Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Drops Most Of Its Camouflage, Shows Interior

It is only natural for prototypes of the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 to drop a large portion of their camouflage since the new GLC was revealed. Our spy photographers caught the performance flagship of the GLC lineup in its most revealing form yet, showing the go-faster bits to go along with its extremely powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The latest test car to be spotted has just the bumpers and side sills wrapped, leaving little to the imagination. Actually, those are the only different body panels compared to the regular GLC range, although things like the lowered suspension, the larger wheels, the beefier brakes, and the wider tracks certainly help in making a difference as well.

The next-generation GLC 63 is expected to get a body kit that’s model-specific, to distance itself further from the lesser AMG Line models. Differences include the larger intakes on the front bumper, the sportier Panamericana grille, the extended side sills, the larger rear spoiler, and the more prominent rear apron with quad exhaust pipes. Overall, the GLC 63 looks like a properly hot SUV.

This time we also got a glimpse of the interior, which predictably looks almost identical to the lesser GLC models. We can see the 12.3-inch free-standing digital instrument cluster, the heavily inclined 11.9-inch central touchscreen on the center console, and the color heads-up display. The AMG gets a sportier set of bucket seats, and new suede-style upholstery for the flat-bottom steering wheel while we should expect sporty accents like metal and carbon fiber bits.

What is more important is the plug-in hybrid powertrain that lies under the bonnet of the SUV. A turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will be replacing the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 of the previous generation, just like in the new C63. However, thanks to the assistance from the rear-mounted electric motor, power output will be increased, resulting in improved performance credentials. Mercedes-AMG has previously stated that the new plug-in hybrid powertrain will make in excess of 644 hp (480 kW / 653 PS). This would render the GLC 63 significantly more powerful than the rival BMW X3 M.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 is expected to debut later in 2022, in both regular SUV and coupe-SUV forms, joining the also upcoming C 63 sedan and estate.