autoX Awards 2024: The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe was the first model in the line-up to be produced domestically when it was introduced in 2017. The second-generation GLC 43 SUV-Coupe, based on the C43 sedan, has undergone significant changes. The most notable change is the shift from a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine to a more compact 2.0-litre four-cylinder with an electronic turbocharger. In addition, the exterior design has been refreshed, and the interior layout has been revamped. So, as an AMG SUV, does it have what it takes to impress the jury?
Before delving into the driving experience, let’s look at the numbers. Like the C43 sedan, the new GLC 43 Coupe is powered by a 2.0-litre engine, which produces 420bhp and 500Nm of torque, which is further boosted by 14bhp and 150Nm from a 48V mild-hybrid electric motor that kicks in under load. A significant amount of turbo lag under acceleration has been addressed with the GLC 43 Coupe’s electric turbocharger. It also effectively hides the fact that this is a fairly heavy vehicle.
Also Read: 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe First Drive Review: Is This The Best AMG SUV For India?
The electric turbo ensures that the engine stays in the power band during gear shifts and roll-on acceleration, resulting in a nearly addictive power surge from the moment you press the throttle until you hit 7,000rpm. While turbo lag is virtually non-existent in the more proper driving modes where the motor keeps the turbo spooled up, it can be felt under acceleration in Comfort mode.
Although the GLC 43 Coupe may be more challenging to handle due to its weight and power, it offers a distinct kind of enjoyment. When you push it hard, the GLC 43 Coupe exhibits much more drama than the C43 AMG. With a noticeable body roll, it clearly lets you know when you’re going fast and behaves enthusiastically when changing direction quickly. All of this comes without being too low to the ground, offering a unique experience of fast SUV driving. Add in the benefit of four-wheel steering and torque vectoring to the mix, what you get is an SUV that is just about 3 seconds slower than a Ferrari around the Buddh International Circuit!
- Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 (Lap Time: 1.06.23)
| PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| QUALITY | 5 | 4.5 |
| COMFORT / SPACE | 5 | 3 |
| REFINEMENT | 5 | 4.5 |
| DESIGN | 5 | 3 |
| DRIVETRAIN | 5 | 4.5 |
| RIDE & HANDLING | 5 | 4 |
| PRACTICALITY | 5 | 3 |
| X FACTOR | 20 | 13 |
| LAP TIME | 15 | 12.6 |
| VALUE FOR MONEY | 30 | 10 |
| TOTAL | 100 | 62.1 |
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