A Bold Shift in AMG’s Legacy
For decades, the essence of a high-performance Mercedes-AMG rested on the roar of a V-8 engine, a signature of raw power and driving exhilaration. The automotive landscape, however, is evolving, and electrification is increasingly shaping performance vehicles. The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance represents AMG’s daring embrace of hybrid technology, challenging traditional expectations while promising both explosive speed and daily usability.
This SUV aims to balance serene city commuting with thrilling backroad performance. Examining its engineering, performance, and driving experience reveals whether AMG’s bold move has redefined what a modern high-performance vehicle can be.
Hybrid Powertrain: Redefining AMG Performance
The 2025 GLC63 S E Performance utilizes a plug-in hybrid powertrain shared with the 2024 AMG C63 S E Performance. Its inline turbo-four engine produces 469 horsepower, complemented by a 201-horsepower rear-mounted electric motor, combining for an extraordinary 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque. This system represents a departure from traditional V-8 performance while demonstrating that electrification can enhance rather than diminish driving excitement.
Advancements in motorsport, particularly Formula 1, illustrate that hybrid power can coexist with adrenaline-fueled performance. AMG has applied this philosophy to the GLC63, creating a system focused on speed and responsiveness rather than electric-only range.
Performance and Acceleration
The hybrid GLC63 achieves 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and completes the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds at 120.5 mph. These figures surpass the previous V-8 model, adding 168 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain delivers instant throttle response, allowing the SUV to rival sports cars in straight-line performance while maintaining composure in everyday driving conditions.
Dual Personality: Calm or Aggressive
On city streets, the GLC63 S E Performance exhibits a surprisingly calm demeanor. The engine is quiet, and the transmission shifts smoothly, making it suitable for daily commuting. Switching to Race mode transforms the SUV instantly. The throttle sharpens, transmission shifts become more aggressive, and the exhaust produces a more commanding note. This dynamic versatility allows drivers to enjoy both relaxed and thrilling experiences from the same vehicle.
Handling and Agility
Hybridization increases the SUV’s weight to 5,181 pounds, yet Mercedes-AMG’s engineering preserves agility. The low-mounted battery ensures a 51:49 front-to-rear weight balance. Advanced anti-roll systems, rear-axle steering, and the rear-mounted motor with a limited-slip differential allow precise cornering. Despite its size, the GLC63 maintains a connected, engaging driving experience uncommon in vehicles of its heft.
Daily Comfort and Ride Quality
The GLC63 manages to balance performance with comfort. In Comfort mode, the suspension absorbs road imperfections effectively, providing a smooth ride. Sport seats offer excellent support during spirited driving without sacrificing comfort for daily use. The SUV demonstrates versatility, capable of long highway journeys without fatigue.
Hybrid Philosophy: Performance-First Electrification
The 6.1-kWh battery primarily boosts performance rather than extending electric range. With only about one mile of EPA-rated EV range, the hybrid system focuses on rapid charge and discharge cycles to deliver immediate power. This design ensures that electrification serves driving excitement, emphasizing acceleration and responsiveness over fuel economy.
Exterior and Design Cues
The GLC63 S E Performance displays aggressive styling. Vertical slats in the grille, a curved roof spoiler, and 20-inch wheels with wide tires highlight its performance intent. Large brake rotors, a pronounced diffuser, and squared-off exhaust tips further differentiate it from lesser models. The SUV presents as compact yet muscular, blending SUV practicality with the visual appeal of a high-performance vehicle.
Inside, the cabin features AMG-specific touches such as race-inspired digital displays, Nappa leather with red stitching, and carbon-fiber-like trim. The Ibiza-style ambient lighting adds a youthful, dynamic vibe. While the center console uses piano black surfaces prone to fingerprints, overall assembly quality is high. Modern digital controls, touchpads, and optional head-up display provide an advanced, intuitive interface, though traditional tactile knobs are largely absent.
Practicality and Space
The rear seats accommodate four adults comfortably, and cargo space remains usable despite the battery pack raising the floor slightly. Some features, such as rear-seat climate controls and amenities, are limited, suggesting AMG prioritized front-seat performance and luxury over rear-passenger indulgence.
Auditory Experience
The transition from a V-8 to an inline turbo-four changes AMG’s signature sound. While the hybrid produces an acceptable note, it lacks the deep, resonant growl of its predecessors. Pumped-in sounds attempt to enhance the effect but are met with mixed reception among enthusiasts.
Braking and Safety
Despite the SUV’s increased weight, braking performance remains impressive. Stopping from 60 mph requires 107 feet, aided by large brake rotors and multi-piston calipers. Some reviewers noted a slightly soft pedal feel, though the system provides sufficient stopping power for high-performance driving.
A Modern AMG with Trade-Offs
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance demonstrates AMG’s ability to redefine performance through hybrid technology. It delivers breathtaking acceleration, sharp handling, and versatile usability while maintaining daily comfort. However, compromises such as the departure from the V-8 sound, limited rear-seat amenities, and rapidly rising prices suggest that its claim as the ideal everyday supercar depends on buyer priorities. The GLC63 S E Performance represents a compelling, technologically advanced interpretation of what a modern performance SUV can be.
