Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe & GLC43
The All-New Replacements
The all-new GLC is the direct replacement for the outgoing and highly successful GLK-Class and offers drivers a vehicle that is longer, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. The GLC Coupe is seen as a more lifestyle-focused and fun-to-drive version of the standard GLC SUV. Meanwhile, the GLC43 will carry on the AMG tradition of taking what is already a stout-hearted vehicle and turning it into a high-performance, no-holds-barred, road-eating powerhouse.
While the GLC300 is already 2.3 inches (58.42 mm) longer than the GLK, the sporty design of the GLC Coupe stretches this extra length out another 3.2 inches (81 mm). The GLC Coupe measures 186.5 inches (4737 mm) from front to back and sits 1.6 inches (41 mm) closer to the ground.
Inside these GLC-Class vehicles, you will find seating for up to five adults, and thanks to the extra length between the axles, even those relegated to the rear seats will find there is ample leg room for everyone. According to Mercedes-Benz, the Coupe and standard GLC will offer similar leg, shoulder, and elbow room. Due in part to the sportier styling, those who opt for the Coupe may find they have to give up a little headroom — but, fortunately, not enough to make the vehicle feel cramped, even for taller passengers.
Under The Hood
Much like the standard GLC300, the Coupe will feature a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. This engine is rated at a full 241 horsepower and is more than capable of delivering 273 lb-ft of torque to the all-new nine-speed shiftable automatic transmission. The GLC Coupe also comes armed with the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel drive. This combination of features under the hood will be more than a match for the BMW X4 base model, which only offers all-wheel drive as an option. (In comparison, 4MATIC is standard on the GLC Coupe).
If this is not enough power for you, there is more to come in the form of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC43. As you might expect, everything under the hood and in the drivetrain has been pushed to its limits by the AMG performance arm of Mercedes-Benz. According to Tobias Moers, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz-AMG GmbH, “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.”
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 will feature a 3.0-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers. This engine is rated at a massive 362 horsepower and quite capable of delivering a full 384 lb-ft of torque. All of this power is connected to the drivetrain via a custom 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This transmission has been modified to achieve shorter shift times and is paired with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system for optimum performance in mud, rain, snow, and ice. The system is designed to provide more torque to the rear wheels for a more dynamic driving experience out on the open roads.
A Life of Luxury
As with any vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz stable, the GLC Coupe and GLC43 sport an exceptionally luxurious interior. You will be able to choose from either the standard and very comfortable MB-Tex cloth upholstery or, for the ultimate in decadence, soft-touch leather throughout. Among the many standard features you can expect to find in both models are a 7.0-inch full-color infotainment touchscreen, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and keyless entry and ignition. Other available options include front seats that are heated and cooled, heated rear seats, and an adjustable air ride suspension for more control and a better ride.
Both the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe and GLC43 are expected to become available later this year or in the early part of next year following the release of the GLC300 in the fall of 2016. Both of these amazing coupes will be well worth waiting for.