Mercedes-AMG has added a new GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé to its line-up.
Combining a sporty design, AMG driving performance and the advantages of an SUV in terms of seating position, the new model is powered by a 367bhp 3.0‑litre V6 biturbo engine. Delivering a maximum output of 270 kW, plus maximum torque of 520 newton metres, two turbochargers help the AMG GLC 43 reach 62mph in 4.9 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
The sprint time is helped by an automatic 9G‑TRONIC transmission with shortened shift times and a double-clutching function, as well as AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, configured with a rear bias for an ‘especially dynamic’ on-road driving experience. This is further aided by independent sports suspension, based on the multi-chamber air suspension system Air Body Control - which also enables occasional off-road excursions to be undertaken - the ground clearance can be increased at the touch of a button, and the pneumatic all-round self-levelling ensures a constant vehicle level at all times.
Five Dynamic Select transmission modes - Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual - can be selected and tailor to individual preferences. The range extends from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel.
In Eco mode the start/stop function and the gliding function reduce fuel consumption. When the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 37mph-100mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain.
Styling wise, the front end of the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé features the diamond radiator grille with chrome pins, high-gloss black with insert in high-gloss chrome and AMG lettering in chrome. The sportily air intakes in the AMG front apron feature fins in silver chrome. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules. At the rear, a chrome-plated tailpipe trim elements give a four-pipe look. The AMG-specific rear apron sports trim in silver chrome while the rear window does away with the wiper, as the airflow does not fall away until after the spoiler lip, which means that water is unable to strike the rear window, according to Mercedes.
The new model runs on high-gloss black 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. As an option, other combinations and designs are available, right up to 21-inch wheels in a bichromatic design.
On the inside, the sporty interior includes functional black with red contrasting and ‘longitudinal-grain’ aluminium. The multifunction sports steering wheel in black leather with red contrasting topstitching features a flattened bottom section, suited to an ‘emphatic driving style’. The front sports seats now have improved lateral support and are finished in Artico, man-made leather/Dinamica microfibre. Two large round dials and central colour multifunction display with a 5.5-inch (13.97 cm) screen places all the important information in the driver's field of vision. The ECO display shows a fuel-saving driving style, while dials in a chequered-flag look and 'distinctive typography' lend the large displays a sporty touch. Those with a passion for motorsports will also notice the ‘Race Timer’ function for recording lap times.
Boot capacity ranges from 491 to 1400 litres, while the split-folding rear seat backrests (which fold 40:20:40) enable a variety of configurations to be used for particularly long or bulky items of luggage. Standard infotainment includes the Audio 20 CD with 7-inch (17.8 cm) display, Frontbass, Bluetooth hands-free function, audio streaming and two USB ports. The optional Garmin Map Pilot with Live Traffic expands Audio 20 CD into a fully-fledged navigation system.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé will debut at the Paris Motor Show on 28 September, with market launch set for December 2016.