“My GLC43 gives me the best of both worlds - performance and utility! I would highly recommend this car to someone who really likes to drive but may need some space for the family.”
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for 2018 is the arrival of the V8-powered AMG GLC 63 range above the existing GLC 43. The GLC 43 carries over without a substantial equipment or mechanical update.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC
1st generation, pre-refresh; third model year for the GLC SUV, second for the GLC Coupe, and first year for the V8 AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 S models.
Mercedes-AMG positioned the GLC range as a compact luxury SUV that delivers sports-car-like response without giving up five-seat usefulness, cargo space or all-weather traction. Compared with ordinary luxury crossovers, its identity centers on stronger twin-turbo engines, AMG-tuned AWD, adjustable air suspension and upgraded brakes, paired with a richly finished cabin. The regular SUV emphasizes everyday utility, while the Coupe trades some cargo usefulness for a lower, more dramatic profile.
The 2018 range starts with the GLC 43, an everyday performance model with a 362-hp twin-turbo V6, AWD and adjustable air suspension. The new GLC 63 brings a hand-built 469-hp twin-turbo V8 to both SUV and Coupe body styles, while the 503-hp GLC 63 S Coupe adds the strongest engine tune, a more advanced rear differential and premium leather seating.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new GLC 63 SUV and Coupe added a hand-built 469-hp twin-turbo V8, a performance-focused 9-speed transmission and variable AWD. The new GLC 63 S Coupe raised output to 503 hp and used an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic Spt | Auto, 9-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT / Automatic, 9-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT | Auto, 9-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 15–16 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 362 hp | 469 hp | 503 hp |
| Torque | 384 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500–4850 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 56.5 cu-ft | 49.4–56.5 cu-ft | 49.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.3 in | 37.3 in | |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Head-Up Display | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| SD Card Slot | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC?
The biggest change is the launch of the V8-powered AMG GLC 63 range. The 469-hp GLC 63 joined the lineup in SUV and Coupe forms, and the 503-hp GLC 63 S arrived as a Coupe.
Did the 2018 AMG GLC 43 change from 2017?
No substantial equipment or mechanical update was made to the 2018 AMG GLC 43. It continues with a 362-hp twin-turbo V6, a 9-speed automatic, rear-biased AWD and adjustable air suspension.
Which 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC models have a V8?
The 2018 GLC 63 and GLC 63 S have a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. The GLC 63 produces 469 hp, while the GLC 63 S produces 503 hp; the GLC 43 uses a twin-turbo V6 instead.
Was the 2018 AMG GLC 63 S sold as an SUV or a Coupe?
The 2018 AMG GLC 63 S was sold in the US only with the sloped-roof Coupe body. The 469-hp GLC 63 came in both conventional SUV and Coupe forms.
What is the difference between the 2018 GLC 63 and GLC 63 S?
The GLC 63 S is the stronger version, with 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque versus 469 hp and 479 lb-ft in the GLC 63. It also has an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential, a Race suspension setting and premium leather seating; in the US, it was Coupe-only.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC.
4.4
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC
(61 reviews)
“Excellent handing and the AMG motor is a must. Very comfortable and practical for my wife.”
“Excellent performance and styling. Very comfortable car for this much performance. Significant blind spots in rear side areas though. Be careful”