At the 2017 New York Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a set of sporty mid-size SUVs, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupé, alongside the four-door GT Concept car.
| Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupé: |
| Fuel consumption combined: 10.7 l/100 km; |
| combined CO₂ emissions: 244 g/km.* |
As early as 1999 Mercedes-AMG set a milestone with the ML 55. The combination of high-performance engine in the skin of an SUV opened up an entirely new market segment. The performance and sports car brand now occupies a unique position in the competition again as it presents its new mid-size performance SUV at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupé plus the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Coupé. For the first time, a mid-size SUV is now also available with the powerful eight-cylinder biturbo in two output variants.
| Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ SUV & Coupé: |
| Fuel consumption combined: 10.7–10.3 l/100 km; |
| combined CO₂ emissions: 244–234 g/km.* |
“For us, the new GLC 63 4MATIC+ is quite a special vehicle. It is no easy job designing an SUV to be highly sporty and dynamic while at the same time offering inherent extreme driving stability. This required us to put our heart and soul, along with our many years of SUV expertise, into the development of this vehicle. The result is an SUV that can be driven with high precision and agility and which, if required, is equally at home on a high-speed lap of the race track.
With our V8 biturbo engine, we hold a decisive USP in the Performance market. What is more, with SUV and Coupé, we offer the widest choice in the segment. Also, the technical closeness to our sports cars is visually underlined by the Panamericana grille, which was previously reserved for our AMG GT models,” says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Mercedes-AMG thus meets the wishes of those customers who, also in a mid-size performance SUV, are looking for a combination of superior power delivery along with a highly emotive, unmistakable engine sound. SUV and Coupé are available as basic and S-model variants: the proven AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine puts out 350 kW (476 PS) or 375 kW (510 PS) with a maximum torque of 650 or 700 Nm. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is completed by the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ in just 3.8 seconds, while the GLC 63 4MATIC+ takes 4.0 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).
The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder biturbo engine is already used in numerous AMG Performance vehicles. It is also installed in the AMG GT sports car with dry sump lubrication. A characteristic feature is that the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder “V”. The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust gas emissions. One mechanic assembles each engine in the engine shop in Affalterbach according to the “one man – one engine” principle.
The new GLC 63 4MATIC+ and GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ feature the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission, which made its debut in the Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+. The driver benefits from extremely short shift/response times. Fast multiple downshifts and the double-declutching function make for a highly emotive gearshift experience. A start-off wet clutch replaces the torque converter. This saves weight and optimises the response to the driver’s accelerator pedal input, particularly on acceleration and during load changes.
| Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+: |
| Fuel consumption combined: 9.1–8.8 l/100 km; |
| combined CO₂ emissions: 207–199 g/km.* |
After the E-Class from Mercedes-AMG, the GLC now comes with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, too. This intelligent system unites the advantages of different drive concepts: the fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction right up to the physical limit. The driver is also able to rely on high driving stability and handling safety under all conditions, both in the dry and in the wet or in snow.
An electromechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle fully variably to the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver’s input. Transitions are seamless and based on a sophisticated matrix. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
A striking characteristic of the exterior design is the expressive front end: the new GLC 63 4MATIC+ is the first Mercedes-AMG Performance vehicle to feature the Panamericana grille, which was previously reserved for the AMG GT family of sports cars. This design statement affirms the consistently dynamic design of the new Performance SUV and Coupé. A wide front apron inspired by the design of a jet wing, with a large front splitter, impressively embodies the power of the new models. By dispensing with a fine-meshed grille, it gives a view of the cooling technology – a typical attribute from the world of motor sports and a further differentiation from the other GLC models.
Driver and front passenger are enclosed as standard in sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather, combined with DINAMICA microfibre, which unite excellent lateral support with functional ergonomics tailored to the job of driving. The instrument panel is trimmed in black ARTICO man-made leather with contrasting topstitching. The high-grade look is underlined by aluminium trim.
The S-model variant comes with an even more extensive equipment package, including a Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather / DINAMICA microfibre, AMG badges in the front head restraints in combination with leather appointments and AMG instrument cluster with red highlights.
The SUV and Coupé variants of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 4MATIC+ and GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ are also available at launch as an “Edition 1” special model: the exclusive combination of equipment details turn the special model into the flagship of the range. In both body variants, the Night package in high-gloss black enhances the racing-inspired looks. The sports stripes on the sides of the vehicle are in yellow or matt graphite grey, depending on the paint colour and model variant. The matt black 21-inch cross-spoke forged wheels are provided with highlights in the form of yellow or high-sheen rim flanges. The Aerodynamics package also draws its inspiration from the world of motor sport. The racing feel is carried over into the interior. The sports seats are upholstered in black nappa leather and reprise the colour yellow in the contrasting topstitching of the specific diamond pattern.
