2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic revealed

The Mercedes-Benz GLC range has a new flagship iteration - the 362bhp AMG-developed GLC43 4Matic performance model.

The powered-up SUV has made its public debut alongside the recently announced E43 4Matic, new GLC Coupe and facelifted CLA saloon at the New York motor show.

The latest in an extended range of V6-powered AMG models to be unveiled in recent weeks, the GLC43 will go on UK sale in June starting at a price around £48,000.

Power for the GLC43 4Matic comes from the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine recently revealed in the SLC43, C43 Coupe 4Matic and C43 Convertible 4Matic. The AMG-engineered unit delivers 362bhp at 5500rpm to provide the new Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 xDrive35i rival with a power-to-weight ratio of 205bhp per tonne.

In addition, the 60-degree powerplant also provides 382lb ft of torque between 2500 and 4500rpm.

Five different driving modes

The sturdy reserves are channelled through a standard 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox offering five different driving modes in combination with AMG’s Dynamic Select system, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual.

In a departure from the automatic gearbox used in less powerful GLC models, it also boasts a double declutching function and remains in the selected gear without changing up at maximum revs in sport plus mode.

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The GLC43’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system has been tuned to deliver a distinctly rear-biased distribution of drive, with 31 per cent delivered to the front axle and the remaining 69 per cent sent to the rear.

AMG claims its latest model hits 62mph from standstill in 4.9sec. This is 2.4sec faster than the current performance leader of the GLC line-up, the 201bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol powered GLC250. Top speed is limited to 155mph.

Early information released by Mercedes-Benz also quotes combined cycle consumption of 34.0mpg, providing the GLC43 4Matic with average CO2 emissions of 189g/km.

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Underpinning Mercedes-Benz’s new performance SUV is a revised version of the standard GLC’s optional air body control suspension, featuring air springs and adaptive damping across three modes: comfort, sport and sport plus. It also receives 19-inch wheels shod with a combination of 235/55 profile front and 255/50 profile rear tyres as standard.

As with the SLC43, C43 Coupe 4Matic, C43 Convertible 4Matic as well as the more powerful E43 4Matic, the GLC43 4Matic also receives a reworked chassis boasting new steering knuckles and load bearing joints up front as well as unique spring, damper and bushing tuning.