The Edition 1 packs a serious punch under the hood. The AMG 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo engine teams up with a 120 kW electric motor to deliver a combined system output of 450 kW and 750 Nm of torque.

The result? A blistering 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.8 seconds with RACE START engaged, while the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system and active rear-axle steering ensure maximum grip and control.

What sets this hybrid apart is its 28.6 kWh battery pack (21.22 kWh usable), which provides over 100 km of pure electric driving range. The system supports both everyday city commuting and performance driving, with electric assistance always ready to deliver immediate torque response.

Each of the 12 South African units comes finished in MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey solid paint, complemented by striking yellow topstitching throughout the cabin. The Edition 1 specification includes AMG forged wheels, the AMG Night Package, AMG Exterior Carbon Package, and AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package as standard.

Inside, occupants get AMG Performance seats, MBUX Superscreen with passenger monitor, and hybrid-specific displays showing real-time performance data and energy flow. Yellow seatbelt highlights and exclusive AMG badging reinforce the model’s limited status.

The comprehensive equipment list includes the AMG Driver’s Package, high-performance compound brake system, AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, 21-inch AMG cross spoke forged wheels, and AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre.

Charging capabilities are equally impressive, with a standard 11 kW AC onboard charger and 60 kW DC fast charger allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes. The electromechanical brake booster provides seamless transitions between recuperative and hydraulic braking.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes include “Electric”, “Battery Hold”, and “Sport+”, allowing drivers to switch between whisper-quiet efficiency and full-throttle performance. The top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h, with electric-only driving possible up to 140 km/h.

Join us as we take a closer look at the brand new Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 on South African soil!

Enter the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE, a car that raises intriguing questions. Its specifications are undeniably appealing, featuring a maximum of 350 kW and 858 Nm of torque, resulting in an estimated 0-to-100 km/h time of 4.2 seconds. However, at a starting price of R2.2 million, does this AMG-tweaked EV justify a R400,000 premium over the highly capable EQE 350+?

The Evolution of the EQE to an AMG

The local EQE lineup currently comprises the EQE 350+ and the AMG EQE, both utilizing the same 90.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. The AMG variant shares the dual-motor setup of the all-wheel-drive 4MATIC models.

Interestingly, the AMG EQE unleashes its full power exclusively in Sport+ mode. When in Comfort or Sport mode, the motors are tuned down to 80% and 90% of their maximum thrust, respectively. Engage the AMG EQE in Slippery mode, designed for adverse weather conditions, and the sedan operates at half power, prioritizing safety.

While this might seem significant, it’s important to note that EVs inherently possess quick acceleration. Driving the AMG EQE in Comfort mode remains impressive, offering substantial midrange power. Whether in the city, on the highway, or navigating fast corners on a mountain road, the AMG EQE swiftly maneuvers. Although it’s unfortunate that accessing the sedan’s complete AMG potential requires activating Sport+, this approach safeguards against rapidly depleting the battery.

Regarding the range, Mercedes-Benz claims the AMG EQE can cover up to 535 km on a full charge, and their range estimates usually align well with real-world use. However, in practical experience, the EQE 45 yielded just under 390 km from a full charge. Disappointing, I know. The EQE supports DC fast charging up to 170 kilowatts, allowing the battery to reach an 80% state of charge from 10% in slightly over 30 minutes, assuming the Level 3 public charger functions as advertised.

Impressive Handling, Underwhelming Brakes

Despite its considerable weight—exceeding 2.5 tons—the AMG EQE impressively maneuvers corners owing to its low chassis-weight distribution between the axles, ensuring excellent balance. Additionally, standard 3.6-degree rear-axle steering aids the EQE’s agility, while the Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires provide substantial grip.

The AMG EQE boasts adaptive air springs with Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ settings. However, unlike the discernible differences in power delivery, the distinctions between these modes are less pronounced. Throughout, the EQE feels more attuned to a comfortable ride than outright performance, rendering it a vehicle suitable for daily driving. It maintains stability over rough surfaces and corners, although the steering lacks some road feel. However, it unquestionably delivers a thrilling driving experience.

One significant drawback is Mercedes’ regenerative braking system, which doesn’t operate seamlessly. Adjusting the regen via steering wheel paddles causes the brake pedal to move in a manner that vaguely mirrors the electronic stopping force being applied. Consequently, braking consistency suffers, compelling many to disable the EQE’s regenerative function altogether.

