2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC is Back with More Power
As you probably know, the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is refreshed and improved for 2020, including both the SUV and Coupe variants. We flew to Germany a couple of weeks ago to put the vehicles to the test and were enamoured of them, particularly the irresistible GLC 63 S 4MATIC+.
If you’re looking for a more reasonable performance option that slots between this 503-horsepower beast and the entry-level 255-horsepower model, you’ll be pleased to know that the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC is back with a series of updates highlighted by a more muscular engine.
- Also: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC: Refreshed and Rejuvenated
- Also: 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Presented at the New York Auto Show
Specifically, the upgraded twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 delivers 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque—an increase of 23 horsepower over the previous model. It is mated to a recalibrated nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission that is said to offer considerably faster gearshifts.
The 2020 GLC 43 4MATIC is able to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just under five seconds—4.9 to be exact. For the record, it’s not any quicker than the 2019 version despite the boost in output.
A rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system ensures the vehicle benefits from optimum traction at all times. Meanwhile, the five drive modes (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual) are now linked to the AMG DYNAMICS agility control system and allow for handling characteristics to be set with even more differentiation.
As far as styling goes, there is no doubt the GLC 43 4MATIC is a member of the Mercedes-AMG family. The AMG-specific front grille with vertical chrome-plated fins, the accentuated side-sill panels and the rear diffuser with rounded twin tailpipes are dead giveaways. The standard 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels can be replaced with a selection of three optional rim designs up to 21 inches in size.
Other design highlights include a broad front apron featuring matte black air intakes, restyled LED headlights and taillights as well as an under-guard in chrome or matte black.
Inside, there’s the new MBUX infotainment system, of course, along with a next-generation AMG steering wheel. Available in nappa leather, the latter features a rim with a flattened lower section, perforated leather in the grip area, red contrast topstitching and galvanized paddle shifters. New built-in Touch Control buttons can be used to intuitively select the displays of the instrument cluster and the multimedia system by means of horizontal and vertical swiping.
The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC SUV and Coupe will join the Canadian lineup by the end of this year. Pricing should be similar to the 2019 model, which starts at $62,500.