While BMW is still thinking about adding an M-flavored X3, Mercedes is already there presenting an AMG-prepped version of their GLC luxury SUV.



The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC is the latest in a string of ‘43’ AMG-badged models to be introduced in recent months, and just like the other cars that include the C43s in various bodystyles, the E43 and the SLC43, it draws power from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline lump, rated at 362hp (367PS) and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) in this application.

Paired to Merc’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission with shortened shift times and five DYNAMIC SELECT modes named Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual, and the AMG performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive configured with a rear bias (31:69), the GLC 43 shoots to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60mph in 4.8s) before topping out an electronically limited 250km/h (155mph).

AMG engineers put their hands on the chassis too giving the GLC a standard AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension with a specially tuned version of their Adaptive Damping system ADS PLUS that can be adjusted in three stages “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport Plus”. Furthermore, the four-link front axle was fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, while a more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle promises to offer enhanced lateral dynamics.

A re-tuned speed-sensitive electro-mechanical steering with a variable power assistance ratio, together with a larger braking system with four-piston fixed calipers at the front and single-piston fixed calipers at the rear complete the performance revisions.

Continuing the ‘43 AMG’ line’s subtly aggressive exterior themes, the GLC obtains a discrete body kit with a re-profiled front bumper sporting larger vents, side skirts and a rear diffuser, along with a diamond grille, four-pipe exhaust, 19-inch alloy wheels and black exterior trims.

Inside, AMG gave the GLC a sportier atmosphere with a flat-bottom, part-leather, part micro-suede steering wheel, sport seats, red sticking and seat belts, and a revised instrument panel.

The new 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 will bow at the New York Auto Show next week, and go on sale in US dealerships by the end of 2016.

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