Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 boasts 362bhp

First mid-size SUV from Mercedes-AMG proof of sports models' success

Hot on the heels of our story on the facelifted Mercedes CLA comes news of a high-performance model of the Mercedes GLC. Called the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, the sporty SUV is a 362bhp version of the standard car, with a muscular bodykit, tweaked mechanical parts for better performance and 4MATIC four-wheel drive.

Advertisement - Article continues below

On the outside, a bodykit that includes new front and rear bumpers gives the GLC a sportier, more aggressive look. High-gloss black AMG alloy wheels add to the car’s visual impact, as do wider rear tyres and chrome-plated exhaust pipes.

Under the bonnet is a 362bhp twin-turbo V6 petrol engine that’s already been used in other Mercedes-AMG models. It powers the car from 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. The GLC 43’s 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system is set up to send more power to the rear wheels to improve the car’s handling and improve grip under acceleration.

Mercedes’ 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox will be fitted to the car as standard and, as usual, there’ll be five driving modes called Eco, Comfort, Manual, Sport and Sport Plus to choose from. The sport modes sharpen gearshifts, throttle response and steering, as well as firming up the GLC 43’s suspension.

As you’d expect of a big car with a big engine, fuel economy isn’t the GLC 43’s forte, with the claimed figure coming in at 34mpg and CO2 emissions standing at 189g/km, even in Eco mode.

The interior is in keeping with other Mercedes-AMG models already available. The theme of black with contrasting red stitching and chrome details is familiar, as is the look of the multifunction leather sports steering wheel. Options for the GLC 43 will include leather upholstery, carbon-fibre trim, a ‘night package’ and 21-inch alloy wheels.

The GLC 43 is the first mid-size Mercedes SUV to be offered as an AMG model and reflects Mercedes’ increasing sales success with performance-orientated versions of the cars in its standard range.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 will have its world premiere at the New York Motor Show in March and will go on sale in April. Prices are yet to be confirmed, but Mercedes expects first deliveries to be made in the summer.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Mercedes jumps on AI tech with new MBUX software
Mercedes MBUX dashboard
News
9 Jan 2024

Mercedes jumps on AI tech with new MBUX software

Most Popular

New BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: details and first drive of the sleek executive four-door
BMW M235 Gran Coupe front quarter
News
26 Nov 2024

New BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: details and first drive of the sleek executive four-door

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s Black Friday offers
Carbuyer best new car deals hero
Deals
29 Nov 2024

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s Black Friday offers

New Audi Q5 Sportback lands with SUV stance and a swoopy roof
Audi SQ5 Sportback front quarter
News
26 Nov 2024

New Audi Q5 Sportback lands with SUV stance and a swoopy roof

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
21 Oct 2024

Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps
Charging station
Tips and advice
23 Jul 2024

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
21 Mar 2024

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

Top 10 best electric cars 2024
Best electric cars
Best cars
16 May 2024

Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024
The best cheap-to-run cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024