Red Rocket
The AMG GLC 43 4Matic Coupe is a bit of a mouthful to say and somewhat long-winded, but it is far from long-winded in showing you what it’s capable of. For 2024, the GLC 43 is only available in the Coupe version in Canada, at least for now. Our counterparts down south can get the GLC 43 in an SUV variant, but we should see the 2025 models coming north of the border soon.
The GLC is Mercedes’ ever-popular compact SUV variant, and in AMG trim, the magicians at Affalterbach, Germany, have squeezed in a turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces no less than 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. That equates to 208 horsepower per liter—numbers that at one time were reserved for revered V8 engines. This epic, god-like internal combustion engine allows the GLC 43 to reach 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and continue on to a limited top speed of 265 km/h.
What you see here is an example of the GLC 43 Coupe in Patagonia Red Metallic, shod with 21-inch AMG Y-Spoke matte black wheels. It exudes a rich, masculine, almost Italian-like presence. As you approach the GLC 43 Coupe, you’ll notice the pronounced front and rear haunches, giving it an aggressive, wide, bulldog-like stance. The front grille is large and bold, with classic AMG vertical slats. The AMG Y-Spoke wheels provide a unique look that won’t be found on the competition and fill the large wheel wells of the GLC perfectly. A quick push of the starter button brings the hand-built heart of the GLC 43 to life with a bark. While it lacks the unique finesse of a six-cylinder, it has a satisfying raspiness to its note.
Once you begin driving, the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed automatic transmission makes quick work of the shifts, which can be manually actuated via paddle shifters. Each pull of the paddle is accompanied by overrun pops from the exhaust, letting those around you know something special is approaching—and it’s definitely not the run-of-the-mill GLC 300. Downshifts bring a cacophony of pops and bangs—not too harsh, but just the right balance between fun and annoying. To ensure this symphony continues as you carve through backroads or nearby canyons, the GLC 43 comes equipped with a four-wheel independent adaptive suspension and active rear-wheel steering, providing a usable balance between daily driving comfort (especially on the Lower Mainland’s roads) and aggressive sport handling.
Inside, the GLC 43’s cabin feels classically Mercedes. The updated infotainment screen, all 12 inches (11.9, to be exact), sits at the center, paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Mercedes arguably has the best interiors among the European trio, thanks to its combination of modern design and art-deco-inspired air vents. The AMG model swaps out the wood trim for glossy carbon fiber, and the sport front seats offer a snug, hugging feel with bolstering to better hold you during aggressive cornering. The GLC-Class can be heavily optioned with a host of luxurious features, including a panoramic sunroof, illuminated door sill plates, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.
The updated MBUX infotainment interface can recognize voice commands and offers a stable, wireless connection for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. MBUX, since its inception, has been complex and feature-rich, but it offers high levels of customization not often seen. The optional heads-up display is a must in our already distracted world, and the Burmester premium stereo system fills the cabin of the GLC with rich, solid sound. One item of note in most Mercedes interiors (the GLC included) is that they are void of physical buttons for HVAC and audio controls. Previous versions featured dials accessible in the center console, but these have now given way to haptic feedback touch controls and the primary touchscreen—annoying but still usable.
The GLC 43 is a real alternative for those considering entering the AMG family while still enjoying the practicality of a CUV/SUV. It provides a balance between performance and daily use, but without the potential pitfalls of the more aggressive GLC 63. Those considering the GLC 43 could also look at the GLB (also from Mercedes), the Porsche Macan GTS, or the BMW X3 M. With an as-tested price tag of just over $102,000 CAD, the GLC 43 will certainly lighten your pocketbook. However, in exchange, you get one of the most technically advanced vehicles on the road, delivering a truly satisfying driving experience.
