Overall Rating
Updated on: July 23, 2020
Automotive Journalist
The Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 43 SUV, though the name may sound like an algebra formula its actually a car and quite a good one. This AMG-fied GLC is a complete beast but with some high standards. The AMG GLC 43 is powered with a 3.0L V6 engine mated to a crazy 9-speed transmission.
Amidst the performance configuration, the German commands power with a style statement in amalgamation with a host of sumptuous features and advanced technology.
See detailed review »Uber interior
Plethora of standard features
Smooth ride
Decent cargo space
Rivals are more fuel efficient
Low towing capacity
Redesigned headlight setup
AMG light-alloy wheels
MBUX infotainment system
$59500
4dr SUV
5
all wheel drive
183
385 hp @ 6100 rpm
384 lbs.-ft. @ 2500 rpm
9-speed automatic
Independent front multi-link suspension
Independent rear multi-link suspension
14.2/12.6
113.1 in.
183.5 in.
76 in.
64 in.
4191 lbs.
6.7 in.
56.5 cu ft.
3500
5.3 sec.
13.8
18/21/24 mpg
4 yr. /50000 mi.
4 yr./ 50000 mi.
4 yr. /50000 mi.
Yes
$59,500
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 9A) | Starting at $59,500 MSRP | (18/21/24) | 385 hp @ 6100 rpm, 3 L, V-6, Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded | 9-speed automatic | all wheel drive | 5 |
$63,000
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
S 4MATIC 2dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl 9A) | Starting at $63,000 MSRP | (18/21/24) | 503 hp @ 5500 rpm, 4 L, V-8, Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded | 9-Speed Automatic | all wheel drive | 5 |
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Features
Engine And Performance
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Final Verdict
7.7
OVERALL RATING
Overall Rating
Starting at $59,000, the Mercedes AMG GLC 43 comes kitted with rich and opulent highlights while housing a widespread list of safety tech. Moving up against the likes of Audi SQ5 and the BMW X3 M40i, the SUV sees a healthy rivalry with these SUVs. Can it survive ?
7.0/10
Features
9.0/10
Engine and Performance
6.0/10
Fuel Economy
8.0/10
Interior
8.0/10
Exterior
7.9/10
Final Verdict
The AMG GLC 43 is an integral member of the GLC family. The SUV is offered in just one trim offered at a sticker price of $59,000. For that price, you get a 3.0L V6 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and a 4matic drivetrain.
Trims |
AMG GLC 43 4matic |
---|---|
MSRP |
$59,500 |
Key Features |
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT |
AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC |
|
20-inch AMG multispoke wheels, silver |
|
3-spoke multifunction steering wheel |
|
Electromechanical power steering |
|
ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist |
|
Adaptive braking technology |
|
Nappa leather multifunction steering wheel |
|
Topstitched MB-Tex upper dash and door trim |
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However, the AMG GLC 43 is loaded with all the necessary features you can still have more. With a little more dough you can add the Advance light package and AMG Night Package to enhance the feel.
The AMG GLC 43 is the first Merc to feature the AMG-tweaked Twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine. This powerplant is mated to a crazy 9-speed automatic transmission which isn't just for show, it does enhance the handling and keep the engine on the boil. The V6 churns out an impressive 362 hp of power and 384-pound-feet of torque.
Models |
Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 2.0L Premium AWD |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S (V6) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine |
3.0L V6 Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded |
3.0L TFSI V6 |
Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-6 3.0L |
3.0L turbo V6 |
3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
3.0L Supercharged V6 |
3.0L Supercharged V6 |
Transmission |
9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic |
8-speed DCT |
8 Speed Auto |
8 Speed Automatic |
8 Speed Automatic |
8 Speed Automatic |
8 Speed Automatic |
Horsepower |
385 hp@ 6100rpm |
354hp@5400rpm |
355hp @ 5,500 rpm |
340hp |
345hp |
380 hp |
380hp |
Torque |
384 ft-lbs@ 2500rpm |
369ft-lbs@1370rpm |
369 lb.-ft. @ 1,520 rpm |
331 lb.ft |
369 lb.ft |
332 lb.ft |
332 lb.ft |
The powertrain beneath the GLC 43 is as convincing as most of the other midsize luxury SUVs in the class, on par with Jaguar F-Pace S and the Range Rover Velar S which come with a supercharged V6 engine.
