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Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe Launched Locally

RM 499k nets a 390 hp mid-sized Mercedes performance SUV coupe that is assembled in Malaysia. 

Having recently launched a facelifted version of its GLC Coupe locally, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has now added another sportier model to sit beside the sole GLC300 AMG Line previously, in the form of this new proper AMG-fied GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe. 

Arriving in CKD locally assembled form, unlike the fully-imported predecessor, this new mildly spiced up facelifted GLC AMG costs only a mere RM 70k over the only other variant officially offered locally at RM 499k (with sales tax exemption in place). While RM 500k isn’t exactly cheap for a mid-sized, despite what the three pointed star says otherwise, this Mercedes SUV-coupe does offer quite a lot in terms of both performance and prestige.  

Starting with the exterior styling, the GLC 43 undoubtably adds the usual AMG trinkets. Up front, these include the AMG-specific front grille with vertical chrome strakes that are flanked by Multibeam LED headlights. Down the side meanwhile, the typical 21-inch AMG 5 spoke alloys complement the bespoke AMG side sills. Completing the exterior changes is the standard AMG Night Package which adds gloss black finishes to some of the exterior trim pieces. 

Continuing inside, the AMG additions continue with red highlights throughout the interior that act as a constant reminder of its performance nature, most notably of which is the red topstitching is present on the black ARTICO and dinamica microfibre sports seats. Other nods to its AMG heritage includes the AMG flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in nappa microfibre, not to mention the AMG Dynamics selectable drive programs that features 5 drive modes: “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual”

Saying that, this sporty GLC coupe still maintains much of the SUV’s practical conveniences. The 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster and the 10.25 inch central touchscreen remains largely the same, powered by Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system. Thus bringing along with it the usual touch, gesture and even voice control functionalities. 

That aside, the GLC 43 4MATIC also adds some welcome active driver aids as part of the standard Mercedes-Benz Driving Assistance Package. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and PRE-SAFE® system are now standard, as is a 360º surround view camera. Another add-on to this AMG-fied SUV is the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ adaptive self-levelling multi-chambered air-suspension system, that supposedly ‘ensures both sporty driving dynamics and the comfort on long journeys that is such a hallmark of the brand’. 

However like all AMGs, perhaps the headline grabbing feature will be the engine under the hood of this bulbous SUV coupe. While it may not be the fire breathing V8s on the higher tier AMG 63s, the 3.0 litre mono-turbo V6 engine still outputs a respectable 390 hp and 520 Nm of torque. 

All this power is sent through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via the AMG 4MATIC rear-biased all wheel drive system. Therefore it comes as no surprise then that this SUV can rocket to 100 km/h from a standstill in just a shade under 5 seconds, and onto an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. 

This new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe is currently available with Mercedes’ Agility Financing Plan at a monthly instalment rate that starts from RM4,987. This figure is based on a 5 years tenure and downpayment of approximately 28%. 

PRESS RELEASE: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today announces the availability of a new locally-assembled variant from its luxury performance cars, the new GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé. This pure Driving Performance machine offers undeniable luxury appeal combined with AMG racing pedigree that the performance brand is renowned for.

“The new GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé exemplifies the perfect balance between power and functionality, featuring the AMG-specific radiator grille, making it instantly recognisable as a member of the diverse and highly successful AMG family. This mid-size performance SUV Coupé combines the new expressive design elements with enhanced performance and absolute viability in everyday use. Its exceptional agility and sporty driving dynamics is a testament to our brand promise of “Driving Performance” in this segment,” says Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

Enhanced performance meets efficiency: the AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé benefits from an increase in the output of the
3.0-litre V6 engine of 17 kW (23 hp), taking it to 287 kW (390 hp). The peak torque of 520 Nm is available from 2500 to 5000 rpm. The higher output can also be attributed to applicative adjustments made to the software. The larger, stand-alone turbocharger units are mounted close to the engine and respond particularly swiftly, thereby guaranteeing exceptional performance: it takes a mere 4.9 seconds for the Coupé to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The powerful AMG engine is visually identifiable by its engine cover with red aluminium insert and AMG lettering.

The exterior: AMG-specific radiator grille and more distinctive headlamps

Everything which sets the GLC Coupé apart is being enhanced even further with the new generation GLC Coupé. Key measures include the even more striking design, AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical chrome-plated fins and MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus.