The new mid-size Performance SUV celebrate their world premiere in April 2017. Start of sales is on 16 June 2017, while the market launch begins in September 2017.
The history of the G-Class is rich in superlatives and landmarks. With the new Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet, the off-road classic demonstrates that the definition of unique luxury can always be taken to a new level. Not only that: it is forever reinventing itself and providing yet more evidence of the potential that still resides in this classic all-terrain vehicle today, which has been in production since 1979.
With its superlative V12 engine, portal axles, electric fabric top and exclusive equipment specification in the rear compartment, this very special all-terrain vehicle, which is limited to 99 units, meets the expectations of customers who demand the very highest standards of their vehicle. After the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and the S 650 Cabriolet, the open-top G-Class is the first off-roader from the Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand.
S 650 Cabriolet: Fuel consumption combined: 12.0 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 272 g/km.*
The Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet is surely the most exclusive form of stylish open-top motoring. The exceptional G 650 Landaulet follows the equally spectacular variants G 63 AMG 6x6 and G 500 4x42.
G 63 AMG 6x6: Fuel consumption combined: 19,6-11,2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 459-295 g/km.*
G 500 4x4²: Fuel consumption combined: 13.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 323 g/km.*
With a length of 5,345 millimetres, a wheelbase of 3,428 millimetres, a height of 2,235 millimetres, almost half a metre of ground clearance and ample space and comfort for four passengers, the G 650 Landaulet surpasses all standards. This extrovert G-Class thus represents a unique combination of luxurious chauffeur saloon and off-roader. While the driver and front passenger are accommodated under the closed roof, the rear passengers can revel in a maximum of comfort: at the press of a button, a large folding top opens electrically to offer a view of the blue sky. The rear passengers enjoy the majestic open-air experience from their single seats. On demand, an electrically operated glass partition separates the rear compartment from the driver’s section. In addition, the glass can be changed from transparent to opaque at the press of a button.
Thanks to the 578 millimetre longer wheelbase, the passengers in the Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet benefit from extensive freedom of movement. The first-class rear seats from the S-Class significantly enhance the seating comfort and spaciousness. The active multicontour seats with ENERGIZING massage function have inflatable air chambers to provide high seating comfort and excellent lateral support. Massage programmes make for enhanced well-being – according to the principle of a relaxing hot-stone massage. To afford the rear passengers the optimum in comfort, there is a large business console with thermal cup holders between the individual seats. These allow beverages to be cooled or heated over a lengthy period of time. The controls for opening or closing the glass partition are integrated behind the cup holders.
The luxurious, exquisite character of the Landaulet is emphasised by the high-grade designo upholstery with diamond stitching, which is in all cases two-tone and available in four trim colours. Customers can choose between three different matching colours for the fabric top as well as four designo paint finishes. Exclusive “LANDAULET” lettering is worked into the rim flanges of the ceramically polished, 22-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.
Electrically extending entry aids make for easier access to the vehicle. Other exclusive design features include front and rear underride guards, large wheel-arch flares in genuine carbon fibre as well as, mounted on the right at the rear, the spare wheel with integral holder for the third brake light.
As is customary with the off-road icon, the “G” is forever breaking new ground: unlike previous Landaulets, which were based on prestigious saloons, the Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet also has what it takes to deliver an unforgettable off-road experience. Familiar from the G 63 AMG 6×6 and G 500 4×42, the portal axles provide ample ground clearance of 450 millimetres, allowing the open-top all-terrain vehicle to overcome even extreme obstacles in a masterly fashion. High drive comfort comes courtesy of the most powerful available engine, the Mercedes-AMG V12 biturbo, which delivers a maximum output of 463 kW (630 hp) with a peak torque of 1,000 Newton-metres.
Get a great look at the new GLA in this 360° video. The new GLA is starting the coming model year with an extended range of engines, targeted visual accentuation in the interior and exterior design plus updated equipment lines. This sees the look of the compact SUV gaining considerably in presence, and the body impresses with a significantly more powerful design idiom. At the helm of the model series is the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC, with an especially sporty host of equipment being offered in the Yellow Night Edition. The world premiere was at the North American International Auto Show NAIAS in Detroit.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC:
Fuel consumption combined: 7.4 l/100 km;
combined CO₂ emissions: 172 g/km.*
The look of the compact SUV gains considerably in presence, and the body impresses with a significantly more powerful design idiom. At the helm of the model series stands the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC, with an especially sporty host of equipment being offered in the Yellow Night Edition. The world premiere is on 8 January 2017 at the North American International Auto Show NAIAS in Detroit. The GLA was presented for the first time in 2013 and instantly became a model of success in a segment it has shaped and redefined. The GLA is characterised by its sportily dynamic design idiom, light-footed handling and extensive individualisation range.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC: Fuel consumption combined: 7.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 172 g/km.*
The expressive design with a clear SUV character remains the most significant reason to buy for most customers. Modified bumpers, additional light-alloy wheels and the new attractive colour “canyon beige” characterise the 2017 vintage at first glance. The GLA thus visually underlines its SUV genes to an even greater extent than before. The previous optional bi-xenon headlamps have made way for soft LED headlamps characterised by a colour temperature similar to daylight.
