How does it work as a fast 4×4?
There is no doubt that Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is an astoundingly fast SUV, but that doesn’t mean it has to compromise comfort and practicality when fitted with petrol engines. It may not be the most fuel-saving or cost-effective vehicle, but the 3.0-litre V6 petrol and four-wheel drive engine is a good fit in the GLC.
Due to its polished driving experience, stylish interior and massive power, the Merc has a wide ranging appeal. The GLC is a comfortable and practical family SUV and for this reason Mercedes has decided to offer it in the UK with just diesel engines.
However, there is one exception, the firey GLC 43, which is fitted with the same Mercedes 3.0 litre V6 petrol engine also fitted in the C43 and E43. All of these are developed by Mercedes-AMG. The GLC 43 is easy to recongise, due to the glitzy radiator grille and 19-inch alloy wheels. The GLC 43 is noted a lot on the road.
One of the few reasons that could be is the noise from the 3.0 litre V6 which has a sporty growl that’s sounds awesome from the outside. Mercedes has put its money where the mouth is as GLC’s 362bhp make it one of the fastest SUVs around.
With 0-62mph time of just 4.9 seconds, the engine makes 520Nm of torque when revved between 2,000 and 4,200rpm. The performance is mind blowing from standstill and great in-gear as well. If you are in mood, the V6 will happily blast up to the redline without noticeable fall-off, as the maximum power is reached at 5,500rpm.
The brilliant engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox as it delivers smooth shifts or more aggressive changes. This shuffle is car’s dual character as it can go from sedate cruiser to manic acceleration when the mood takes you.
The GLC 43 is an astounding motorway cruiser, with the clever gearbox and punchy engine meaning it’s easy to overtake when you need to. The cabin is quiet inside with adaptive suspension which no wind noise making it inside.
If you happen to be on a picturesque road, there are Sport and Sport+ modes to choose. There’s a bit of body roll which is expected from a tall car like this, and the steering does feel dead sometimes. When cornering, 1,845kg kerb weight is also apparent, as the GLC 43 doesn’t change direction with composure.
GLC’s handling is where its more compromised. This is a car that’s the best motorway cruiser, but it’s not that much fun to drive quickly as it is slow of the line and takes it time when to launch.
The boot is big with 550-litre with driver’s seat feeling cosy. The changed have been made to increase its performance. It’s just as quite good at being a family car as a standard GLC. If family motoring is your plan for the car, get the GLC 350d.
Most importantly, it’s also cheaper to store and manages 47.9mpg, compared to this GLC 43’s 34mpg.