By Sala Masindane

What came first, came first the chicken or the egg? To date, we still don’t have the answer, however in terms of SUV coupes we all agree that the BMW X6 revolutionised the SUV coupe segment and everyone else followed suite. Merc enthusiast will disagree with that notion. In fact, fast-forward to 2017, Mercedes Benz introduced the GLC-Class SUV and later the SUV coupe version thereof. It was an instant hit and still is. Naturally, AMG versions followed. Recently we sampled the facelifted GLC 63s AMG Coupe.

What is new?

The changes in the refreshed GLC 63s Coupe include an AMG-specific radiator grille, restyled flatter LED High performance headlamps, wider wheel arches, 5-twin-spoke 20-inch light alloy wheels and a rear apron with diffuser fins.

Inside, quality is aplenty with AMG specific items and finishes. These include the AMG multifunctional steering wheel and the AMG sports seats. In terms of infotainment, there’s new landscape-shaped 10.25-inch screen with MBUX capabilities. It is now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is easy to use although the latest Mercedes double screens in other models are missed.  Thankfully the 12.3-inch instrument cluster compliments the infotainment system quite well.

In terms of practicality, the sloping roof may make things tricky for tall passengers at the back but other than that, practicality is decent all round including the luggage space.

What is it like to drive?

Start up the keyless GLC 63s coupe and you have a whole new world of growls and rumbling from the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with power outputs of 375kW and 700Nm of torque. Mercedes-AMG did not tamper with the engine, if it’s not broken why fix it? The divining experience has improved though and it is quite easy to feel that the engineering divisions making cars like the GLC 63s are putting immense effort in making them as dynamically engaging as they possibly can be. This makes the closer to their sedan and coupe versions.

The GLC 63s is quick, loud, and fun to drive. Much more fun than you’d like to believe. Cementing the case for the GLC 63S is its slightly softer suspension set-up than some rivals which makes it more family friendly. This is where most competitors seem to have been falling behind. The SUV should be able to do daily things without feeling too harsh. It should also be able to perform exceptionally well. Performance should not come at the cost of practicality and vice versa.

Would we buy it?

Is that a rhetorical question? Of course, we would buy it. The performance and practicality union appears to be personified hear.