The New Mercedes-AMG GLC Models: A Leap Forward in Performance and Hybrid Powertrain

Introduction

The Mercedes-AMG GLC models have recently been announced, bringing a host of enhancements, improved performance parts, and the first-ever hybrid powertrain to be installed in an SUV Mercedes-AMG. These exciting updates are set to revolutionize the driving experience for SUV enthusiasts.

Enhancements and Design Elements

Both the hybrid and all-gasoline versions of the GLC models showcase several changes in terms of exterior and interior design elements. These updates contribute to a sleek and stylish look, capturing attention wherever they go.

The latest addition, the AMG GLC 43, impresses with its power output of 416 horsepower generated by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and permanent all-wheel drive. This combination ensures exhilarating performance and thrilling driving dynamics.

The Mercedes-AMG Exclusive Hybrid Powertrain

The GLC 63 SE Performance stands out with its exclusive hybrid powertrain, which combines the AMG M139l 2.0-liter turbo engine with an electric drive unit (EDU) on the rear axle. Together, they deliver a combined system output of 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque. This impressive power allows for unmatched acceleration and exhilaration on the road.

The rear axle houses a 201-horsepower electric motor, which is seamlessly integrated with a two-speed transmission and an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. This compact electric drive system ensures optimal performance while maintaining balanced weight distribution.

Electric-Only Mode and Battery Technology

The standalone hybrid design in the GLC models offers an electric-only mode, allowing for all-electric driving in certain conditions. This eco-friendly feature greatly reduces emissions and contributes to a greener driving experience. The GLC models utilize a 400-volt battery, similar to the power pack used by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team in Formula One racing. This battery is designed for fast power output and consumption, with direct cooling of the cells.

Enhanced Transmission and Performance Features

Both the GLC 43 and GLC 63 SE Performance boast a multi-clutch transmission (MCT), which replaces the torque converter with a wet-start clutch. This results in extremely short shift times and allows for multiple fast downshifts when required. The “RACE START” function, AMG’s version of launch control, ensures optimal acceleration from a standstill, adding to the exhilarating driving experience.

The GLC 63 SE Performance 4MATIC+ system allows for continuous and flexible distribution of engine torque between the front and rear axles. This ensures optimal traction and grip, delivering unparalleled performance on various terrains and driving conditions.

When it comes to braking capabilities, the higher-end hybrid models feature six-piston fixed calipers up front and single-piston floating calipers at the rear. This advanced braking system offers incredible stopping power and enhances safety on the road. The more budget-friendly GLC models are equipped with four-piston calipers at the front, still providing reliable and efficient braking performance.

Amenities and Infotainment System

The GLC models offer a range of amenities to enhance comfort and convenience. Leather and “performance” seats are available as options, ensuring a luxurious and sporty interior. The MBUX infotainment system takes center stage, featuring AMG-specific displays and functions. Special displays in the instrument cluster, center media display, and optional head-up display provide the driver with crucial information and a seamless user experience. The unique “Supersport” styling allows for driver-focused content to be displayed in a vertical format, further elevating the driving experience.

Pricing and Availability

The gas-only GLC 43 will be available in 2024, while the hybrid GLC 63 SE Performance is scheduled for release in 2025. No price has been announced for either model at this stage. The current AMG GLC 43 Coupe starts at $68,200 plus destination.

Additional Piece: The Future of Hybrid Powertrains in SUVs

The introduction of hybrid powertrains in SUVs, as demonstrated by the Mercedes-AMG GLC models, marks an exciting shift in the automotive industry. This move toward electrification not only aligns with global efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, but it also offers numerous benefits and opportunities for SUV enthusiasts.

Here are some key insights and perspectives on the future of hybrid powertrains in SUVs:

1. Enhanced Performance and Efficiency

Hybrid powertrains combine the best of both worlds: the electric motor provides instant torque and improved fuel efficiency, while the internal combustion engine offers power and range. This combination results in enhanced performance and greater overall efficiency, making hybrid SUVs a compelling choice for performance-driven individuals.

2. Reduced Environmental Impact

Hybrid SUVs significantly reduce environmental impact by lowering carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. With stricter emission regulations being imposed worldwide, hybrid powertrains offer a viable solution for SUVs to meet these standards without compromising performance or driving experience.

