Navigating the complexities of modern powertrains can sometimes raise concerns about vehicle performance. However, stepping into the Mercedes GLC Class quickly dispels any such anxieties. Despite its intricate engineering beneath the surface, the GLC delivers a remarkably seamless driving experience. A range of driving modes, including Comfort, Electric, and performance-oriented settings like Sport, Sport+, and Race, are available to tailor the vehicle’s dynamics. These modes intelligently adjust throttle response, stability control, suspension calibration, and steering feel to suit various driving preferences and conditions. Electric mode prioritizes all-electric driving, while Comfort mode, the default setting, operates as a hybrid, engaging and disengaging the gasoline engine based on driving demands. For enthusiasts seeking maximum performance, the Sport modes ensure the gasoline engine remains active, which also conveniently recharges the battery. Regardless of the selected mode, the GLC responds instantly when the accelerator is fully depressed. While there’s a brief moment for the gasoline engine to activate in Electric or Comfort modes, the surge of power is readily available and substantial.
Acceleration in the Mercedes GLC Class is characterized by its smoothness and consistency, effectively eliminating any perceived transitions between electric and combined power sources. This refinement is a notable advantage, as some plug-in hybrids can exhibit sluggishness when relying solely on electric power. For instance, the Toyota Prius Prime, in Edmunds testing, demonstrated a significant drop in 0-60 mph times when switching from hybrid (6.9 seconds) to electric-only mode (10.8 seconds). The GLC avoids this pitfall. Even in electric-only mode, it provides ample power (201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque) for urban commutes and highway overtaking. While hybrid modes undoubtedly offer quicker acceleration, the electric motor alone delivers respectable performance for everyday driving scenarios.
Mercedes-Benz estimates a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds for the GLC 63 S, marginally quicker than the 3.5 seconds recorded for the previous V8-powered GLC 63 S. This improvement, though slight considering the increased horsepower in the new model (previously 503 hp), is likely tempered by the 2025 model’s anticipated weight increase due to the added hybrid components, including a 6.1-kWh battery. Official specifications are yet to be released, but the added equipment suggests a heavier vehicle compared to its predecessor.
Despite the potential weight gain, the GLC 63 S never feels cumbersome or sluggish on the road. It possesses more than sufficient power for daily driving needs, and unlocking its full performance potential truly requires an expansive, open road. The transmission operates with remarkable smoothness under normal driving conditions, yet it executes rapid upshifts when engaged in Sport modes. The steering wheel paddles offer enhanced driver interaction and control, but the automatic transmission’s intelligent tuning generally ensures optimal gear selection in most situations.
Handling is a strong suit of the GLC 63 S, with AMG engineers effectively mitigating the impact of its weight on agility. Standard adaptive dampers dynamically adjust the suspension’s firmness in response to road conditions and the selected drive mode. In contrast to some competitors, such as the BMW X3 M Competition, which can deliver a harsh ride even on moderately imperfect surfaces, the GLC maintains a comfortable ride quality, except in the most aggressive Sport+ or Race modes where the suspension noticeably stiffens. The optional active roll stabilization system, utilizing multi-piece anti-sway bars, further enhances both comfort and handling. This innovative system can decouple the anti-sway bars from left to right, improving ride comfort without compromising cornering performance.
Body roll is well-controlled in corners, although the GLC exhibits slightly more lean than a lower-slung sedan like the C 63 S. Similarly, brake dive is present but minimal, and more pronounced than in a sport sedan. The brakes themselves offer substantial stopping power, but the pedal feel is firm, requiring slightly more effort than expected to modulate braking force, particularly during gentle stops. While drivers acclimate to this pedal feel quickly, a more immediate initial bite would be preferable. Another minor consideration is the available one-pedal driving function. Although it offers multiple settings, including an off setting, none of the configurations provide truly aggressive regenerative braking or bring the vehicle to a complete stop. In practice, operating the GLC without one-pedal driving engaged is often the more intuitive approach. While not included on the test vehicle initially, carbon-ceramic brakes are anticipated to become available as an option in the future.
Standard rear-axle steering enhances maneuverability and stability. At lower speeds, up to 62 mph (100 kph), the rear wheels turn slightly in the opposite direction to the front wheels, effectively reducing the turning radius for easier parking and tighter cornering. At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, promoting high-speed stability. Early iterations of rear-axle steering systems sometimes felt artificial or introduced unpredictable handling characteristics, but AMG has implemented the system seamlessly in the GLC. The vehicle turns in with greater eagerness than anticipated, yet the sensation remains natural and primarily enhances responsiveness. The steering system itself complements this agility. While not providing extensive feedback, the steering effort is finely tuned, and the steering ratio is quick without feeling overly sensitive.
The Mercedes GLC 63 S delivers an enjoyable driving experience on winding roads, although truly tight and confined routes may not fully exploit its capabilities. It excels when given ample space to unleash its performance, proving highly competent in a wide range of driving situations. While the new engine’s power and performance are undeniable, the exhaust note is noticeably more subdued compared to the evocative sound of the previous V8 engine. This is a minor trade-off for the advancements in efficiency and technology offered by the hybrid powertrain. In conclusion, the Mercedes GLC Class presents a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and innovative technology, making it a strong contender in its segment.