Luxury with Some Compromises

While the EQE sedan deviates from the soap-bar-like appearance of the larger EQS, it retains a somewhat curvy design reminiscent of a Magic Mouse. Despite AMG-specific styling touches such as aggressive front-end flanks and a small lip spoiler, the overall shape remains unaltered. The 21-inch wheels and the noticeable gold calipers hinting at carbon-ceramic brakes offer a touch of elegance.

Inside, the AMG changes are subtle, primarily reflected in badges and steering wheel enhancements. Despite lacking Mercedes’ expansive Hyperscreen infotainment system, the 12.8-inch central display, coupled with the standard 12.3-inch gauge cluster, provides ample digital space. Furthermore, without the Hyperscreen, the visibility of the lovely open-pore wood enhances the AMG EQE’s aesthetic. The interior offers numerous ambient lighting configurations, even featuring an animated light show, though this might be a bit distracting while driving at night.

However, despite the interior’s attractive appearance, certain materials below the midpoint feel less premium. While the dash and upper door sections exude quality, the lower door cards and the bottom of the center console feature relatively cheaper materials. Even the sliding piano black cover for the cup holder compartment appears flimsy, an unexpected flaw in a high-end car sporting the three-pointed star.

Driving Assistance and Unusual Sound Effects

Equipped with Mercedes’ array of driver-assistance technologies, the AMG EQE boasts adaptive cruise control that pairs with lane-keeping assist on highways. Though not as technologically advanced as BMW’s upcoming Highway Assistant found in the EQE’s competitor, the 2024 i5, it functions as a reliable Level 2 driving aid, making daily commuting more manageable. Various other driver-assistance features like active blind-spot assist and parking assistance perform as promised, although the Level 3 Drive Pilot system available in limited parts of the U.S. is absent in the EQE.

For enthusiasts of futuristic EV sound effects, the AMG EQE provides an assortment of unique noises. However, these sounds fail to be particularly captivating, some resembling additional wind noise, while others attempt to simulate an engine-like auditory accompaniment. Surprisingly, the artificial sound design in the EQE lacks the distinctive experience achieved by Hans Zimmer’s compositions for BMW’s electric vehicles. While the EQE’s sound effects add an element of novelty, they fall short of transforming the driving experience. The conclusion drawn is clear: when being unconventional, it’s best to embrace full-on uniqueness, or simply revel in the tranquility of silence.

Verdict on the Mercedes-AMG EQE Sedan

As impressive as the EQE is, does the AMG variant justify its substantial price hike over the EQE 350, which offers many similar features at a more affordable price? Frankly, the EQE 350 proves to be an enticing option, providing all the necessary electric power. The primary advantage of the AMG EQE lies in its bragging rights.

While you can read our First Impressions of the 2023 GLC 300 d here, let’s delve into the exciting features that were previously costed extras on the old GLC generation but are now included at no additional cost on the new GLC.

Avant-garde Styling Package

The Avant-garde Styling Package adds an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to the GLC’s exterior. It features distinctive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins. This package not only enhances the vehicle’s visual appeal but also underscores its premium status on the road.

Seat Comfort Package

Enhanced comfort takes center stage with the Seat Comfort Package. Designed to pamper occupants, this package offers additional features to elevate the seating experience. With adjustable lumbar support, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, and improved cushioning, the GLC ensures a relaxed and ergonomic driving position, perfect for long journeys.

Heated Front Seats

With the inclusion of heated front seats, Mercedes-Benz ensures that chilly mornings and frosty winter days won’t hinder your comfort. The GLC’s heated seats provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere, keeping you warm and snug throughout your drive.

Active Park Assist with Parktronic

Navigating tight parking spaces becomes a breeze with the GLC’s Active Park Assist. This advanced system utilizes sensors to identify suitable parking spots and automatically steers the vehicle into position, leaving the driver in control of acceleration and braking. Coupled with the Parktronic feature, which provides audible and visual alerts when nearing obstacles, parking becomes stress-free and precise.

Active Lane Assist

Safety and convenience merge seamlessly with Active Lane Assist. This feature utilizes sensors and cameras to monitor lane markings and alerts the driver if they unintentionally deviate from their lane. By providing gentle corrective steering inputs, the GLC assists in maintaining a centered position, enhancing overall safety during highway driving.

Privacy Glass for Rear Passengers

The GLC understands the importance of privacy for rear-seat occupants. The inclusion of privacy glass creates a shield against prying eyes and harsh sunlight. Not only does it add a touch of exclusivity, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.

