The Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe has undergone a significant powertrain shift, moving away from the previously acclaimed 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 to a more contemporary 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol engine. While some purists might lament the change, this new engine is far from being a downgrade. In fact, it punches well above its weight, delivering exhilarating performance that redefines expectations for a vehicle in its class, especially when considering the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 price point.
Under the hood, the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces an impressive 415bhp at 6,750rpm and 500Nm of torque at 5,000rpm. This isn’t just numbers on paper; it translates to a genuinely potent driving experience. The engine remains remarkably quiet during gentle cruising, but awakens with a satisfying roar as revs climb, a clear indicator of the power lurking beneath. While the initial acceleration might not pin you back in your seat with brutal force, the GLC 43 Coupe builds speed rapidly and consistently. The integrated belt-driver starter generator provides an additional boost at lower RPMs, ensuring immediate throttle response and eliminating any hint of lag. This clever system contributes to the car’s eager and responsive nature, making it feel perpetually ready to unleash its performance. The result is a 0-100kmph sprint achieved in a mere 4.8 seconds, and a top speed electronically limited to 250kmph.
Power is channeled through AMG’s Speedshift MCT 9G automatic transmission, working in tandem with a rear-wheel-biased 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The AMG-specific power distribution, sending 31 per cent of torque to the front axle and 69 per cent to the rear, optimizes traction and enhances driving dynamics. The transformation in the car’s character when switching driving modes is dramatic. Moving from Comfort to Sport, Sport+, or Race settings is akin to flipping a switch from refined daily driver to focused performance machine. The GLC 43 Coupe’s responsiveness sharpens, the throttle becomes more immediate, and the gearbox shifts with greater urgency. The transitions are seamless, with short bursts of power delivered smoothly thanks to the well-calibrated nine-speed transmission.
Adding to the engaging driving experience are the responsive paddle shifters, which elicit a satisfying growl from the exhaust system on every downshift. For those inclined to test the GLC 43 Coupe’s limits, the on-board lap timer is a welcome feature for track days, allowing drivers to precisely measure and refine their performance. However, the car remains effortlessly comfortable for everyday driving. In Comfort mode, cruising at around 2,000rpm is relaxed and quiet, suitable for both city commutes and highway journeys.
The AMG Ride Control steel spring suspension, combined with an adaptive damping system, provides a firm yet controlled ride. While it leans towards the sportier side, the suspension effectively manages road imperfections without excessive harshness. Ground clearance is adequate for most driving scenarios, although the 21-inch wheels with their low-profile tires demand caution, particularly on roads with sharp potholes. Further enhancing the driving experience are the AMG exhaust system, AMG sports braking system, and rear-axle steering. The rear-axle steering significantly improves maneuverability, making the GLC 43 Coupe feel surprisingly agile and nimble, almost like a smaller hatchback. The steering itself is precise and communicative, providing confidence-inspiring control without feeling artificially heavy.
Despite its SUV Coupe form factor and perceived higher center of gravity, the GLC 43 Coupe exhibits remarkably controlled body roll in corners. It changes direction with impressive speed and composure, feeling planted and stable even during spirited driving. The adaptive dampers automatically adjust to minimize pitch and roll, further enhancing handling. Drivers can also manually select damping maps (Comfort, Sport, Sport+) to tailor the ride to their preferences. The AMG braking system, featuring internally ventilated and perforated discs, provides ample stopping power, instilling confidence in all driving situations.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe delivers a compelling blend of performance and refinement. While the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 price is positioned within the premium segment, the driving experience and technology offered justify the investment for those seeking a dynamic and versatile vehicle. The shift to a 2.0-litre engine hasn’t diminished its AMG character; instead, it has created a more efficient yet equally thrilling performance SUV Coupe that stands out in its category.
