If I've said it once, I've said it 1,000 times. Mercedes-Benz is on a tear. And, from what I can see there's absolutely no end in sight.
Hell, even the GLE-Class Coupe is getting spotted all over the New York Tri-State region as well as SoCal.
2016 New York Auto Show Preview
In recent weeks the company has unveiled an all-new strategy. Rather than sell AMG Sport vehicles, it turns out there's been a pivot: Now the company has introduced several sexy models called Mercedes-AMG _43. The underscore is for the insertion of C, E and now GLC.
That's right, the AMG GLC43 is here, folks. The Audi SQ5 can now move over and make room for the all-new sheriff in town.
Like the other 43s, it is equipped with a bi-turbo V6 good for over 360 horsepower, 384 lb.-ft. of torque and it mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Yes, 4MATIC is standard and features a rear-wheel bias.
The GLC43 is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms by the end of the year.
Stay tuned to AutoSpies.com for the latest, breaking news about the New York Auto Show.
The 2016 New York Auto Show photo galleries are sponsored by Lexus.
2016 New York Auto Show Preview
Mercedes-Benz's press release follows:
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC43: INFORMATION ADAPTED FOR THE U.S. MARKET
First mid-size SUV from AMG in Affalterbach
March 16, 2016 - Affalterbach.
The mid-size SUV model series gains a particularly dynamic addition in the form of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC43. The 362 hp 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shortened shift times and AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive configured with a rear bias form the basis for an especially dynamic on-road driving experience. The autonomous design and the specially tuned sport suspension on the basis of AIR BODY CONTROL with adaptive damping adjustment underline the affiliation to the Mercedes-AMG world of Driving Performance.
Following the record sales in 2015 Mercedes-AMG remains on a path of growth: the product range will be extended at high speed in 2016. "With the new AMG GLC43 we are offering an AMG model in the mid-size SUV segment for the first time. The new SUV from Affalterbach marks the pinnacle of the GLC product range and in the AMG portfolio it closes the gap between the GLA and GLE," says Tobias Moers, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine is used in numerous AMG performance models and delivers 362 hp plus a maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. The AMG GLC43 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and its speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise AMG speed- sensitive sport steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience.
Key data
| Mercedes-AMG GLC43 |
Engine | V6 Biturbo |
Displacement | 2996 cc |
Output | 362 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
Peak torque | 384 lb-ft @ 2500-4500 rpm |
Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.8 s |
Top speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
The standard highlights
- 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine with modified engine management, increased boost pressure and significantly enhanced dynamics and responsiveness
- 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with double-declutching function during downshifts and particularly short response times in "Sport Plus" mode
- AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution of 31 to 69 percent (front axle to rear axle)
- Specially tuned sport suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL with adaptive damping adjustment and AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch for dynamic, individually selectable driving experience with five drive programs and AMG- specific parameterization
- Three-stage Electronic Stability Program ESP®
- Front axle with newly developed steering knuckles and load-bearing joints on the spring link. Elastokinematic adjustments on the links
- Rear axle with elastokinematics tailored to higher driving dynamics
- Large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs, perforated at the front with a diameter of 14.2" and 12.6" at the rear
- AMG styling with distinctive front and rear bumpers as well as special tailpipes
- Diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and louvers in high-gloss black
- 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design, painted high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish
- AMG instrument cluster with "checkered flag" design with 180 mph scale
- Multifunction sports steering wheel in leather with deep embossing in grip area, flattened bottom section, with red contrasting topstitching
High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine
The AMG 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine is characterized by a powerful output together with low consumption and emissions. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are able to provide power without delay. The high power output of 362 hp is attributable to, among other things, a higher boost pressure of 15 psi. Together with the 384 lb-ft torque from 2000-4200 rpm the engine unleashes high levels dynamism and responsiveness. The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners was also enhanced in the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines. Especially tough and wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction andcontributes to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 2900 psi of fuel pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminum insert on the engine cover.
Short shift times, high efficiency: the 9G-TRONIC
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is especially matched to the demands of the AMG GLC43. Thanks to the model-specific software application, the AMG developers managed to reduce the shift times of the 9-speed transmission. The multiple downshift allows even faster short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Ignition adjustments provide faster gearshifts than in "Eco" and "Comfort" modes. "Manual" mode can be selected using a button in the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.
More agility: the sport suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL
For more agility, improved cornering characteristics and higher traction even in intensive use, developers in Affalterbach have designed a sport suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension. Also specifically adapted, the Adaptive Damping system ADS PLUS can be adjusted in the three stages: "Comfort," "Sport" and "Sport Plus."
The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. The sum of these measures improves agility and boosts overall dynamics.
Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC
The all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC is characterized by the rear-biased torque distribution of 31 percent at the front axle to 69 percent at the rear axle. This configuration ensures more driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road plus improved traction during acceleration.
Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
With the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual, the driver can tailor the characteristics of the AMG GLC43 to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel.
The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Sport" and "Sport Plus" are even more strongly configured for driving dynamics on the AMG GLC43 than on the series- production models. This is thanks to the more agile, direct accelerator characteristic, more emotive gear shifting with shortened shift times and double-declutching function. A higher idle speed facilitates even faster acceleration from standstill.
In order to increase efficiency, in "Eco" mode the ECO start/stop function and the sailing function reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 37 and 99 mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering
The speed-sensitive sport steering has a variable ratio in the AMG GLC43. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. The steering power assistance is variable in the "Comfort" or "Sport" tuning. The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalized in "Individual" mode.
The large-dimensioned braking system with interior-ventilated compound brake discs decelerates the AMG GLC43 reliably and quickly. At the front axle perforated discs sized 14.2" x 1.4" with 4-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering are used, and 12.6" x 0.9"at the rear axle.
Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design
The autonomous design is enhanced with silver chrome colored and high-gloss black features. The diamond radiator grille features chrome-plated pins, a louver in high-gloss black with inserts in high-gloss chrome and AMG lettering. The sportily distinctive air intakes in the AMG front bumper feature fins in silver chrome. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules.
High-gloss black-painted, high-sheen 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels dominate the side view. The mixed-size tires with the dimensions 255/45 R 20 on 8 x 20 at the front axle and 285/40 R 20 on 9.5 x 20 at the rear axle emphasize the sporty appearance. There are also high-gloss black door mirror caps and the silver-colored "BITURBO 4MATIC" lettering on the front fenders.
The tail end also sports characteristic highlights and exudes sporty, aesthetic appeal with two four-pipe chromed tailpipe trims. The AMG-specific rear apron sports trim in silver chrome.
Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design
The interior reinforces the consistently dynamic bias with numerous specially designed details. Ideal for a committed driving style, the multifunction sports steering wheel in black leather features a flattened bottom section and red contrasting topstitching. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sport seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support.
With two large round dials and central color multifunction display with a 5.5" diagonal the AMG instrument cluster places all the important information in the driver's field of vision. The ECO display supports a fuel-saving driving style. Dials in a checkered-flag look and the distinctive typography lend the large displays an especially sporty touch.
Optional features with a sporty emphasis
The sporty character of the AMG GLC43 is also emphasized by a wide range of optionally available equipment ranges from performance seats with increased lateral support, to through leather upholstery, carbon-fiber trim, a Night package and 21-inch wheels in a bi-color design.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLC43 celebrates its world premiere in March 2016 at the New York International Auto Show and will be on sale in US dealerships by the end of 2016.