Ambient Lighting

Elevating the interior ambiance, the GLC comes equipped with ambient lighting. This customizable feature allows you to select from a range of colors, creating a soothing and immersive atmosphere inside the cabin. Ambient lighting enhances the sense of luxury and adds a touch of personalization to your driving experience.

Parking Package with Reversing Camera

Maneuvering in tight spaces becomes effortless with the Parking Package, which includes a reversing camera. The camera provides a clear and dynamic view of the area behind the vehicle, making parking and reversing safer and more convenient. This feature is particularly useful in urban environments where visibility can be limited.

Mirror Package

The Mirror Package brings enhanced functionality and style to the GLC. It includes auto-dimming mirrors, which automatically adjust to reduce glare from headlights of following vehicles. Additionally, electrically folding exterior mirrors provide added convenience, allowing the driver to fold them in tight spaces or when parked to protect against accidental damage.

Wireless Charging for the Front Passenger and Driver

Embracing modern technology, the GLC comes equipped with wireless charging for the front passengers and driver. This feature enables convenient and cable-free charging of compatible smartphones, eliminating the hassle of dealing with tangled cords. With wireless charging, you can keep your devices powered up and ready to go throughout your journey.

Before we get there, if you loved my take on the new C-Class, you’ll love this review.

Let’s start with the exterior. The C43’s aerodynamic lines and sleek curves give it a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front grille is distinctive, and the aggressive air intakes provide not only a sporty look but also function to cool the engine. The rear of the car is equally impressive with a sporty bumper and twin tailpipes, completing the look of this striking machine.

Under the hood, the C43 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 300 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The C43 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, which is impressive for a car in its class. This is a second faster than the outgoing model by the way.

The top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. By adding the optional AMG Driver’s Package, it can be raised to 265 km/h.

But the C43 is not just about raw power. It’s also packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 10.25-inch infotainment system with voice recognition, a Burmester surround sound system, and a digital driver display. The car also features advanced driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

On the open road, the C43 handles beautifully. The suspension is perfectly tuned, providing a comfortable ride while still feeling sporty and responsive. The steering is precise, and the car feels well balanced in corners. The car’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, making it easy to control even on wet or slippery surfaces. There is one drawback though, the car seems to be track ready and track focussed at heart. When in comfort, it struggles to find and keep the appropriate gear, especially when driving in suburbia. But once you change it to Sport and Sport+, the C 43 is at its happiest. I’m not entirely sure whether that’s a drawback or not, but still, its just weird.

On the track, the C43 is a joy to drive. The car’s sporty nature really shines through, and the engine delivers ample power, while the chassis provides excellent handling. The brakes are strong and responsive, and the car feels well planted even at high speeds.

However, there are some negative aspects of the C43. The infotainment system can be a bit fiddly to use, and some of the interior materials feel a bit cheap. Additionally, the car is quite expensive, with a starting price of around R1,608,810  in South Africa. Comparing it with the likes of the BMW M340i, I’m super keen to see how many of these babies Mercedes manage to move.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is a fantastic car. It’s a powerful and dynamic machine that’s packed with advanced technology, and it offers an exhilarating driving experience both on the road and on the track. While there are some downsides to the car, overall, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance luxury vehicle.

I can confidently say that this car is a true masterpiece. Here are ten things that make me fall in love with it every time I get behind the wheel:

Powerful Engine: The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 comes with a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 450 kW of power and 850 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.

The Comfort: The GLS 63’s cabin is a comfortable and luxurious space, with seats that are both heated and ventilated. The car also has a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light and makes the interior feel even more spacious.

The Sound: The GLS 63’s engine produces a deep, throaty roar that is music to any car lover’s ears. The car also comes with an optional AMG Performance exhaust system that enhances the engine’s sound even further.

The Handling: Despite its size, the GLS 63 handles like a much smaller car. The car’s suspension system is tuned for sporty driving, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions.

The Technology: The GLS 63 is packed with advanced technology, including a large MBUX infotainment screen, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The car also comes with a suite of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

The Style: The GLS 63 has a sleek, modern design that turns heads wherever it goes. The car’s aggressive front grille, AMG-specific bodywork, and 21-inch wheels give it a sporty and imposing look.

The Space: The GLS 63 is a large SUV, and as such, it has plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The car’s third-row seats can comfortably accommodate adults, and with all the seats folded down, the car has impressive cargo space.

