Brutal SUV gets a modern makeover: 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance has arrived to take on the BMW X3 M Competition, Audi SQ5 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Mercedes-Benz has unleashed its potent new AMG GLC 63 performance SUV.

Gone is the brutish twin-turbo V8 and in its place is an even more powerful plug-in hybrid set-up.

The GLC 63 S E Performance combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine with a rear mounted electric motor to produce a beefy 500kW and 1020Nm. This is a sizeable jump over the 375kW/700Nm made by the outgoing one.

Mercedes-Benz claims the new GLC 63 can hit 100km/h from a standstill in 3.5 seconds.

You’ll pay for the privilege of the complex plug-in hybrid set-up with prices starting at $192,900 before on-road costs for the SUV version and $199,500 for the SUV-coupe model.

That’s a fair chunk of cash and is well above the asking price for a BMW X3 M Competition at $178,000 and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio at $162,700.

The AMG separates itself from the competition with its ability to run up to 14km on electric-only power and Benz claims it drinks 7.5L/100km, down from the 12.2L/100km of its predecessor.

The GLC63’s 6.1kWh lithium-ion battery can be recharged through regenerative braking, via a household power point or an AC wallbox charger. It can accept a maximum charge rate of 3.7kW, which will top it up in under two hours.

It comes with adaptive damping that delivers three driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport+. Instead of using anti-roll bars to reduce lean through corners, the GLC63 adjusts stiffness electronically.

It also comes with rear-axle steering. This works by turning the rear wheels slightly in the opposite direction of the front wheels at speeds up to 100km/h. This makes it more agile and reduces the turning circle.

At speeds over 100km/h the wheels turn slightly in the same direction as the fronts. This has the same effect as 'extending' the wheelbase, making it feel planted and more direct when cornering or changing lanes.

It’s got a fair bit of standard kit, too - a 21-inch alloy wheels, Burmester sound system, head-up display, heated and power adjustable front seats and a panoramic sunroof are the highlights.

Buyers can choose a limited 'Edition 1' pack for the GLC63 that costs $12,900, which includes a special paint finish, large AMG logo on the sides, AMG aerodynamic features, lightweight alloy wheels with Edition 1 and AMG labelling, yellow brake calipers and an indoor car cover.

Inside, it brings AMG performance seats wrapped in Nappa leather with yellow contrast stitching and an Edition Badge on the head rest.

There are yellow seat belts, illuminated AMG side sills, carbon fibre trim and an AMG performance steering wheel.