The midsize SUV segment is undoubtedly growing. With that being said, there is a a growing niche market for SUV Luxury Coupes. BMW was one of the first with the X6, followed by the smaller X4. Mercedes-Benz followed suit and introduced the GLE 63 AMG. At the New York Auto Show they are releasing a direct competitor to the BMW X4. The Mercedes-AMG GLC43 takes a shot at the X4 M with a sleek body style and high powered V6 BiTurbo. In the model hierarchy, the GLC comes one size up from the GLA and slightly smaller than the GLE.
The GLC43 comes with a V6 BiTurbo that delivers 362 hp and a maximum torque of 384 lb-ft with boost set at 15psi. A 9 gear automatic transmission (9G-Tronic) that delivers quick shifts in combination with 4matic all-wheel drive helps the GLC43 hit 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Despite having 4matic, fun can still be had with a 69 percent torque delivery to the rear wheels. Top speed is electronically limited at 155mph. The engine uses the same technology in Mercedes F1 vehicles, called NANOSLIDE which is a coating in the cylinders, to increase durability and efficiency.
Handling is tuned to be sporty and achieved with Mercedes’ AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension system. The system gives the driver the ability to tune the driving dynamics of the GLC by the push of a button. The Adaptive Damping system ADS PLUS can be adjusted between “Comfort,” “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes. With a number of adjustments to the suspension such as added negative camber, the GLC has a sport car like feel but an SUV body. AMG Dynamic select allows the driver to choose from a multitude of settings to custom tailor the driving dynamics of the vehicle.
The exterior is distinctively Mercedes-Benz. Its bold, sleek and sporty. A diamond grille and large, lightweight wheels add to the distinct AMG design. A unique touch to the design is quad exhaust tips in an diagonal array integrated into the bumper. The modern look continues on the inside with a flat bottom steering wheel and sport bucket seats finished in fine leather.
