The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe

The dynamic duo is back and better than ever

Refined performance, sharpened driving dynamics, and expressive design are just some of the updates Mercedes-AMG has made to the new GLC 43 4MATIC models. More powerful than its predecessor, the GLC 43 benefits from an updated 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine that produces 385 hp on demand. An optimally tuned AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G Torque-Clutch Transmission guarantees perfect sequences in all driving situations, considerably faster gearshifts, and AMG’s trademark acceleration. In conjunction with the AMG DYNAMICS agility control system, a rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive configuration gives the GLC 43 optimal traction and a sporty feel. The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe will go on sale in Canada by the end of the year. 

"The latest iteration of our new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe now feature the AMG-specific radiator grille, identifying them as fully-fledged members of our diverse and ever expanding SUV family. These mid-size performance SUVs combine new and expressive design features with enhanced performance, the innovative MBUX infotainment system, and everyday practicality. The exceptional agility and sporty driving characteristics of the GLC 43 SUV and Coupe underscore our commitment of ‘Driving Performance’ in this segment," said Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Performance meets efficiency: The AMG 3.0 litre V6 biturbo engine

The updated GLC 43 SUV and Coupe come equipped with an upgraded six-cylinder engine from Mercedes-AMG. This 3.0 litre 6 cylinder turbocharged engine produces 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque -- an increase of 23 hp over the previous model. In addition to applicative adjustments made to the software, the higher output comes courtesy of two separate, standalone turbocharger units. Mounted close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response -- the GLC 43 SUV and Coupe are able to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in a mere 4.9 seconds.  

The exterior: Sporty, dynamic, and unmistakeably AMG

The exterior of the GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe is considerably more expressive, and strongly identifies the new models as members of the AMG performance SUV portfolio. New distinguishing features include the AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical chrome-plated fins and a broad front apron that features matte black air-intakes. Other design highlights include restyled, flatter LED High-Performance headlights with flare-like daytime running lights, as well as an under guard in chrome or matte black.

When viewed from the side, eye-catching features include accentuated side sill panels that visually lower and elongate the vehicle. 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels fitted as standard, and widened wheel arches in the front and rear further emphasize the GLC 43’s sporty appearance. A selection of three further rim variants, up to 21 inches in size, are available as options.

The rear of the vehicle presents a muscular design, dominated by a wide apron and significant rear diffuser, and two round twin tailpipes that add to the sporty look. Similar to the front view, redesigned LED taillights provide the backend of GLC 43 with a distinctive light signature.
 
The interior: Sporty and spacious

The sporty design characteristics of the GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe continue all the way through to the interior of the vehicle. These mid-size performance SUVs feature sports seats as standard, which offer improved lateral support to both the driver and front passenger. Upholstered in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber, the seats are accented with red topstitching. Aluminum trim elements throughout the vehicle serve to highlight the vehicle’s sporty aspirations.

Both the SUV and Coupe models of the GLC 43 feature a variable interior that offer an extensive range of safety features, ample room for passengers and luggage, and a high-level of long-distance comfort.   

Ultimate control: The New AMG steering wheel

The new generation AMG steering wheel continues to provide the perfect link between the driver and vehicle. Available in nappa leather, the steering wheel features a rim with a flattened lower section, perforated leather in the grip area and red contrast topstitching that is both attractive and pleasant to the touch. Galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles allow for an even sportier driving style with manual gear shifting.

New built-in Touch Control buttons can be used to intuitively select the displays of the instrument cluster and the multimedia system by means of horizontal and vertical swiping.

As an option, the steering wheel can be equipped with a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, and two vertically positioned configurable colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering wheel spoke. With these optional features, dynamic handling functions and drive settings can be toggled directly from the steering wheel. This means that drivers can fully concentrate on driving without taking their hands off the wheel.

The MBUX multimedia system

With the new MBUX infotainment system, the GLC 43 is highly suitable for everyday use. Whether operated by the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, or via the "Hey Mercedes" voice control, the operating system of the GLC 43 is just as versatile as it is flexible. All of these interactive options are aimed at enabling control tasks to be carried out in the most convenient way possible.

A unique feature of MBUX is its ability to learn through artificial intelligence. With its predictive functions, MBUX anticipates what the user would like to do next. MBUX also recognizes and understands nearly all commands that relate to the fields of infotainment and vehicle operation, even if they are expressed in an indirect manner.

