Mercedes-AMG is breaking into the midsize crossover segment for the first time with a hot-rodded version of the GLC.
Called GLC43, the soft-roader is powered by the company’s ubiquitous twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. In this application it makes 362 horsepower from 5,500 to 6,000 rpm and 384 lb-ft. of torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm, and it spins all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased version of Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The GLC43 hits 60 mph from a dead stop in 4.8 seconds.
AMG has made the GLC more dynamic to drive by adding a speed-sensitive power steering system, an adaptive air suspension, and bigger brakes behind all four wheels. AMG’s Dynamic Select technology lets the driver choose from five driving modes called Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual, respectively.
Fitted with 20-inch alloys, the GLC43 stands out from the regular GLC thanks to a new bumper with bigger air dams, a specific grille that boasts chromed pins instead of slats, side skirts, and a trunk-mounted spoiler. The cabin is upgraded with sport seats and a speedometer that goes up to 180 mph.
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 will make its public debut next week at the New York Auto Show, and it will go on sale across the nation before the end of the year. When it lands, look for the crossover to carry a base price of approximately $50,000.
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