2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Gallery

Sometimes you'd think Mercedes-AMG has a problem with physics. The performance arm of German automaker Mercedes-Benz presumably knows that SUVs are meant to be big and aerodynamically-unwieldy, but it couldn't help sprinkling some magic onto the 2018 GLC 63 S 4MATIC+. Specifically, the sort of magic you usually find under the hood of an AMG GT car.

That means a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo, with a faintly ridiculous 469 HP and 479 lb.-ft of torque. 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds is supercar territory: to do it in a family SUV with space for five and luggage is just plain ridiculous. Throw in performance-tuned 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and a fast-shifting AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission and you have a car that isn't quite sure if it's a ute or a rocket.

Maybe it can be both. Practical and – with huge rubber and air suspension – rock-steady on the road, the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ is quite the family hauler. The aesthetically-divisive design of its Coupe cousin may prompt some arguments in the parking garage, but the 510 HP and 516 lb.-ft it alone is available with in the shape of the S-trim will probably settle things.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Gallery

Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupé Gallery