Seen from the side, the accentuated side sill panels are a particularly striking feature of the Coupé, in the way they give an optical illusion of lowering and elongating the whole vehicle. A similarly eye-catching feature are the aerodynamically optimised 21-inch AMG 5 twin-spoke light-alloy wheels with AMG lettering. With AMG Night package, selected exterior elements are finished in high-gloss black, giving a fascinating all-round look.

Interior: sporty spaciousness with red highlights

The interior design continues through with the sporty design idiom of the exterior and helps to emphasise the dynamic ambitions of the new GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé. The Coupé features sports seats which offer improved lateral support to both the driver and front passenger. The upholstery, in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre, has a distinctive seat upholstery layout with red topstitching. 

The GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage in conjunction with a variable interior, an extensive range of safety features and a high level of long-distance comfort. 

Dynamic design, exceptional ergonomics and intuitive controls are the hallmarks of the new, AMG steering wheel in nappa microfibre. It has a flattened bottom section and is perforated in the grip area. Ergonomically positioned Touch Control buttons ensure intuitive user-friendliness and are conducive to focussed driving.

From comfortable to sporty, from steady to agile: five drive programs with AMG DYNAMICS

The GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé come with a choice of five drive programs: “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual”. Using these allows the characteristics of the vehicle to be individualised even further with the mere touch of a finger. The programs modify key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering.

Speedy shifting and optimum grip

The GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission, which is specifically configured to deliver a dynamic driving experience. It is optimally tuned to the engine and promises the agile pulling away that is typical of AMG, along with speedy gearshift changes – either automatic, or manual via the steering wheel shift paddles. 

The model-specific software application means that very short shift times can be achieved.

The multiple downshift function allows more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the “Sport” and “Sport+” drive programs makes for an even more emotive driving experience. 

The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating. The single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive system is flange-mounted to the transmission as a separate system.

Self-adjusting: the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension 

AMG RIDE CONTROL+ combines the advantages of various types of suspension in one. It is based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension with AMG-specific Adaptive Damping System (ADS PLUS), thereby ensuring both sporty driving dynamics and the comfort on long journeys that is such a hallmark of the brand. The multi-chamber air suspension offers a very broad spread between the most comfortable and the sportiest set-up while adapting to the current load. Thanks to the pneumatic all-round level control system, the vehicle level remains constant, independently of the load it is carrying. At high speeds the vehicle is lowered, to reduce wind resistance and further increase stability.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé is also featured with Mercedes-Benz Driving Assistance Package, with several safety technologies and assistance systems to support the situation with speed adjustment, steering, changing lane and even when there is a risk of a collision. The package comes with Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and PRE-SAFE® system. With the 360° camera, no corners are left unattended. It includes a remarkable bird’s-eye view and four cameras that allows you to see the obstacles via the widescreen cockpit.

Control at your fingertips

The latest version of the MBUX infotainment system with Mercedes me connect further underlines the car’s viability for everyday use and establishes an even closer connection between vehicle, driver and passengers. Whether it’s operated with the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, by voice control or gesture control: the operating system of the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé is both versatile and flexible. Just say “Hey Mercedes”, to activate the interactive voice assistant. 

The driver receives visual information via the 12.3-inch instrument cluster on the left and the 10.25-inch touchscreen display on the right. 

Agility Financing Plan with Mercedes-Benz Financial

Enjoy the power of your Mercedes-AMG while we ensure you are being taken care of with unrivalled benefits such as lower monthly instalment, flexible end of agreement options, MobilityPlus* programme and most importantly, we guarantee the future value of your car no matter what happens. 

Perfectly tailored for individual who seeks performance, value, unrivalled benefits and peace of mind at the wheel, the Agility Financing Plan starts from RM4,987** per month and for a limited time only. For more details call 1-800-88-1133 or speak to a Finance and Insurance Executive at your nearest Mercedes-Benz Autohaus. Terms and conditions apply.  

* A guaranteed temporary Mercedes-Benz replacement car when yours is sent for service and maintenance or warranty claims, for 48 hours or more. 

** Monthly instalment above is calculated based on a 5 years tenure and downpayment of approximately 28% for the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé
Displacement 2996  cc
Max. output 287 kW (390 hp) at 5500-6100 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm
Combined fuel consumption 10.5 – 10.2 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 240-232 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.9 s
Top speed 250 km/h
Recommended Retail Price (OTR without Insurance) RM 498,722.77

*Recommended retail price is effective until the end of the tax-free incentive period.

Joshua Chin

Automotive journalist. Professional work on dsf.my and automacha.com. Personal writing found at driveeveryday.me. Instagram: @driveeveryday

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