The Luxury: The GLS 63 is a luxury vehicle through and through, with high-end materials and finishes throughout the cabin. The car’s interior is lined with soft leather, and the dashboard and doors are accented with real wood trim.

The Versatility: The GLS 63 is a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations with ease. Whether you’re cruising down the highway, navigating city streets, or tackling off-road trails, the GLS 63 can do it all.

The Exclusivity: The GLS 63 is a rare and exclusive vehicle, with only a limited number available each year. If you were to ever own one of these, you’ll feel privileged to own such a unique and special car, and I love the sense of exclusivity that comes with it.

Overall, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a luxurious and powerful SUV that offers a comfortable ride, cutting-edge technology, and advanced safety features. Its combination of luxury, performance, and versatility make it an excellent choice for those who want the best of both worlds.

Launched earlier today in the North of Johannesburg, the Mercedes-Benz EQE is set to be the new business avant-garde. There will be two models introduced to the country, the EQE 350 priced at R1,800,000 and Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC priced at R2,200,000.

Compared to the luxury liner EQS, the EQE is even more streamlined, with a slightly shorter wheelbase, shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks – it carries the concept of the business saloon into the future, says Mercedes.

Specifications and technical data at a glance:

According to the presser issued earlier today, Mercedes-Benz South Africa will be introducing two variants of the EQE at launch, the EQE 350+ with 215 kW and 565 N. The EQE 350+ has a WLTP driving range of up to 645 km, while the Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC is rated up to 535 km.

Unfortunately, as you read this, pricing for either models has not been released as yet. More information will be shared on 18 January 2023 when the local launch takes place.

Later this year, Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa will also introduce the EQE SUV and EQS SUV, bringing the local battery EV model range to a total of seven.

The GLS is a big SUV. At about 5.3m long, almost 2m wide, and a smudge under 1.7m tall, it has presence in the same way that the G63 has presence. Looming and imposing, there are curves and contours but its large scale renders them geological.

It requires matching scale from AMG’s glitter, then. The 23-inch multi-spoke forged wheels look monstrous, but here they’re merely arch-filling.

The stand-out on the vehicle is the Panamericana grille, giving the burly SUV the glittering maw of a basking shark turned rap artiste. Flashy? Well sure, but if you’re surprised then you must be new around these parts. Even Mercedes’ Cavansite Blue paint, not typically a stand-out hue, gains unexpected depth on a vehicle of this size.

If the SUV is big, the engine is its equal. The AMG 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo is finished by hand, mustering 450kW of power and a lavish 850Nm of torque to all four wheels. EQ Boost lends an extra 16kW and 250Nm short periods, while also helping leave the stop/start system running smoothly.

AMG says it’ll do 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and, when you consider this is a vehicle with a massive curb weight, that number isn’t just impressive it’s downright bizarre.

Talking about remarkable things, put the GLS 63 in Comfort mode and it wafts around cloud-like. During our test period we took it to Mpumalanga and its no secret the road below may have been neglected to the point of all-out corrugations, but you’d never know it.

Of course there are the Sport and Sport Plus options if you wish, and individual control over the air suspension settings, and a button to open up the four pipes.

Once you’ve untamed the beast, hit the petrol and the 9-speed hurls itself down through the ratios, engine growling like a bassoon full of clotted cream as the GLS 63 just pulls. The suspension does a near-magical job of keeping things stable and level, with the active anti-roll bars lending their talents as you weigh into the corners.

The truth of everything is that you can drive the AMG GLS 63 much faster than you probably want to drive it. That mix of scale, weight, and animal instinct for self-preservation make it less fun on twistier routes than the numbers and capabilities might suggest. It’s an addictive ride and feeling we can’t yet describe.

Step Inside

Far better, then, to settle back into an interior that’s similarly lavish. Not for nothing, when Mercedes-Maybach decided to make its first SUV, did it look to the GLS for inspiration. AMG’s cabin puts more focus on the driver than the new Maybach GLS 600, but neither will prove unsatisfying inside.

What you get is leather all around, a panoramic roof, Burmester Surround Sound system, 64-color ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats with massage, 5-zone climate control, and soft-close doors are standard. So, too, is the twin 12.3-inch dashboard, the centre touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes’ excellent MBUX platform with its surprisingly capable voice control system. Vehicles like this tend toward the menu-heavy, and so being able to use natural-language commands like “Hey Mercedes, turn on the seat massage” rather than go digging for the right option is a welcome shortcut.

