2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic revealed, Australian launch confirmed
The new 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic has been unveiled today ahead of a New York motor show debut next week.
Confirmed for an Australian launch in December this year, the new hero in the Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV range is just the latest in a new run of ‘entry level’ AMG models to wear the ‘43’ badge.
Adorning the GLC in place of what would have previously been a ‘450 AMG Sport’ badge, the new 43 branding sees the GLC join recently revealed SLC43, C43 and E43 variants.
All are powered by a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine in varying states of tune. Like the SLC43 and C43, the mid-sized GLC43 SUV gets a 270kW (5500-6000rpm) and 520Nm (2500-4500rpm) application.
By comparison, the big-step-up C63 models - and likely also any eventual GLC63 option - are driven by 350kW/650Nm and 375kW/700Nm versions of AMG’s new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine.
In the GLC43, power is sent to the 4Matic all-wheel drive system through a 9G-Tronic nine-speed auto, and the 4Matic setup boasts a rear-biased torque distribution setup of 31 to 69 per cent (front to rear).
With all of this in play, Mercedes-AMG claims the 1855kg sports SUV will hit 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
The 1533kg C43 coupe only just betters that figure with its 4.7-second sprint, while the 375kW AMG C63 S sold in Australia claims a 4.0-second run to 100km/h.
Fuel consumption for the GLC43 4Matic, under Europe’s NEDC test program, is listed at 8.3L/100km.
The GLC43 is equipped with a sports-tuned version of Mercedes-Benz’s Air Body Control suspension package with adaptive damping that includes Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes. Likewise, the power-steering system features Comfort and Sport options.
On the styling and aero front, the GLC43 gets an AMG body-kit with the familiar diamond-patterned grille, AMG-specific exhaust tips, and 19-inch light-alloy AMG wheels wrapped in 235/55/R19 rubber up front and 255/50/R19 rubber at the back.
Inside, there’s Artico artificial leather and Dinamica microfibre seat trim, an AMG instrument cluster and a multifunction flat-bottomed sports steering wheel with red contrast stitch.
Australia
The Mercedes-AMG GLC43 will join the local Mercedes-Benz GLC range in December this year, with exact timing, pricing, and specifications to be confirmed closer to launch.
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