New Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 revealed ahead of New York Show
Mercedes tops GLC SUV range with AMG-tuned 362bhp 3.0-litre V6 ahead of New York Motor Show debut
Mercedes has announced a new AMG-tuned flagship variant of the GLC midsize SUV. The GLC 43 4MATIC makes 362bhp from a 3.0-litre biturbo V6 petrol engine and will hit showrooms in June.
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The GLC was launched at the end of last year with a range of petrol and diesel engines, but this AMG version is the first hot variant –and the first six-cylinder- we’ve seen. Coupled with 520Nm of torque and four-wheel drive it completes the 0-62mph sprint in 4.9 seconds, with a limited 155mph top speed.
Those stats are identical to the BMW X4 M40i, which isn’t currently sold in the UK. They also make the 1845kg Merc faster on paper than the Porsche Macan GTS. Officially the GLC 43 emits 189g/km of CO2 and manages 34mpg, figures that better the Porsche but not the BMW.
The Mercedes is coupled only with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed autobox, which has a double-declutching feature for downshifts and shorter response times in Sport Plus mode. The AMG-performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive system also distributes torque with a 69 per cent rear axle bias.
Coupled to that, the GLC 43 receives both AMG Ride Control and Dynamic Select features, with three-mode adaptive sports suspension and five driving modes with AMG-specific tuning. Air suspension is also optional. The suspension has been reworked over the standard GLC for a more sporting drive, and the brakes have been upgraded.
Styling-wise, the GLC 43 gains a number of AMG-specific details including 19-inch five-spoke gloss black alloys, a black radiator grille and mirrors, tweaked bumpers front and rear and unique exhaust tailpipes. Inside, you’ll find a sportier instrument cluster, man-made leather sports seats with red stitching and a sports steering wheel.
The GLC 43 will make its first motor show debut at New York next week, with market launches beginning around the world in June. Mercedes have yet to confirm official pricing, but a spokesperson told Auto Express it should start from between £45-50,000.
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