Overview
Following closely on the heels of the new-for-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 SUV is the performance variant from AMG division, which takes the form of the 2024 GLC43. The last generation GLC43 was discontinued after the 2022 model year and was powered by a 385-hp twin-turbo V-6 but the 2024 model returns with a 416-hp turbocharged four-cylinder that’s augmented by a 48-volt hybrid system. Sportier-looking exterior features and a decked-out cabin finish the transformation from family hauler to something that just plain hauls. AMG will have to imbue the GLC43 with sharp handling, strong braking, and rapid straight-line speed for the GLC43 to compete with our favorite performance crossovers, as its key rivals include the sublime Porsche Macan GTS, the muscly Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, and the brutally-quick BMW X3 M. But then again, if it can’t keep up the GLC63 that will launch a year later will surely be able to.
What’s New for 2024?
The high-performance AMG GLC-class is back for 2024 starting with the GLC43. It sports a 416-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a 48-volt hybrid system. An even more powerful GLC63 S E Performance model will launch for 2025 and goes nuclear with a 671-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Only the GLC43 will be sold for the 2024 model year, and early adopters can look forward to punchy acceleration complemented by a luxurious cabin. For maximum acceleration, consider waiting until next year to snag a GLC63 S E Performance model.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
With a 416-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder under the hood, the GLC43 should provide a noticeable kick in the pants over the standard Benz-branded GLC300, which makes just 255 ponies. In our testing, the GLC300 hit 60 mph in a brisk 5.6 seconds, so imagine how quick it’ll be with 162 more horsepower. The 43’s engine uses a 48-volt hybrid system and comes standard with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. An adaptive suspension system is standard, too, but we haven’t had a chance to evaluate the new GLC43’s handling yet. When we do, we’ll update this story with driving impressions.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released the GLC43’s fuel economy yet, but we’re expecting it to fall a bit under the GLC300’s numbers, which sit at 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we’ll take the GLC43 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route and publish its results here. For more information about the GLC-class’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
If you’ve been inside the Benz-branded GLC, you’ll find the AMG version quite familiar. It wears the same modern design, including art-deco-inspired air vents but it swaps the normal version’s pinstriped wood dashboard trim for a large swath of glossy carbon fiber. A set of optional sport front seats offer more bolstering than the GLC300’s, the better for holding you in place during aggressive cornering. Like other Mercedes models, the GLC-class can be heavily optioned with a host of luxurious features, including a panoramic sunroof, illuminated door sill plates, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All models come with a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment interface can recognize voice commands and features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other notable optional features include a head-up display and a Burmester premium stereo system. There are no physical buttons for the HVAC system nor a knob for the audio volume; the systems are controlled through the touch screen, which in our view is a step backward in user-friendliness.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The GLC-class offers a host of optional driver-assistance features, but only basics such as automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring are standard. For more information about the GLC-class’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard blind-spot monitoring
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes offers warranty protection that’s on par with the coverage offered by rivals such as BMW and Audi. However, Jaguar provides longer coverage.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance