The GLC series is Mercedes’ answer to the hot and heavy luxury SUV market. But that doesn’t make it German unless it’s got a bit of “umph” to it. That’s where the 3.0L bi-turbo V6 AMG GLC43 earns its proper badge. An even meaner AMG GLC63 variant is offered with a 4.0L V8 bi-turbo putting out a colossal 469 horses and a joy ride that will set you back a whopping $93,000 while the smaller engine, but still plenty of power, GLC43 will start at a much more modest $64,400.
WHAT’S NEW
Both interior and exterior styling of the 2020 Mercedes GLC43 have been completely revamped to offer the best of both styling and luxury. More importantly, power output has been boosted to 385 horsepower as opposed to the previous generation’s 362hp. A new, updated infotainment system has also been equipped.
MEAN LOOKS & PLENTY OF TECHNOLOGY
The 2020 GLC43 sits on larger 20” 5-spoke wheels. The exterior features automatic projector-beam headlamps that are adaptive to steering angle, a power liftgate, standard roof-rack, automatic windshield wipers and heated power sideview mirrors with integrated turn signals.
Front passengers are spoiled with luscious perforated faux-leather seats that are both heated and ventilated. Standard trim gets you a default 7” touchscreen while the premium package ups the screen size to a 10.25” center-console touchscreen that provides central access to its onboard infotainment system that’s also compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay.
Performance comes with safety included and the GLC43’s got some nifty tech tricks up its sleeve. In the event of a potential collision, the Active Brake Assist feature will automatically apply the right about of braking force to prevent locking up the wheels and reduce or prevent a head-on collision. The onboard safety systems will even intelligently monitor up to 70 parameters to detect drowsiness or lack of attention by the driver.
THE POWERPLANT
Getting down to the beating heart of the 2020 GLC43 is the growling 3.0L bi-turbo V6 producing a net 385 horsepower and 384 lb.ft of torque. Paired with the engine is an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The 2020 GLC43 also gets a performance tuned variant of the 4-matic AWD system that delivers exceptional traction and performance. All specs aside, the GLC43 achieves a speedy 0-60 time of only 4.9 seconds.
SPORTY PERFORMANCE
Without a doubt, power is where the AMG GLC43 gets its glory, but raw acceleration doesn’t paint the full picture. The tuned-up 4-Matic AWD system’s got a modified 31:69 front to rear torque split ratio, making the GLC43 feel more rear biased; in essence, achieving a sports-coupe like feel under hard acceleration.
Both steering and suspension are stiffly tuned to handle fast cornering without fragility or uncertainty on windy roads. This all makes for a sporty and spirited drive, however the more common city rides don’t always call for the ultra-stiff-ride.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2020 Mercedes AMG GLC43 is a great example of when luxury meets performance meets versatility meets practicality meets thrill meets, well you get the point! It’s a great combination of all the primary reasons for driving. Perhaps the only sacrifice you will have to make while driving the 2020 AMG GLC43 is the fuel economy. With a starting price of $64,400, the AMG GLC43 is a perfect place to start when on the hunt for a luxury performance SUV.
