The bulky shape in relation to the GLC 63's speed capabilities brings to mind the myth of the bumblebee's ability to fly, which is said to contradict the laws of nature. But that the new Mercedes GLC Coupé 63s AMG is fast is not in doubt after test driving it. 

The segment of sporty SUVs has exploded and the latest among these seemingly clumsy cars in terms of design are the coupé versions. First up was BMW with its X6 model and closely followed by Mercedes with its GLE. Of course, both brands released performance versions of these with the addition of M at BMW and AMG at Mercedes. After the X6, BMW released the smaller sibling with the designation X4 which is available as X4 M and Mercedes of course followed with the GLC which now comes with the AMG addition. 

At the heart of the GLC 63s is a 4-litre V8 engine with twin turbochargers. The power generated from this machine is a breathtaking 510 horsepower and 700 Newton metres of torque. This power is transmitted via a 9-speed gearbox to all wheels and means that the sprint from standstill to a hundred takes just 3.8 seconds. If you opt for the AMG Driver's Package, the speedometer will stop at 280 kilometres per hour, otherwise the electronic limiter is normally set at 250 km/h. 

Something Mercedes has always been incredibly good at is getting the song out of the pipes in the back to sound better than most other car brands. It is usually said that the turbocharger ruins the sound of engines, especially V8 engines. As an example, BMW has not succeeded at all with the sound of its turbocharged V8s which sound more like tuned Subaru cars. The sound of the GLC 63s AMG, on the other hand, is a delight for the ear and the mind. Raw and harsh with hints of the sound that comes from Nascar cars.

The GLC 63s AMG is equipped with a number of driving programmes that are available on a control where you would normally think that the gear lever is located between the seats. Instead, the gear lever is now located as a lever on the right side of the steering wheel. On the control labelled Dynamic, you can choose from 'Comfort', 'Sport', 'Sport+' and 'Race' modes. There is also a mode called "Individual" which allows you to customise the various parameters of the engine, gearbox, suspension and steering. 

A new type of intelligent all-wheel drive allows all power, if required, to be distributed to the rear tyres, making the GLC 63s AMG 100% rear-wheel drive. However, you cannot influence this yourself, but it happens automatically when needed. But you will feel it when it happens, that a car of this shape and size behaves more like a small and tight sports car is a nut almost as difficult to crack as how it is possible for bumblebees to fly. 

Mercedes GLC Coupé 63s AMG 

Base price: Over one million SEK.  

Engine: 4-litre twin-turbo V8, 510 hp. Torque 700 Nm.

Transmission: Front engine, 9-speed automatic, four-wheel drive.

Acceleration: 0-100 in 3.7 seconds. Top speed: 250 km/h.

Petrol consumption for mixed driving according to the manufacturer: 1.70 l/mile. 

Weight: 2020 kg.

Guarantees: New car 2 years, carriage damage 3 years, 30 years rust.