2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 new car reviews

Regular Mercedes-Benz GLC not enough? Fortunately for you, an AMG-ized version is also available. The AMG GLC 43 increases horsepower from 255 to 385. And if that’s not sufficient, the AMG GLC 63 offers 469 horsepower. 

Our test vehicle was just the AMG GLC 43--come on, let’s not be pigs--and in addition to the horsepower boost, it also sports a nine-speed automatic transmission, 20-inch wheels, and the usual AMG suite of comfort, convenience and performance upgrades. 

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David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens
Editorial Director

Perhaps, all those years ago, Ferris Bueller was totally correct: “If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.”

The attraction here? It’s comfortable, quick and built like a tank. It’s everything Mercedes-Benz is known for–and then lump in the AMG superlatives.

The nine-speed auto will make you forget about that clutch pedal. Power is typical AMG smooth. The handling is more sports sedan than sports utility.

Seats are comfortable and supportive. And all of the controls have a satisfying clunk to them. The column shifter might seem weird at first, but it’s standard issue for a Benz. You get used to it. The exhaust sounds pleasant.

Do you need an even fast version of an already-capable SUV that’s not huge but not tiny? Maybe? Maybe not? But if you can afford it and want it, this ticks all of the boxes.

And if you wish that it was even speedier, the AMG GLC 63 is always available.

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Comments
David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens Editorial Director
4/22/20 12:16 p.m.

And I know that this isn't a Miata, but if you or yours has the means and wants something quick and comfortable, this one is worth a look. (Personally, though, I'd be all over that AMG E63 S wagon.)

z31maniac
z31maniac MegaDork
4/22/20 1:01 p.m.
David S. Wallens said:

And I know that this isn't a Miata, but if you or yours has the means and wants something quick and comfortable, this one is worth a look. (Personally, though, I'd be all over that AMG E63 S wagon.)

I would love to be able to put the better half in something like this. 

 

Sonic
Sonic UltraDork
4/22/20 1:04 p.m.

We just picked up an e400 wagon which is mechanically very similar (less boost on the same motor) but in a actual wagon body and it is a shockingly good car in every way.   There is nothing about it that we don't like. 

David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens Editorial Director
4/22/20 4:26 p.m.

In reply to Sonic :

Same findings here. It does everything so well. 

Brake_L8 (Forum Supporter)
Brake_L8 (Forum Supporter) Reader
4/22/20 5:36 p.m.

I drove a GLC300 a year or so back and really liked it for what it was. M-B just dropped off an E53 AMG coupe for review today and I really really really like it so far.

David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens Editorial Director
4/22/20 5:54 p.m.

Anything AMG is going to be perfect. (Fight me. smiley)

David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens Editorial Director
4/22/20 6:33 p.m.

Also, happy to see some wagons still available. My parents were bummed when BMW dropped the wagon from the lineup as they have zero interest in an SUV. 

Brake_L8 (Forum Supporter)
Brake_L8 (Forum Supporter) Reader
4/23/20 7:34 a.m.
David S. Wallens said:

Also, happy to see some wagons still available. My parents were bummed when BMW dropped the wagon from the lineup as they have zero interest in an SUV. 

I would take an E63 wagon in designo red in a heartbeat. Not like I've built one online seven times or anything.

It's interesting with AMG cars, I know the history of 'em back to the pre-Mercedes-ownership days and even though many/most get suspension upgrades, they seem to be focused mostly on straight-line speed surrounded by a bunch of luxury goodies. They'll corner but that's like the tertiary focus.

It's honestly not bad looking at all. In fact, I dare say it's handsome. 

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