Everything looks, and feels, like it was hewn rather than assembled. The diamond-stitched AMG leather is worth a mention, as is the Burmester sound upgrade. At a fee you can get heating in the second row.

Seven seats are standard, with six an option. The first and second rows are plentiful in space and toys; the third is best for kids, or adults as we discovered during our trip to Mpumalanga.

You could well argue that, as options go, that’s pretty illustrative of the AMG GLS 63 altogether. On the face of it, a R3.2m SUV with 450kW is somewhat ridiculous. If I’m honest, for as much as I enjoy the experience, I’ll also readily agree that its a warranted one.

Let’s face it, though, the AMG GLS 63’s audience cares not a jot about fuel economy and how much it’ll cost for you to fill her up. Your options, should your priority be blistering speed and space for seven, are fairly limited. AMG made a Brutalist brawler for the driver who wants space and speed, and while we can argue the small print there’s no denying that on that front the AMG GLS 63 delivers. Do we love it? All of it.

Before we go anywhere, its only befitting that we tackle the technicalities and innards of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53. At the heart of the performance SUV is a 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine that is good for 320 kW and 520 Nm of torque. That petrol engine also has a 48V onboard electrical system. This EQ Boost starter generator is also responsible for hybrid functions, including energy recovery, shifting of the load point, gliding mode and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.

According to Mercedes all of this tech and power makes the 0-100 km/h sprint possible in 5.3 seconds. Don’t worry, we’ve tested this at Gerotek Test Facilities and its true.

To ensure that all these technical functions are able to output the right amount of power at the right time, Mercedes has fitted an electric auxiliary compressor that builds a high-level of boost, with no lag to provide power, until the petrol turbocharger kicks in. Everything is driven by the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission.

But how does the car handle on the road?

Given all tech and mechanics we’ve touched on above, what you get is an SUV that can be as soft and supple at the same time, to top it off it can be generally luxurious if you want it to, or as stiff as your lower back after a few sets of those kettlebell squats.

Seriously, it’s not odd at all. In Comfort mode, the SUV wafts generously. The air suspension eats up all of the roughest roads, and while there’s some roll if you take a corner hotter than your rear seat passengers would like you to, it never exceeds into that seasickness-triggering sway other big SUVs suffer from. I hate that feeling.

But once you flick the Dynamic driving selector either to Sport or Sport+, and the GLE 53 becomes a completely different monster.

A highlight of the GLE 53 SUV is the optional, foldable third row of seats which make the GLE 53 4MATIC+ a seven-seater. One would’ve never thought its possible due to the size of the vehicle. Thanks to the Easy Entry function of the fully electrically adjustable second seat row, the two rearmost passengers can conveniently reach their seats.

Up front there’s the MBUX system which is included as standard, and contains numerous AMG-specific content. With the widescreen cockpit, the instrument cluster and touchscreen multimedia display optically combine into one unit. Numerous functions can also be activated via the intelligent voice-operated control ‘Hey Mercedes’ we’ve come to know.

Would we suggest you check the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ out? Definitely. Especially the Coupe version.

Pricing: R1 837 000 (Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+) and R1 972 500 (Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé)

For years now, the E-Class has been regarded by millions as the heart of the three-pointed star and is considered the classic midsize luxury car.

First Impressions Count

First things first, the E-Class has been given updated styling with a new front and rear end. The facelifted front end, with increased chrome content, shows the new E-Class means business, with two chrome louvres and vertical high-gloss black struts. Meanwhile the headlights and split taillights are significantly slimmer than before to invoke some sort of a sporty vibe. A vibe we quite like.

Step Inside

As with the models we’ve seen over the past year or so, the 2021 E-Class is home to Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system with a pair of 10.25-inch high-resolution screens as standard. If you want you can upgrade these to 12.5-inch displays, which we highly suggest you do in order to properly enjoy the real estate.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with traffic integration, and automatic emergency braking all come as standard.

Also making its first appearance in the new E-Class is an all-new steering wheel with capacitive buttons. When we say capacitive, we mean the wheel is equipped with sensors and touch-sensitive buttons to control the media display and instrument cluster you see in front of you. A very high tech but welcomed addition to the model.

