Mercedes-AMG will debut its first performance hybrid crossover following this spring’s redesign of the workhorse GLC model.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 compact crossover will arrive at U.S. stores in early 2024. The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance will follow later in the year.
Mercedes delivered 65,531 GLC crossovers in the U.S. last year, up 26 percent from 2021.
The GLC 43 mild hybrid is powered by an AMG hand-built 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. It produces 416 hp and an extra 13 hp via a starter generator at lower engine speeds. The GLC 43 accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.
Mercedes said the M139l engine is the only production engine in the world turbocharged with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. Derived from Formula One technology, the new form of turbocharging “guarantees particularly spontaneous response across the rpm range,” the automaker said.
The GLC 63 S E Performance pairs an AMG 2.0-liter turbo engine with a 201-hp electric motor on the rear axle. The plug-in hybrid delivers a combined 671 hp and propels the crossover from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
The redesign features an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical struts and sporty air intakes. Large inlets and air curtains direct airflow to boost aerodynamics and energy efficiency.
The GLC 43 sports twin tailpipes in the rear, while the GLC 63 S E Performance uses trapezoidal tailpipes.
Inside, the AMG Performance steering wheel is flattened at the bottom and features aluminum gearshift paddles. The sporty look is rounded off with AMG sport pedals, floor mats and illuminated door sills.