Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV revealed

Mercedes has added a new performance model to its GLC SUV line-up. The AMG GLC 43 4Matic, is the latest model in a series of V6-powered AMG models, the GLC 43 shares the same engine that was revealed under the hood of the AMG SLC 43 and the C 43 Coupe and Cabriolet.

The talking point of the GLC 43 is the engine, which is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 developing 362bhp that can propel the SUV from 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds.

Not equipped with a full-blown AMG V8, the GLC 43 comes as a replacement for what would have been the GLC 450 AMG Sportline, a model designed to fill the void between the standard GLC and the range-topping GLC 63 AMG currently under development.

The engine is paired to the company’s 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox along with offering a choice of drive modes Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. The gearbox additionally also boasts a double declutch function and holds gears at maximum revs when in Sport Plus mode.

The GLC43’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system has been tuned to deliver a distinctly rear-biased distribution of drive, with 31 percent delivered to the front axle and the remaining sent to the rear.

Underpinning Mercedes-Benz’s new performance SUV is a revised version of the standard GLC’s optional air body control suspension, featuring air springs and adaptive damping across three modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. It also receives 19-inch alloy wheels as standard.