Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC
While BMW is still thinking
about adding an M-flavored X3, Mercedes is already there presenting an
AMG-prepped version of their GLC luxury SUV.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43
4MATIC is the latest in a string of ‘43’ AMG-badged models to be introduced in
recent months, and just like the other cars that include the C43s in various
bodystyles, the E43 and the SLC43, it draws power from a twin-turbocharged
3.0-liter V6 gasoline lump, rated at 362 hp and 520 Nm in this
application.
Paired to Merc’s 9G-TRONIC
nine-speed automatic transmission with shortened shift times and five DYNAMIC
SELECT modes named Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual, and the AMG
performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive configured with a rear bias (31:69), the GLC
43 shoots 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds before topping out an
electronically limited 250 km/h.
AMG engineers put their
hands on the chassis too giving the GLC a standard AIR BODY CONTROL air
suspension with a specially tuned version of their Adaptive Damping system ADS
PLUS that can be adjusted in three stages “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport Plus”.
Furthermore, the four-link front axle was fitted with special steering knuckles
and load-bearing joints, while a more negative camber on the front axle and on
the multi-link rear axle promises to offer enhanced lateral dynamics.
A re-tuned speed-sensitive
electro-mechanical steering with a variable power assistance ratio, together
with a larger braking system with four-piston fixed calipers at the front and
single-piston fixed calipers at the rear complete the performance revisions.
Continuing the ‘43 AMG’
line’s subtly aggressive exterior themes, the GLC obtains a discrete body kit
with a re-profiled front bumper sporting larger vents, side skirts and a rear
diffuser, along with a diamond grille, four-pipe exhaust, 19-inch alloy wheels
and black exterior trims.
Inside, AMG gave the GLC a
sportier atmosphere with a flat-bottom, part-leather, part micro-suede steering
wheel, sport seats, red sticking and seat belts, and a revised instrument
panel.
The new 2017 Mercedes-AMG
GLC43 will bow at the New York Auto Show next week, and go on sale in US
dealerships by the end of 2016.
