might join it early next year the latest.
Now that we've gotten that out of the way, we can focus on the model at hand, the Mercedes-AMG GLC63. As you probably remember, the GLC is the spiritual successor of the older and blockier GLK SUV. Initially, the GLK was meant as a sort of smaller G-Class, which explained the more square-angled design of the previous model. However, Mercedes-Benz didn't go all the way with it so, in the end, the GLK was an oddball that had a mixed reception.
The new GLC was launched last year, and it's got absolutely nothing to do with Mercedes-Benz's previous compact-sized SUV. It is best described as an SUV version of the new C-Class, and we're sticking with that. It is undeniably beautiful, even though any remote link with the mighty G-Wagen is now completely gone. The GLC is your regular posh crossover that should only leave the asphalt for the rubbery surface of an underground mall parking lot.
Naturally, the GLK had no AMG version - even though the G-Class does, it somehow wouldn't have felt right with the smaller model. The new one, however, is a perfect fit and these latest spy shots prove that it's not all just in our minds. The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC63, with its larger wheels, gaping air intakes on the front bumper and possibly lowered suspension, looks like it knows how to go fast.
And it may very well can, given it'll use the same amazing 4.0-liter V8 engine we've come to know and love. Seen here in the standard 476 hp version, we're keeping our fingers crossed for a more powerful S model that'll go all the way to 510 hp. If you're a keen observer of automotive websites, you'll know that this powerplant can easily be taken to an output of over 600 hp using just some software tweaking, so there's plenty of potential for the GLC63.
Coming up towards the end of this year, it won't be alone on the market for too long with BMW preparing their own similar model, the X3 M. Similar to Mercedes-Benz, the Bavarian SUV didn't use to have a performance version, but things are about to change for this third generation. With the standard BMW X3 coming in late 2016, the X3 M might join it early next year the latest.
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