Mercedes-AMG has annouced a new mid-size SUV, the GLC 43 4matic. The mid-size SUV model series gains a particularly dynamic addition in the form of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC. The 367 hp 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine, the automatic transmission 9G-TRONIC with shortened shift times and the AMG performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive configured with a rear bias form the basis for an especially dynamic on-road driving experience. The autonomous design and the specially tuned sports suspension on the basis of AIR BODY CONTROL with adaptive damping adjustment underline the affiliation to the Mercedes-AMG world of Driving Performance.
Cosmetically, the autonomous design is enhanced with silver chrome coloured and high-gloss black features. It builds on the AMG Exterior line. The diamond radiator grille features chrome-plated pins, a louvre in high-gloss black with inserts in high-gloss chrome and the AMG lettering. The sportily distinctive air intakes in the AMG front apron feature fins in silver chrome. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules.
High-gloss black-painted, high-sheen 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels dominate the side view. The mixed-size tyres with the dimensions 235/55 R 19 on 8 J x 19 at the front axle and 255/50 R 19 on 9 J x 19 at the rear axle emphasise the sporty appearance. There are also high-gloss black door mirror caps and the silver-coloured “BITURBO 4MATIC” lettering on the front wings. The tail end also sports characteristic highlights and exudes sporty, aesthetic appeal with two four-pipe chromed tailpipe trims. The AMG-specific rear apron sports trim in silver chrome.
The interior reinforces the consistently dynamic bias with numerous specially designed details. Ideal for a committed driving style, the multifunction sports steering wheel in black leather features a flattened bottom section and red contrasting topstitching, and sits perfectly in the hand. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre boasts its own seat upholstery layout plus red topstitching. To match the seat design the door centre panels are styled in the same material.
With two large round dials and central colour multifunction display with a 13.97 cm (5.5-inch) diagonal the AMG instrument cluster places all the important information in the driver’s field of vision. The ECO display supports a fuel-saving driving style. Dials in a chequered-flag look and the distinctive typography lend the large displays an especially sporty touch. The list of optional features include performance seats with increased lateral support, through leather upholstery, carbon-fibre trim and the Night package to 21-inch wheels in a bi-colour design.
The AMGs are all about performance and this one is no different. The AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is characterised by a combination of healthy output along with low consumption and emissions. The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is used in numerous AMG performance models and is the only six-cylinder variant available in the GLC. The engine delivers 367 hp of power and 520 newton metres of torque. The GLC 43 4MATIC sprints from rest to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and its speed is electronically governed at 155 mph. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise AMG speed-sensitive sports steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience. The NANOSLIDE coating on the cylinder liners was also enhanced in the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines.
For more agility, more neutral cornering characteristics and higher traction even in intensive use the Affalterbach developers have designed an autonomous sports suspension on the basis of the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension. The Adaptive Damping system ADS PLUS can be adjusted in the three stages “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport Plus”.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC celebrates its world premiere in March 2016 at the New York International Auto Show, and sales release is on 4 April, with market launch beginning in June 2016.
The key data
| Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC | |
| Engine | V6 biturbo |
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Output | 270 kW (367 hp) at 5500-6000 rpm |
| Peak torque | 520 Nm at 2500-4500 rpm |
| NEDC fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined | 10.8/6.9/8.3 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions combined | 189 g/km |
| Efficiency class | D |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.9 s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h* |
| Kerb weight acc. to EC** | 1845 kg** |
* Electronically limited; ** Including driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg) and fuel tank 90% full
