Mercedes-Benz is a master at creating new customer niches. If you’re one of those who thinks the plain-Jane GLC SUV is too boring while the AMG GLC 63 is a bit too extreme, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is the Goldilocks in the group. It’s just right in terms of power and speed.
The good news is the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV and Coupe are receiving more power and a host of tech upgrades. We previously thought Mercedes is scrapping the GLC 43 in favor of the GLC 63, which is frankly a bad idea.
Thankfully, the updated Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 will put all doubts to rest.
More oomph from the bi-turbo V6 engine
Both the SUV and Coupe models of the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 are getting a retuned version of the 3.0-liter bi-turbo V6 motor. The engine now produces 385-horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the old V6 mill, the engine is now churning out 23 more horsepower and more low-end torque.
In fact, peak torque is available from as low as 2,500 rpm all the way to 4,500 rpm. This newfound sense of power is made possible by larger turbochargers mounted closer to the engine. This means better response at any given engine speed. The engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic with a double-declutching feature in Sport and Sport +.
The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is a fast SUV
It doesn’t matter if you have a coupe or SUV version of the GLC 43 since both rushes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7-seconds. The top speed is 130 mph, which is already impressive for a midsize luxury SUV. But if that’s not enough, choosing the optional 21-inch wheels with high-performance tires will increase the top speed to 155 mph.
Part of the sporty athleticism is also attributed to the new AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. But unlike the previous version, the new drivetrain is rear-biased to give the driving feel of a proper sports car. The system distributes 31-percent of torque to the front while the rear receives 69-percent of the grunt.
It also comes with AMG Sport Suspension
In order to provide the perfect balance of ride comfort and sporty handling, the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is also equipped with AMG Sport Suspension. The system comes with air suspension and custom adaptive dampers. The suspension system is switchable between three damper modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport +. With this kit, the suspension can raise or lower the vehicle depending on the driving mode.
The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 features a new MBUX infotainment system
We first saw the new MBUX system in the latest model A-Class sedan. The new MBUX infotainment system features a new voice command system that understands natural language commands. It can also be controlled using the 12.3-inch digital instrument console or via the 10.25-inch central touchscreen display.
Both the SUV and Coupe versions of the GLC 43 feature revamped exterior styling
Let’s start with the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV. It gets a new AMG front grille with chrome vertical slats and new LED headlights. The taillights are also new while the driver gets to hold an upgraded AMG Performance steering wheel with haptic touch controls. The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV starts at $59,500 and goes on sale in late 2019.
On the other hand, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe also gets a revised AMG front grille, reshaped LED headlights, and new front and rear bumpers. It also gets the new AMG Performance steering wheel with haptic features as well. The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe starts at $63,000 with deliveries beginning in late 2019.