The GLC 43 might have quite a powerful engine and that translates to the tarmac. It takes 4.7 seconds to accelerate to a speed of 60 MPH. It is almost the fastest of the lot and on par with the BMW X3 while the rest of the competition lags behind by close to half a second and more. The supercharged engines on the F-Pace and Range Rover aren’t as quick either.
Models |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 Premium |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S (V6) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
4.7 sec |
5.1 sec |
4.6 sec |
5.9 sec |
5.8 sec |
5.1 sec |
5.3 sec |
Quarter mile |
12.9 sec |
13.5 sec |
13.4 sec |
14.4 sec |
12.3 sec |
TBD |
TBD |
Engine |
3.0L V6 Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded |
3.0L V6 |
3.0L |
3.0L turbo V6 |
3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
3.0L Supercharged V6 |
3.0L Supercharged V6 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
4149 |
4321 |
4277 |
4,377 |
4,649 |
4,090 |
4,471 |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
N/A |
7.4 |
7.7 |
5.04 |
6.4 |
TBD | TBD |
Though the AMG competes right on with the competition and brings justice to the AMG name. Most of the rivals are slower than the Benz.
The braking on the AMG GLC 43 is strong and firm, paired with the summer tires you get a grippy ride. The pedal feel is long and steady, easy to apply on city and highway. The car can halt from a speed of 60mph at 115 feet.
Model |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 Premium |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S (V6) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
14.2 |
13.3 |
13.7 |
13.7 |
14.9 |
Tbd |
13.8 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
12.6 |
13 |
13.5 |
12.9 |
12.9 |
Tbd |
12.8 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
TBD |
N/A |
109 |
TBD |
118 |
TBD |
TBD |
The opposition may show some commendable numbers but when it comes to braking but the GLC 43 is the true winner in the braking aspect. The Audi SQ5 Premium Plus is the heaviest car in the lot whose effects are clearly visible in its 123 feet performance.
The GLC 43 is impressive for an SUV, the steering might lack the necessary feel but the sports mode covers that up. The handling is nimble though you may experience some body roll on tricky pavements. The sports mode brings the necessary heaviness to the steering for a more responsive steer and the comfort mode gives it a plush ride experience.
Beginning with AMG Dynamic Selects, it presents the driver with multiple driving modes such as Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport, and Sport + modes. These modes control the suspension and drivetrain and therefore produces traction in accordance with the road conditions.
The V6 staring powertrain might be a little thirsty but doesn't share the same appetite as the competitors. Its 19 mpg of city mileage might not be that compelling but the car gains an edge on the highway with its 25 mpg mileage. Combined the 21 mpg mileage fits the performance SUV segment perfectly.
Model |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 Premium |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
19 |
19 |
20 |
25 |
16.2 |
18 |
TBD |
MPG (highway) |
25 |
24 |
27 |
35 |
24 |
23 |
TBD |
MPG (combined) |
21 |
21 |
23 |
30 |
20.2 |
20 |
TBD |
The 21 mpg of combined mileage is not the best on the market but it does strive well with the competition. The X3, however, is the more glamorous car with the best fuel efficiency amongst the lot.
Only the Mercedes could bring justice to the performance luxury combination. The uber interior quality topped with the Merc styling is a decent cabin to be in. The turbine-like air vents are molded in chrome and blend right with the black Nappa leather seats. The AMG GLC 43 offer top-notch comfort with its front and rear heated seats, everyone can be nice and toasty in this car.
The 41.9 inches of headroom space and 40.8 front legroom is enough to accommodate longer drivers. The rear section also shares a spacious 38.5 inches headroom and 37.3 inches of legroom space.
Model |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi Q5 2.0L Premium AWD |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
41.9/57.3/40.8 |
41.7/57.7/41.0 |
40.0/57.6/40.3 |
TBD |
TBD |
37.8/57.7/40.3 |
38.1/NA/40.3 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
38.5/56.5/37.3 |
39.3/56.5/37.8 |
38.5/56.0/36.4 |
TBD |
TBD |
37.5/55.8/37.2 |
38/NA/37.2 |
Some interior features include in the GLC 43 are as follows -
The 7-inch infotainment screen takes the center stage, it's controlled through a touchpad controller between the seats. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the AMG GLC 43. Jumping from menu to menu on this car is easy but it will take time getting used to the controller. Other features on the infotainment territory are-
The automatic tailgate on the AMG GLC 43 opens up a nice 19.4 cubic feet space. However, with the touch of a button, the second seats go 60/ 40 split to unlock the complete 56.5 cubic feet cargo potential on the AMG GLC 43, making enough space to pack for a weekend fishing.
