This may look like one of the many prototypes we saw for the recently revealed Mercedes-AMG GLC43, but it’s actually something very different.
What you’re looking at is an early mule for a new Mercedes-AMG GLC63.
That’s right. The Affalterbach tuner is about to drop its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 into the engine bay of the GLC. This should make the vehicle a real threat to the only other high-performance small SUV on the market, Porsche’s Macan Turbo. We hear Audi is also planning a RS Q5.
Installing the V-8 in the GLC shouldn’t be a problem as the small SUV’s MRA platform is the same one found in the C-Class, which already has a C63 variant. Look for both a GLC63 and GLC63 S to come with 469 and 503 horsepower, respectively. A 7-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system should be standard on both.
This mule has a new bumper with a much more aggressive design compared to what we saw on GLC43 prototypes. Our photographer tells us the vehicle also had a distinct V-8 sound. Subsequent testers should adopt a new bumper at the rear plus the signature square-shaped exhaust tips of the 63-series models from Mercedes-AMG.
Considering this is the first time we’re seeing a mule for the GLC63, it might be another year until the reveal. This means we can expect it to be introduced next year, as a 2018 model.
_______________________________________
Follow Motor Authority on Facebook and Twitter.