The customers have a choice between three chassis variants: as standard the GLA features a comfort suspension; the lowered suspension is available on request (in conjunction with the AMG Line or the Dynamic Handling package). With the off-road comfort suspension (optional) the body is 30 millimetres higher. This results in improved off-road capability owing to higher ground clearance, a higher seat position and more striking off-roader look.
The attractively styled interior of the GLA with high-quality materials and excellent workmanship is enhanced by new seat covers and trim parts as well as chromed control panels. The free-standing 20.3 cm (8-inch) media display is familiarly slim and is easily legible, as are the new dials with red needles. In the future the controls for switches on the electric seat adjustment in the doors will shine in silver chrome – and the stowage compartment in the centre console is also surrounded by a chrome frame. In addition, the nozzle rings are more strongly accentuated and thus underscore the harmonious SUV touch in the interior.
The Luxury Exclusive Package supplements the previous Exclusive Package with luxury seats featuring SUV-specific black leather in a buffalo look. The trim parts used here are a choice of trapezium-grain aluminium, light brown satin-finish poplar wood, plus high-gloss brown walnut. Especially exclusive: matt black ash wood or AMG trim parts in carbon fibre.
Alongside the brilliant illumination, the LED High Performance headlamps, available on request, are characterised by a colour temperature similar to daylight and relieve the strain on the eyes during journeys at night. The low-beam headlamps configured with 34 watts work with LED projector-beam technology, the main beam with LED reflector technology. Indicators, daytime running lamps and position light are designed as multifunctional fibre-optic cables.
At the tail end of the new GLA, LED High Performance headlamps with a multi-level function are used, and brake lights and indicators are controlled in three intensities. Full brightness by day, a medium level for driving during the night and a lower level when at a standstill during the night, so as not to dazzle other road users. This light control is especially pleasant for other car drivers when stopping at traffic lights or in traffic jam situations, as they are met by a pleasant, dazzle-free brake and turn signal lamp.
With the GLA, a further model series from Mercedes-Benz impresses where aerodynamic quality is concerned. The good flow characteristics, which contribute decisively to the low fuel consumption in everyday conditions and a pleasantly discreet noise level, were achieved through a multitude of aerodynamic optimisations in the high-pitched wind tunnel in Sindelfingen. These include a low A-pillar step with corresponding A-pillar geometry and aerodynamically optimised exterior mirror housings.
The generously sized trim on the main floor, an additional trim in the centre section of the rear axle and even an aerodynamically optimised rear silencer with a connected diffuser improve the air flow. An elaborate roof spoiler lip, specially shaped tail lights plus discreet side rear spoilers also ensure that the air flow at the tail end is aerodynamically optimal. Due to the many optimisations, it was possible to improve the cd value from the previous 0.29 to 0.28.
Vehicle safety is the top priority at Mercedes-Benz. The GLA has the “Active Brake Assist” as standard: it warns the driver if there is not sufficient distance to the vehicle in front and if required, delivers situation-appropriate braking. If the system detects that the driver is reacting too late, it initiates autonomous braking in order to prevent the collision or minimise the consequences. The GLA also has the “ATTENTION ASSIST” as standard: it can detect typical signs of drowsiness via the steering behaviour and warn the driver about an impending microsleep.
Vehicle safety is the top priority at Mercedes-Benz. The GLA has the “Active Brake Assist” as standard: it warns the driver if there is not sufficient distance to the vehicle in front and if required, delivers situation-appropriate braking. If the system detects that the driver is reacting too late, it initiates autonomous braking in order to prevent the collision or minimise the consequences. The GLA also has the “ATTENTION ASSIST” as standard: it can detect typical signs of drowsiness via the steering behaviour and warn the driver about an impending microsleep.
The rear compartment of the GLA was also the focus of the engineers’ attention, and they integrated new features here: with the exclusive optional extra HANDS-FREE ACCESS, exclusive in this market segment, the boot lid can be opened and closed with a foot movement, without using the hands or touching a thing – accompanied by a warning signal. The procedure can be completed at any time and a potential obstacle also stops the process immediately. In conjunction with the stowage facility package the load compartment floor is lockable – the lock is integrated in the flipper handle and operated with a key.
The sales release of the new Mercedes-Benz GLA is on 9 January 2017.
