The SUV coupe segment, a curious blend of practicality and sportiness, is a relatively new phenomenon in the automotive world. Its origins can be traced back to the BMW X6, a groundbreaking yet polarising design penned by Chris Bangle. While the X6 was initially met with criticism and ridicule for its unconventional silhouette, its sales figures told a different story. It was clear that there was a market for this unique vehicle concept, a fact that didn’t escape the attention of other German automakers.
Fast forward to the present, and the SUV coupe has become a staple in the luxury segment. Designers have refined the formula, aiming to balance the dramatic flair of the original with a more harmonious aesthetic. Gorden Wagener heading design for Mercedes-Benz globally and his team at AMG seem to have struck a chord with their latest creation. By blending the core SUV coupe elements with AMG’s signature performance cues, they’ve crafted a vehicle that is both visually striking and undeniably sporty. The subtle aero elements and AMG-specific detailing give the car a purposeful look without resorting to excessive aggression.
Getting an AMG model is always exciting, so a quick chat with the driver from Mercedes who came to drop the cars off is always quite insightful. This time was no different. A simple question to Pramod the merc driver about how his experience with the car was met with a knowing grin and a confident ‘You’ll enjoy it.
Paperwork complete, keys in hand, it was time to indulge in a little automotive theatre. Mercedes has perfected the art of the dramatic startup, and the AMG models are no exception. A quick tug on the upshift paddle followed by a press of the start button unleashed a symphony of pops and bangs from the AMG engine. Also that is the trick to start an AMG in loud wake up your neighbours mode.
With the initial excitement subsided, it was time to focus on the interior, starting with the driver’s seat. The AMG-specific seats are exceptional, offering superb lateral support and ensuring the driver remains firmly planted in place.
Dominating the interior is the steering wheel, a technological marvel adorned with an array of controls that offer unparalleled customisation. From suspension stiffness to powertrain responsiveness, the driver enjoys a vast spectrum of settings to tailor the car’s character. For me, the perfect mode was found in Sports +, which givss you all the AMG’s potent performance.
The most striking element is the colossal central touchscreen, which commands a significant presence on the dashboard. Beyond this, AMG-specific touches are subtle, with discreet badges and performance-oriented controls on the steering wheel serving as reminders of the car’s athletic capabilities.
A standout feature of the AMG package is the stunning IWC digital clock. Its intricate animations are a visual treat. Complementing this are the track timing and lap functions, all neatly housed within the AMG submenu. It’s like wearing Lewis Hamilton’s IWC watch on your wrist but on the dashboard. A truly elegant nod to AMG’s motorsport heritage.
Given the coupe silhouette, rear seat space wasn’t a top expectation. Surprisingly, headroom and legroom were adequate. However, the seats could have offered more under-thigh support, a comfort characteristic one would not anticipate in an AMG.
It was time to unleash the beast. A rainy Saturday in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) provided an unexpected playground. With the roads relatively clear and BKC’s smooth concrete surface, the stage was set. The heads-up display transformed the familiar cityscape into a potential racetrack, igniting the imagination. While racing on public roads is never advisable, the urge to explore the car’s limits was undeniable. The recent rain meant extra caution was necessary, with the traction control light illuminating at the slightest provocation. You can feel the motorsports connection on a regular road, a surreal experience that highlights the AMG’s raw power and performance.
While the initial acceleration isn’t as explosive as an electric vehicle, the AMG’s power delivery is far more engaging. The throaty engine sound and tactile connection to the road create a driving experience that EVs simply can’t match.
Powering the AMG GLC 43 is a formidable 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 421 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. A unique feature is the real-time engine performance display within the AMG menu, offering a fascinating glimpse into the power output as you accelerate.
While Mumbai’s traffic often restricted opportunities to fully exploit the engine’s potential, the car’s character shone through in other ways. The intoxicating acceleration runs and on downshifts you can hear the exhaust growl a constant source of exhilaration was all we needed on this rainy day
The ‘43’ badge might lead some to believe it’s a watered-down AMG, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The GLC 43 delivers a genuine AMG experience, albeit in a more compact package.
Handling is a strong suit. The steering is sharp and precise, offering excellent feedback. While the suspension is firm, as expected of an AMG, it could benefit from a slightly softer setup for our challenging road conditions. Compared to larger AMG models like the GLE 53, the GLC 43 feels more agile and nimble.
The drive modes on offer range from the comfort-oriented to the extreme Race mode, designed specifically for track conditions. While we couldn’t resist exploring the car’s limits in Race mode throughout our drive, it’s important to remember its intended purpose.
Saying goodbye to the GLC 43 was a difficult task. This model occupies a unique position within the AMG lineup. It might not boast the same level of raw power as its larger siblings, but it undeniably captures the essence of the brand. With its spirited engine, engaging handling, and unmistakable AMG character, the GLC 43 delivers a driving experience that is 80 per cent pure AMG. It’s a testament to the brand’s ability to distil its DNA into a more compact package, creating a vehicle that is both thrilling and accessible. As the saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and in the case of the GLC 43, the AMG apple remains remarkably intact.
