By: IOL Motoring Staff
Affalterbach, Germany - the 'AMG Lite' tribe, which you can identify by the '43' badge, is expanding fast and its latest member comes from the GLC SUV family.
Just like the recently announced E43 and SLC43 and C43 AMG models, the GLC43 AMG is powered by a twin-turbo 3-litre V6 engine, mated to a nine-speed autobox and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
Yet whereas the E43 has a 295kW version of the new six, the GLC's version is instead tuned to 270kW, as per the SLC43, although all of the abovementioned boast 520 newtons of twist.
The GLC43 is still a rather serious performer within the SUV realm, with its maker claiming a 4.9 second 0-100km/h sprint. The 9G Tronic gearbox has been specially tuned by AMG and features a 'Sport Plus' mode for increased response as well as a double-declutching function for the downshifts.
While the power goes to all four wheels, the 4Matic system has been set-up with a rear biased torque distribution (69 percent) in keeping with the vehicle's sporty positioning, but AMG is also aiming to balance fun with comfort here and so the GLC43 comes with an AMG-modified air suspension with three-mode adaptive damping. They've fitted it with bigger brakes too, with internally ventilated discs measuring 360mm up front and 320mm at the back.
To prevent any identity crises, the GLC43 is set apart by gloss-black 19-inch alloys, AMG-style front and rear aprons, a diamond grille with chrome pins and unique tailpipes.
Inside you'll be welcomed by AMG's 'chequered flag' instrument cluster, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with red stitching, and black sports seats with red top stitching.