So, the GLC 43 Coupe is the best-selling AMG in India. Who’d have thought? You’d expect the hardcore models like the hot A45 S or the SL 55 to be the poster boy for AMG madness in this country, or maybe even the bonkers GT 63 S E Performance. But no, it’s this jacked-up, coupe-ified GLC that’s raking in the rupees. Fair play to it. It’s practical, it’s got performance, and it’s got that AMG badge. But now it gets a four-cylinder! Cue the gasps.
Conclusion
The GLC 43 Coupe is a bit of an enigma. It’s fast, it’s comfortable, and it’s practical. But it’s also big, heavy, and not exactly exciting to drive. It’s a jack of all trades, but a master of none. If you want a proper AMG, get something smaller and lighter. If you want a comfortable cruiser with a bit of pep, the GLC 43 Coupe will do just fine. But don’t expect it to blow your mind. GT on stilts afterall!
Right, let’s talk about the engine. It’s a four-pot with an electric turbocharger. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi flick, doesn’t it? And it actually works pretty well. There’s no turbo lag, and it revs like a proper petrol engine should. Don’t get me wrong, it’s no V6, but it’s got a decent bark to it, especially when you stir it up a bit. While it lacks the sonorous V6 soundtrack of its predecessor, the four-cylinder's vocal cords have been given a workout. With the AMG-tuned exhaust working overtime in Sport and Sport+ modes, it cracks and pops like a hot hatch, momentarily masking its four-cylinder origins.
Handling-wise, the GLC 43 Coupe is a solid, planted cruiser rather than a sharp-edged sports car. Its weight is evident, but the chassis is composed and the rear-axle steering is a boon in tight spaces. The suspension strikes a decent balance between comfort and control, soaking up imperfections while maintaining body control. Grippy all-wheel drive and ample traction from the 4Matic all wheel drive (69 percent rear biased) system ensures confidence-inspiring performance, reinforcing its grand tourer character.
The centerpiece of the interior is the massive 11.9-inch potriat infotainment touchscreen, a carryover from other models. I am not complaining because its bright and user-friendly display controls with all the key functions via touch, voice, or steering wheel buttons. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and runs on the Mercedes MBUX software that receives over-the-air updates. Favourite bit? The AMG Track Pace app which shows you different tracks around the world along with telemtry and even drag race launches. It also gets traffic light view besides the transparent bonet function. Taking it off-roading are we?
The driver gets a crisp 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster along with a familiar head-up display. With AMG comes the AMG-specific dials on the steering wheel for quick access to the performance aspects including the drive modes and suspension settings. The entire system is intuitive and arguably the best in its class.
High-quality microfiber seats with red seatbelts subtly hint at the AMG performance along with carbon fibre like trim. While rear seat space is decent with a comprimise, the focus is clearly on the driver's experience, which is enhanced by the grippy carbon fibre and micro fibre steering wheel.
The new GLC Coupe sticks to the familiar silhouette but amps up the aggression with AMG-specific touches. Beefier arches and a wider stance give it a more muscular look, while a reworked front fascia with larger air intakes adds a predatory edge. The side profile is distinguished by unique aerodynamic panels, and the new, pixel-packed headlamps flow into the grille. At the rear, two-piece taillights broaden the stance, and the 43 variant boasts a diffuser-style lower bumper with quad exhaust tips for a sportier appearance.
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder elecric exhaust gas turbocharger with a 48V mild-hybrid
Power: 421hp
Torque: 500Nm
Transmission: 9-speed multi clutch gearbox
Tyres: F-265/40 R21 | R-295/35 R21
Bootspace: 546 litres
9 airbags with active brake assist
Price: Expected Rs 1.15 crore (ex-showroom)