Model |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 3.0L Premium |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume (ft.3) |
56.5 |
25.1 |
28.7 |
27.1 |
19.4 |
33.5 |
34.4 |
With the rear seats up the 19.4 cubic inch space might not feel that compelling, the competition feature better boot space. However, the AMG GLC 43 overcomes this adversity with the full 56.5 cubic inch space after the seats down.
No other SUV can undermine the GLC 43s exterior, the car is bad in black for Christ's sake! Right, from the extra-long wheels to extended fender flares you get a decent looking car from front to back. The SUV measures a long 183.5 inches in length while the width and height for the car are 74.4 inches and 64.1 inches respectively.
The GLC seems like SUV which is pretty compact but stands tall when placed beside its rivals. It has a sporty aesthetic with arches and a defining exterior that define well its appearance.
Model |
Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV |
Audi SQ5 Premium |
BMW X3 M40i |
Porsche Cayenne |
Maserati Levante |
Jaguar F-Pace S |
Range Rover Velar S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
4149 |
4321 |
4277 |
4,377 |
4,649 |
4,090 |
4,471 |
Length(in) |
183.5 |
183.6 |
186.1 |
193.7 |
197 |
186.3 |
189 |
Width(in) |
74.4 |
74.5 |
74.7 |
86.4 |
85 |
81.5 |
85.4 |
Height(in) |
64.1 |
65.3 |
66.0 |
66.8 |
66.1 |
65 |
65.5 |
Ground clearance (in) |
6.7 |
8.2 |
8.0 |
8.2 |
TBD |
8.4 |
8.3 |
Wheelbase (in) |
113.1 |
111.2 |
112.8 |
114 |
118.3 |
113.1 |
113.1 |
Track width (in) F/R |
64.5/65.2 |
63.9/63.6 |
63.0/63.6 |
66.2/65.9 |
63.9/66 |
64.6/65.1 |
64.6/65.2 |
All of the SUVs are of the same size as the AMG GLC 43 the only difference maker here is its low 6.7 inches of ground clearance. About the weight, according to the modern-day market, the AMG GLC 43s 4145-pound weight is perfect for the class.
The GLC 43 comes with some of the following exterior features -
The 2020 AMG GLC 43 comes standard with active safety features like emergency braking, forward collision alert, driver drowsiness monitor and more. The SUV scored a nice all-star rating from the NHTSA, it was also named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.
The BMW X3 is priced a little lower than the AMG GLC 43, the lack of standard features and weaker power justifies the gap. Where the X3 is the nice everyday drive SUV the AMG GLC 43 is a luxury creature. The X7 is one up on fuel efficiency but the Mercs extra horsepower covers it up.
Overall the Mercedes Benz AMG GLC43 turns up the true winner as a complete performance SUV.
AUDI SQ5 Premium Plus Vs Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43
Equipped with just enough features the X7 is an ideal SUV on the market. While it accomplished the SUVS practicality somehow it missed out on the performance part. The GLC 43, on the other hand, is a true performer, its better at acceleration, power, and weighs less. To an extent, the GLC 43 feel like a more aggressive car to drive as well.
So, if you are shopping for an everyday driver then go for the SQ5 and if performance is what you aim to go for the AMG GLC 43.
Jaguar F-Pace S Vs Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43
The Jaguar devotees will enjoy this new niche SUV, it's fast, capacious, and comfortable everything a performance luxury SUV stands for. On the contrary, AMG GLC 43 is a quicker car that delivers more value. The F- Pace is more inclined towards comfort while the GLC 43 is a more luxurious SUV.
Considering the price slab, the AMG GLC 43 is an ideal choice for the class.
Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 is the more athletic car in the class, right from its blistering acceleration to the magnetic interior the car knocks the ball out of the park in every aspect. Luxury shoppers looking for an SUV will not think again, it can be both the type of car you get your groceries in and the one which you could drag race with.
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