As a writer it can be a bit of pain when Mercedes announce a new car. Why? Well the German brand does rather like a long press release that’s about as long as War and Peace, so getting to the good stuff can be difficult, even when it’s an AMG model.
The juicy bits
Right, I’ve filtered through the vast press release from ze Germans and these are the headlines – the new AMG GLC43 will be powered by a 3.0 litre bi-turbo V6 engine which produces 376bhp and 520Nm of torque. Pour petrol engine and get noise out – and plenty of speed. Despite its size the GLC43 will get to 62mph in 4.9 seconds and will get on to a limited top speed of 155mph.
Predictably the engine is mounted to Merc’s 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox that has been fettled by AMG developers to reduce the shift times thanks to dedicated software. To help the big GLC nimble in the corners Mercedes has employed its AIR BODY CONTROL which uses a full-support multi-air chamber air suspension system.
Moda selecta
As with other AMG models there are three driving modes to choose what kind of ride and performance you’d like – normal, sport and sport plus. Mercedes states that thanks to the AIR BODY CONTROL the GLC can “occasional excursions on unpaved terrain” – I do love the wording used. makes it sound so fancy.
To offer even more choice (or too much) AMG DYNAMIC SELECT gives the driver five transmission modes – eco, comfort, sport, sport plus and individual. Eco mode will enable the stop/start function of the GLC whilst sport plus is the polar opposite, it will burn petrol to produce a biblical racket out the other end.
Steering dictated by speed
The steering is speed-sensitive and offers authentic feedback according to the German brand and as with the other driving aspects there are modes available. Comfort will be used for normal driving whereas sport will be used for a more ‘vigourous’ drive.
What else does it come with?
19″ alloy wheels will adorn each corner of the GLC and chrome can be found on the outside too. Technology includes Audio 20 CD with 7″ display, Frontbass, Bluetooth, audio streaming and two USB ports. Believe it or not but sat nav is optional despite it’s predictable high price that has not been announced yet. Safety features include Active Brake Assist, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist and Attention Assist.
The new model will premiere on September the 26th at the Paris Motor Show.