3. Transition to Fully Electric SUVs

The introduction of hybrid powertrains in SUVs serves as a stepping stone toward the eventual transition to fully electric SUVs. As battery technology continues to improve, the range and charging capabilities of electric vehicles will surpass those of hybrid models. The experience gained from hybrid SUVs will pave the way for future advancements in electric SUV technology.

4. Integrated Charging Infrastructure

As the demand for hybrid and electric SUVs increases, so does the need for a comprehensive charging infrastructure. This presents an excellent opportunity for governments, private entities, and utility companies to collaborate and establish a robust network of charging stations. The availability of convenient and reliable charging options will play a crucial role in the widespread adoption of hybrid and electric SUVs.

5. Advancements in Battery Technology

Battery technology is rapidly evolving, with advancements in energy density, charging speed, and overall performance. As these technologies continue to mature, hybrid SUVs will benefit from more efficient and powerful batteries, further improving their performance and driving range. This progress will contribute to a greater acceptance of hybrid SUVs among consumers.

Summary

The Mercedes-AMG GLC models have introduced a new era of performance and powertrain technology in the SUV segment. The first-ever hybrid powertrain in an SUV Mercedes-AMG, coupled with a range of enhancements and design elements, has set a new standard in the industry. These advancements not only provide exhilarating driving experiences but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. The future of hybrid powertrains in SUVs looks promising, with enhanced performance, reduced emissions, and a gradual transition toward fully electric vehicles.

A host of enhancements, improved performance parts, and the first hybrid powertrain to be installed in a SUV Mercedes-AMG are the highlights of the brand’s new AMG GLC models announced today.

Several exterior and interior design elements have changed on both hybrid and all-gasoline SUVs. The latest of which, the AMG GLC 43, makes 416 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and permanent all-wheel drive.

The Mercedes-AMG exclusive hybrid powertrain in the GLC 63 SE Performance combines the aforementioned AMG M139l 2.0-litre turbo engine with an electric drive unit (EDU) on the rear axle to deliver a combined system output of 671 horsepower. of force and 752 combined lb-ft. system pair.

The 201-horsepower electric motor is positioned at the rear axle, where it is integrated with a two-speed transmission with electric shifts and the electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential in a compact electric drive.

Mercedes says the standalone hybrid design also “ensures balanced weight distribution.” For the purists, electric-only mode allows for all-electric driving in “certain conditions,” weather and terrain permitting, we suppose. the 400 volt battery mimics the power pack used by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team in Formula One racing: specifically designed for fast power output and consumption with direct cooling of the cells.

A multi-clutch transmission (MCT) is featured on both GLC models, using a wet-start clutch to replace the torque converter. The result, according to a press release, is software that offers “extremely short shift times, as well as multiple fast downshifts if required.” And let’s not forget to mention the “RACE START” function, AMG’s version of launch control, which ensures optimal acceleration from a standstill.

In the GLC 63 SE Performance 4MATIC+ system, engine torque can be distributed continuously and as required from 50/50 between the front and rear axles to 100 percent at the rear.

On the subject of braking, the higher-end hybrid is designed with six-piston fixed calipers up front (15.4 x 1.4-in internally vented and drilled Brake discs) and single-piston floating calipers at the rear (14.6 x 1 in). The (relatively) more budget Benz it is equipped with four-piston calipers at the front.

The GLC 63, instead of using an electronic stability braking program when wheel slip is detected, reduces engine torque from the electric motor, which is transmitted to the wheels via the limited-slip rear differential. As a result, the company says, “ESP does not have to throttle the combustion engine, allowing the engine to run with higher torque. This improves agility and the reduced power can be used to charge the battery.”

As for amenities, leather and “performance” seats are options. The MBUX infotainment system features AMG-specific displays and functions. These include special displays in the instrument cluster, center media display, and optional head-up display. AMG’s unique “Supersport” styling offers the option to display driver-focused content in a vertical format.

The gas-only GLC 43 is for 2024, while the hybrid GLC 63 SE Performance is a 2025 model. No price was given for either. The current AMG GLC 43 Coupe starts at $68,200 plus destination.