Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 boasts 362bhp

Hot on the heels of our story on the facelifted Mercedes CLA comes news of a high-performance model of the Mercedes GLC. Called the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, the sporty SUV is a 362bhp version of the standard car, with a muscular bodykit, tweaked mechanical parts for better performance and 4MATIC four-wheel drive.

On the outside, a bodykit that includes new front and rear bumpers gives the GLC a sportier, more aggressive look. High-gloss black AMG alloy wheels add to the car’s visual impact, as do wider rear tyres and chrome-plated exhaust pipes.

Under the bonnet is a 362bhp twin-turbo V6 petrol engine that’s already been used in other Mercedes-AMG models. It powers the car from 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. The GLC 43’s 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system is set up to send more power to the rear wheels to improve the car’s handling and improve grip under acceleration.

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Mercedes’ 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox will be fitted to the car as standard and, as usual, there’ll be five driving modes called Eco, Comfort, Manual, Sport and Sport Plus to choose from. The sport modes sharpen gearshifts, throttle response and steering, as well as firming up the GLC 43’s suspension.

As you’d expect of a big car with a big engine, fuel economy isn’t the GLC 43’s forte, with the claimed figure coming in at 34mpg and CO2 emissions standing at 189g/km, even in Eco mode.

The interior is in keeping with other Mercedes-AMG models already available. The theme of black with contrasting red stitching and chrome details is familiar, as is the look of the multifunction leather sports steering wheel. Options for the GLC 43 will include leather upholstery, carbon-fibre trim, a ‘night package’ and 21-inch alloy wheels.

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The GLC 43 is the first mid-size Mercedes SUV to be offered as an AMG model and reflects Mercedes’ increasing sales success with performance-orientated versions of the cars in its standard range.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 will have its world premiere at the New York Motor Show in March and will go on sale in April. Prices are yet to be confirmed, but Mercedes expects first deliveries to be made in the summer.