Mercedes-AMG has increased the output of the GLC43 4Matic SUV and GLC43 4Matic Coupe as part of a mid-life facelift for the two models.
Originally launched in 2016, the BMW X3 M40i and BMW X4 M40i rivals receive an updated version of Mercedes’ twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine among a long list of changes.
With revised software, the 60-degree unit now develops an added 23bhp, taking the overall output of both cars up to 396bhp at 5500rpm. Torque, meanwhile, remains the same as before at 369lb ft between 2500 and 4500rpm.
Drive continues to be sent through a nine-speed torque converter automatic gearbox with AMG’s so-called TCT (Torque Clutch Transmission) software package. It is allied to a standard four-wheel drive system featuring a 31:69 front-to-rear apportioning of drive.
The driver can choose between five different drive modes: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual via an AMG Dynamics agility control system. As well as offering different parameters for the throttle and gearbox, it also alters the steering and damping qualities of the standard AMG Ride Control suspension.
Despite the increase in reserves, Mercedes-AMG quotes the same 0-62mph time for the new models as their predecessors at 4.9sec. As before, top speed also continues to be limited to 155mph, while combined cycle fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are put at 27.7mpg and 232g/km on the NEDC cycle.
By comparison, the X3 M40i and X4 M40i’s turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine kicks out 355bhp and 343lb ft, providing them with a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.9sec and limited 155mph top speed together with combined consumption and CO2 emissions of 32.8mpg and 199g/km.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Anyone caught driving the
Anyone caught driving the Coupe should be arrested for causing a visual offence. Or awarded a medal for bravery. Or awarded a prize for comedy. Or, most appropriately, locked up for insanity.
Pretty sure it does have a touchscreen now...
I think that part of the article is incorrect. I prepare to be stood corrected... but I'm pretty sure it does have a touchscreen.
A thought for others on the road
Energy = mass x speed squared, so the two tonnes of GLC of will release almost twice the energy of say a Ford Fiesta on impact - and there will be impacts, very possibly with a Fiesta of half this vehicle's weight. Why then a 0-60 4.9 secs and performance car pretentions?
Choose a sports car by all means, or if you really must, an SUV. But for the sake of others choose one or the other.