The Mercedes AMG GLC 43 is powered by a 3.0-Liter V-6 Biturbo Engine that delivers 385-horsepower and 384-lb-ft of torque. The engine is supported by AMG Speed Shift TCT 9-speed transmission. The transmission is allied with AMG Performance 4-matic and Eco start/stop and Dynamic Select.
Although the GLC 43 is powerful, it delivers a reasonable fuel economy of 18-mpg city and 24-mpg highway, for a combined 21-mpg.
The GLC 43 does 0-60 in 4.7 seconds. Because the vehicle uses standard 20-inch wheels it is electronically limited to 130 mph.
Outside, the Mercedes rides on five-spoke wheels. LED head and taillights have been refreshed; and the old horizontal bars grille has been replaced with the Panamericana grille. Also, the upscale front bumper and older style tailpipes are rounded. Standard daytime running lights showcase the power liftgate and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof.
My test coupe had an Iridium Silver Metallic exterior complemented by a Cranberry Red/Black Leather Interior.
Visibility has some shortcomings. The sloping roof and wide rear roof pillars can create blind spots, but are monitored by safety sensors.
Vehicle Dimensions
186.2-inches in length
62.5-inches high
113.1-inches wheelbase
Curb weight of 4,235 lbs.
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There are several drive modes for your convenience with AMG Dynamic Select. You can choose between: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual modes, which changes responses and transmission shifts.
The AMG 43 stylish interior accommodates up to five passengers in comfort. Upholstered in black MB-TEX synthetic leather with Dinamica microsuede inserts. Also the vehicle leather and Premium Nappa Leather upholstery comes in a variety of colors. The MB-TEX leather is also found on the upper dash and door panels. You may also select wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber accents.
The front seats offer heating functions as standard, and are power-adjustable with lumbar support and driver seat memory. The chubby armrest is nice, but actually storage is too small and totally inadequate.
Door pockets are narrow and small, offering little storage. There is also not much open storage around the tall control-clustered center stack.
Rear seats can be folded back for grocery items or medium size boxes. The fold down allows for 40/20/40 split, freeing up to 49 cubic feet of space for larger items.
Photo: Mercedes Newsroom
I would have loved to have more headroom. Leg room in the front is adequate, but might be a little tight for taller folks.
Dual-zone climate control and push button start complement blind spot monitor and automatic emergency brakes. Ambient lighting and power lift-gate all work together to add to the GLC’s comfort and convenience levels.
A whole suite of safety features are included, like Rear- Cross-Traffic alert and Active Park and Assist. The Infotainment Center comes standard with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen display, assisted by a touchscreen interface.
The available technology includes Bluetooth capability, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and Sirius XM Satellite Radio.
The steering is the most impressive part of the driving experience. Whether navigating a country lane, super highway, or city-streets, the strength of the car and available technology gives one the confidence and peace of mind to enjoy driving quality at its highest level.
There were no government 5-Star Safety Ratings available.
Suggested Retail Price $63,000. Optional equipment like AMG Performance Tires and AMG Performance Exhaust System could add an additional $1250.
WARRANTY
50,000-mile/48-month Limited Warranty on new purchase.
Roadside Assistance for 50,000-mile/48-month.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this outlet or [email protected].
