Watch The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 Snatch Alfa Romeo's SUV 'Ring Record
It seems Mercedes has been keeping itself rather busy at the Nurburgring. On top of its usual industry pool testing for cars like the new AMG A45, Stuttgart has also found time to set a couple of records: a rather niche one with the AMG GT 4-Door, and now a more straightforward feat from the GLC 63 S.
The latter 4.0-litre V8-powered hulk was hustled around the Nordschleife by AMG development engineer Markus Hofbauer in 7min 49.369sec, making it the fastest SUV at the Green Hell. It comfortably beat the time laid down by the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio by well over two seconds.
Each develops 503bhp, albeit from different means. Both have a twin-turbo engine, but the GLC packs an extra couple of cylinders: it has a 4.0-litre V8, while the Alfa has a 2.9-litre V6. The GLC is torquier, but it also has another 150kg or so to cart around, making the lap time all the more impressive.
Be sure to watch the lap to the end: it’s a terrific display of commitment from Hofbauer. The only thing is, we’re now left wondering what sort of lap time the refreshed C63 could manage. Fancy it, Markus?
Growing up on a diet of World Rally Championship highlights and lengthy Gran Turismo 2 sessions, a life in cars was as good as inevitable for Matt.
Comments
this thing looks awful to drive on the ring. The way it moves. Kudos to the driver for putting up with it.
Im waiting on alfa to somehow fit the hellcat engine in the stelvio and get the record back mercedes doesnt need pr to sell alfa does wich is why i understand that they are doing that
Why would you have this over the c63?
It is a better car for family. And it can do more.
Definitely taking the GLC63 over the Stelvio
V8>V6
I’m confused on why manufacturers are trying to make their suv be the fastest suv, isn’t the point of an suv to be comfortable, ergonomic, and able to handle a family?
You managed to beat a Manufacturer with a quarter of your budget and two more cylinders by 2 seconds on an 8 minute lap yes well done Mercedes
I wonder what time the GLE63S will get. Extra 100ish HP but the increased weight… oof