For those into technicalities, the E-Class comes in sedan, coupe and convertible form for this year. Starting off with the sedan version, there’s the E200, E220d and Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC+ to choose from. The AMG E63 S features a 4.0-litre V8 with direct injection and twin turbochargers good for 450kW and 850Nm of torque. The E220d has a 4 in-line motor with 143kW and 400Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the E200 also has a 4 in-line engine good for 145kW and 320Nm.

On the other hand both the convertible and coupe models are available in E200 and E300 flavours, producing 145kW and 190kW of power while peak torque comes in at 320Nm and 370Nm respectively.

Of course, the new Mercedes E-Class line-up also includes the AMG E 53 in Coupe and Convertible form. It has a more powerful turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost producing 320kW of power and 520Nm of torque. That EQ Boost we mentioned before adds 16kW to the power output.

Worth noting is that for the AMG cars, there’s now all-LED headlamps with a new design, along with a reworked – and AMG-exclusive – grille and a larger central star. All AMG E-Class models will get the surround view camera system AMG Drive Unit steering wheel buttons for the 2021 model year, too. Pricing starts at R920 000.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe is Stuttgart’s answer to an ask we’re not certain anyone has asked, though that’s not to say offering more power and zing that any customer in the market for a compact crossover requires doesn’t have its charms.

Priced from R 1,917,000 the GLC 63 S sits at the height of a SUV, with the roofline of a stretched coupe, and an interior you wouldn’t want to get muddy. We really tried not to, we tried.

On the outside, Mercedes’ “Panamericana” grille is mighty present. The 21-inch AMG Multi-Spoke alloys you see pictured here are a R17 300 option, quite apt as the GLC might look weird on anything smaller.

In the same breath, R5 700 for Obsidian Black Metallic paint might sound a bit imprudent, until you feast your eyes on it. The vehicle is entirely blacked out, something that we like and will have us praising Mercedes’ marketing department for months to come.

We weren’t entirely convinced about the duck-tail spoiler at the back, though. That doesn’t quite fit with the ethos Mercedes is running with, unlike the quartet of exhaust pipes we’ve fallen in love with, we think.

Jump inside, and you get a welcome reminder as to why Mercedes is making the best interiors in the auto industry at the moment. The new S-Class will topsy-turve things with a huge central display later this year, but the 10.25-inch screen in the GLC 63 S Coupe doesn’t feel small at all, and the 12.3-inch digital driver display is genuinely crisp.

Get into the driver’s seat and you’ll notice Mercedes-AMG’s thick-rimmed steering wheel is an unexplainable joy. The controls found on the wheel for drive mode and performance shortcuts are a great addition too.

Here’s where some of the updates come in, freshly added for the 2021 model year, the MBUX system we first saw on the A-Class supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the “Hey Mercedes” voice command.

When it comes to tech, our review car was blessed with the optional wireless mobile charger and Driver Assistance Package, including everything from advanced adaptive cruise control with lane-keep and lane-change assistance, to route-based speed adaption and active blind spot assistance. There’s also the Parking Assistance Package which feels more essential than anything else.

Of course the reason we’re all here is what’s at the other end of the SUV: the power. 375kW of power and 700Nm of torque courtesy of a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. Handcrafted, true to tradition, at AMG’s facility, and then paired with a speedshift 9-speed automatic. 0-100 km/h arrives in 3.8 seconds.

AMG’s Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive is standard on the GLC 63 S.

In case you haven’t noticed thus far, almost everything about the GLC 63 S Coupe is unrestrained. Lightly graze the petrol in Comfort mode and you surge ahead; a feeling we welcome warmheartedly. Dial things up a notch through to Sport and Sport+ modes in the DYNAMIC SELECT system, and let it rip. Literally, unless your temperament can handle it. Meanwhile, Race mode is the most excessive yet.

About three days in with our test vehicle, we were able to confirm that the GLC 63 S Coupe is one greedy beast; the cabin is so rigorously insulated from the world outside, it’s all too ever easy to find yourself whipping through a full tank far faster than intended. Truth be told, the AMG wants you to drive fast.

As we close off our time with the GLC 63 S, the reality is that cars like this are bought with the heart, and not the head. AMG fans will want the GLC, BMW lovers will look to something like the X4 M Competition while Porsche lovers will juggle between the Macan Turbo or Cayenne GTS. Bluntly put, any of the above will deliver on the “achingly fast SUV” scale, and sadly none of them will come close to showing their full potential on our public roads.

Take your pick of the absurd, captivating and dare we say charming SUVs, then, and take it to the nearest public track. You’ll love the AMG.