Refreshed Mercedes-AMG GLC43 has More Power
Mercedes-Benz's V6-powered AMG GLE43 SUV gains a few subtle upgrades for the 2020 model year - and they all combine to render an even more convincing vehicle.
Spot the changes
Somewhat familiar, but also different: meet the 2020 model year GLC 43. Mercedes-AMG has upgraded its mid-size performance SUV-line with subtle design alterations. That same Panamericana grille remains in place, but it is now flanked by a revised headlamps design.
Rear styling tidied-up
Changes applied to the GLC43's rear include a new taillamp design, with those lights now featuring a different LED illumination signature. The lower bumper has also been remolded and is underscored by a chrome garnish strip. Taken as a whole, the entire design is notably cleaner.
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As with any AMG: intricate aero abounds
Horizontal fins sit in the bumper's valances and are backed by a redesigned plastic mesh. These fins have especially been trimmed in a matte silver finish to blend with the bumper's lower metallic strip.
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Taillights shine a new shape
If we apply the same scrutiny to GLC43's rear, the redesigned LED taillight profile is immediately noticeable. A U-shape turned on its side, houses a smaller rectangle, which features four vertical light diodes. Too intricate? No. Style has no price.
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Thinner spokes are the alloy wheel look for 2020
Viewed in profile the GLC43's side-sills are most noticeable, elongating the car's shape, thereby adding some elegance to its proportions. A new wheel option is the 21-inch multispoke alloy shown in the image above.
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An inspiring engine note resonates through these
Around the back, there is a dual grouping of twin exhaust ends, finished in high-gloss metal. Those exhaust ends resonate a V6 engine note and feature adjustable flaps, which mean they are civilized when required, and scream appropriately when you want them to.
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More power than last year's car
The most significant upgrade is found under the hood, with Mercedes-AMG engineers managing to liberate more power from the 3-liter biturbo V6 engine. Peak ponies surge to 385hp, supported by 384 lb-ft of torque. The increase in power might be a modest 23hp, but every little surge in urge makes a difference.
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Mid-size SUV rocket ship
The 2020 GLC43's cleaner look and crisper engine output relate to slightly livelier performance. The nine-speed automatic transmission spreads power between all four wheels, with a distant rear-axle bias. This updated GLC43 will run the benchmark 0-60mph sprint in 4.7 seconds and power to a top speed of 155mph.
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It remains one of the sweetest handling performance SUVs
Balancing the GLC43's performance is an advanced air-suspension system and sophisticated all-wheel drive. AMG has tuned the 4Matic system to split torque in 31/69 ratio between the front and rear axles. At each wheel corner, there are adaptive dampers to control rebound and air-bellows which balance the body during sharp changes of direction, preventing pitch, dive, or roll.
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Keen drivers will love the GLC43's new helm
Mercedes would never do a product update without detailing some interior changes. The steering wheel features a flat-bottom, perforated Nappa leather trim, and galvanized paddle-shifters. Beyond the ergonomically improved steering wheel, there is a better infotainment offering too. This comprises the driver's field of view gaining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen sitting atop the center console.
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