Instrument cluster and infotainment information are displayed via the available 12.3-inch display in front of the driver, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display to the right. With the three AMG-specific display styles of "Classic", "Sport" or "Supersport", the vehicle functions are brought immediately to life.

AMG Dynamics: Steady and agile

Drivers can adjust the handling and drive characteristics of the GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe to suit their individual requirements through the choice of five different drive programs: "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+", and "Individual". The programs range from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty. The programs modify key parameters such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Now linked to the AMG DYNAMICS control system, these programs allow for handling characteristics to be set accordingly to various driving conditions with even more differentiation.

This integrated driving dynamics regulation system expands the functions of ESP® (electronic stability program) and enables the car to become even more agile at its highest stability. AMG DYNAMICS optimizes the transverse dynamics with a higher lateral acceleration and better traction and load change reactions.

The different AMG DYNAMICS modes are named "Basic" and "Advanced", which are automatically activated once the respective drive programs are selected. In addition to agility functions, drivers can also choose between "Stable" and "Agile" lateral dynamics functions.

  • "Basic" is assigned to the "Slippery" and "Comfort" drive programs. In this case, the GLC 43 demonstrates very stable handling with a high level of yaw damping.
  • "Advanced" is activated in the "Sport" and "Sport+" programs. In this case, the GLC 43 is neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, steering angle requirement, and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.

Speedy shifting: The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission

The GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe come equipped with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G Torque-Clutch transmission that ensures responsive shifting with short shift times. Optimally tuned to the engine, the transmission guarantees the trademark acceleration typical of any AMG. An "M" mode, activated by shift paddles on the steering wheel, allows drivers to enter into manual gear shifting, providing for an even more dynamic drive.

Multiple downshifts allow for spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function of the "Sport" and "Sport+" drive programs make for an even more exciting driving experience. 

Optimal grip: AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive

With AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, the new GLC 43 produces maximum traction and dynamic handling. Featuring a rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent, the GLC 43 delivers enhanced driving dynamics, higher lateral acceleration, as well as improved traction when accelerating. The single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive system is flange-mounted to the transmission as a separate system.

AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension

More agility, neutral cornering performance, and greater traction come courtesy of the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension. Developed in Affalterbach, the multi-chamber air suspension, which has a particularly sporty spring/damper set-up and a continuously adjustable damping ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System), combines outstanding driving dynamics with high ride comfort. A pneumatic all-round level control system, keeps the vehicle level at all times, independently of the load it is carrying. At high speeds, the vehicle is lowered to reduce wind resistance and further increase stability.

The adaptive damping adjustment of AMG RIDE CONTROL+ comes as standard. This fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjust the damping at each wheel to suit current requirements. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel, and is dependant on the driving style, road surface, and the selected suspension setting. Via a switch on the centre console, drivers can choose between the three different damper characteristics of "Comfort", "Sport" or "Sport+" to influence the driving experience.

Precise feedback: The AMG speed-sensitive steering

Speed-sensitive, electro-mechanical sports power steering reinforces the GLC 43’s sporty driving style with its precise and authentic feedback. For unadulterated road-feel, the steering servo assistance is reduced at high speeds, and continuously increased at lower speeds. At high speeds, the best possible control of the vehicle is maintained, and at low speeds, comparatively little steering force is required. The steering assistance is assigned to the various stages of the AMG DYNAMICS system. In ‘Advanced’ the driver receives more feedback about the driving status.

Technical Data at a glance

 

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC
SUV & Coupe

Engine

3.0-litre V6 with direct injection and biturbo charging

Displacement

2,996 cc

Max output

385 hp @ 5,500-6,000 rpm

Peak Torque

384 lb-ft @ 2,500 – 4,500 rpm

Drive System

AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with AMG-specific power distribution

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G

Acceleration (0-100 km/h)

4.9 s

Top Speed

250 km/h**

Canadian Market Introduction

Late 2019

** electronically limited, AMG Driver’s Package required

 

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About Mercedes-Benz Canada

Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,200 people in 14 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 49,758 vehicles in 2018. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the fifth consecutive year.

For more information, please contact:

Lindsay Archibald    416-847-7563        lindsay.archibald@mercedes-benz.ca
Lucas Dias            416-847-7449            lucas.e.dias@mercedes-benz.ca