Mercedes-AMG heaps on more performance frosting with GLC43
This is Mercedes' first time offering an AMG badge on this vehicle, formerly known as the GLK-Class.
When it was called the GLK-Class, Mercedes chose not to give it a high-performance AMG trim. Now that this compact crossover has been redesigned and renamed the GLC-Class, that decision has been reversed, and the result is the 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43, debuting at the New York International Auto Show.
Meant to slot in above the base GLC300, the GLC43 follows the same formula that every other -43 has up to this point -- give it more power, slightly more aggressive looks and plenty of AMG badging. It's even got the same power output from its 3.0-liter, turbocharged six-cylinder engine as two other models -- 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.
Whereas the GLC300 is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive flavors, the GLC43 is AWD-only. Its 4Matic system even shares the same rear bias as the C43 Coupe -- 31 percent front, 69 percent rear (heh). Adjustable sport-tuned air suspension is also standard on the GLC43 -- just like it is on the E43.
It's not an unattractive car -- quite the opposite, in fact.
AMG-specific bits abound, inside and out. It's got larger inlets and a "diamond" style grille up front, quad tailpipes out back, AMG-specific wheels, larger brakes, a sportier steering wheel and other AMG-specific interior elements. Just like -- you guessed it -- every other -43.
Mercedes' decision to shoehorn this motor into anything with a three-pointed star is commendable, but it's all starting to melt together into one congealed mass. It's almost like I've written damn near the same story already. Oh, wait, I have. Thrice. Over the course of a single winter. At least the E43 had a different horsepower figure.
