Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Mercedes-AMG GLC43

Time to give AMG credit because with thanks to the SLC43, almost any other Mercedes models in its range is joining the AMG bandwagon and whereas V8-powered 63 models and V12-powered 65 models are the stalwarts of the range while the "45" babies such as the A45, GLA45, and the CLA45 keep on rolling like grumpy babies scratching their diapers, the AMG 43 range continues to grow, perpetually making performance as its new norm, until the day comes where it can be one complete happy family.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43
2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43

One fine example is the brand new Mercedes-AMG GLC43, which is based on the brand new GLC-Class crossover, which replaced your auntie's favorite crossover, the GLK-Class, Because this semi-high performance crossover is made for those who believed that having an Audi SQ5 is becoming worrisome due to the ongoing problems with diesels right now, this is a much more enjoyable alternative despite being a crossover made for the weekend getaway.

As an AMG bearing the "43" moniker, the GLC43 comes armed with a 3.0L V6 twin turbo engine producing 367PS of power and 520Nm of torque while mated to a 9G-TRONIC gearbox. Although top speed is normally limited to 250kph, it can get out to 100kph in 4.9 seconds, which sounds very quick compared to the SQ5 despite its torque difference where the SQ5 sets the GLC43 apart.

While not in the mood to compare this to the SQ5, the GLC43 is an excellent all-rounder that balances what it works and what it plays to the beat of its tune. From its clever damping adjustment, clever suspension, and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the GLC43 is capable to make everyday feel like its weekends somewhere, despite the elements. It maybe a family car but best to warn the families that this is an AMG crossover and it's going to be very addictive for a crossover of such magnitude. It can be a decent daily driver on a normal basis but when the weekends kicked in, this is where the GLC43 unleashes its wild side as a semi-high performance midsize crossover that loves to make the embattled Audi SQ5 licked its rear bumper as a sign of bittersweet surrender.

The GLC43 is priced at 61,761 Euros, which is two grand more than the SQ5 competition model from Audi, which is less expensive but sounds like a bargain for a semi-high performance crossover that balances work and play at the same pace. So, even in its near sleeper styling and its turbocharged V6 power for a crossover, it's no surprise that the GLC43 from Mercedes-AMG could turn this segment from step zero to one and this could be a clear winner from the very start.

Photo: Daimler AG

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