[ĐÁNH GIÁ XE] Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 - The perfect balance!

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 is worthy of being an SUV from the land of Affalterbach, with a perfect balance between performance and comfort during operation.

Starting from when the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C450 model suddenly appeared with the Mercedes-AMG C43 variant after just one year of launch, the public seemed to feel confused with this move from the German car manufacturer. Many people believe that launching new models with the “43” badge on the back is considered a marketing ploy by Mercedes-AMG, because there are almost no visual changes compared to previous variants. However, in reality, both the C43 and the 2016 GLC 43 offer a great balance between performance and comfort.

The performance of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 is significantly improved thanks to the update that will apply to the 2021 version, with a 3.0L V6 twin-turbo engine producing a maximum capacity of 385 horsepower and 521 Nm of torque. In addition to calibrating the engine block, Mercedes-AMG also equips the car with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic full-time 4-wheel drive system, with the default torque distribution ability of 31% to the front axle and 69% to the rear axle. The design of the 2020 GLC 43 is also stronger with slim headlights, Mercedes-AMG’s signature Panamericana grille, sophisticated taillights and a reshaped rear bumper.

Design: 7/10

Inspired by the Mercedes-Benz 300SL that won the 1952 Carrera Panamericana, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has a beautiful grille with familiar vertical metal spokes. This grille design is currently present across the entire Mercedes-AMG product line, helping to distinguish it from regular versions from Mercedes-Benz.

The large headlight cluster is completed with rounded lines, integrated with LED daytime running lights, giving the front of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 a modern and somewhat… gentle look. Above the front bumper, the fake air intake panels are becoming more and more obvious, reducing the appeal of a sporty GLC that draws on Mercedes-AMG’s heritage.

At the rear, it is easy to see that the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 uses a new taillight cluster structure consisting of LED light strips creating a strong square shape. Modified rear bumper with a system of 4 exhaust pipes placed symmetrically on both sides and a fiercely designed diffuser. Newly refined and reshaped details make the appearance of the GLC 43 more prominent and attractive.

Inside the cabin, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 maintains the same layout as its predecessor, with a control panel design that provides comprehensiveness and ease of operation. The air conditioning vents are still the familiar round shape, spread evenly across the dashboard. For the GLC 43 mentioned in the article, the interior uses high-quality leather with a luxurious Black / Cranberry Red color scheme, carbon fiber decoration on the center stack and aluminum finish on the dashboard and door panels.

Amenities: 7/10

As mentioned, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 has the perfect balance between sporty performance and comfort during travel. The driver’s seat is integrated with support features that provide ultimate comfort, including 4 lumbar adjustment modes and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel to suit all driving positions. In the back seat, passengers do not receive this “favor” with very few support features.

The comfort of driving the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is highly appreciated. Optional $1,500 (~ 34.5 million VND) for 21-inch wheels and Air Body Control sport suspension that adjusts damper stiffness depending on the driver’s style. Customers who pursue privacy can choose the optional thermal and soundproof glass package for the front seats for only 150 USD (~ 3.5 million VND) – a price that raises the question of why it is not a standard equipment feature? Although the multi-mode exhaust system can be turned on/off at will, it still makes the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 a “troublemaker” when traveling on the street at night.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 offers a standard luggage compartment with a capacity of 549 liters, increasing to 1,600 liters when the rear seats are folded flat. Compared to its competitor, the BMW X3 M40i, these numbers are significantly superior with 813 liters and 1,775 liters.

Technology: 9/10

On the 2020 version, the GLC 43 receives the German brand’s exclusive MBUX infotainment system with a 10.3-inch display screen placed in the center of the cockpit. With a sharp display interface, smart tasks and “Hey Mercedes” voice control feature, the new MBUX system will definitely bring users a convenient and enjoyable experience.

The optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is a recommended option package for only 750 USD (~ 17.3 million VND), adding many unique configuration settings and sharp gauges. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 also scores points in this technology category with the option of a 13-speaker Burmester 590-watt sound system with active noise cancellation, providing clear bass and bass sound effects.

Engine and performance: 9/10

With just a light operation on the start button located underneath the steering wheel, the attractive 3.0L V6 twin-turbo engine will roar with excitement. The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 boasts a power of 385 horsepower and 521 Nm – all higher than its two big rivals, the BMW X3 M40i (382 horsepower/495 Nm) and Audi SQ5 (349 horsepower/500 Nm). Not only that, the GLC 43 is also about 52 kg and 65 kg lighter than its two competitors from Audi and BMW. However, only when driving can you realize that these outstanding numbers are nothing compared to the way the GLC 43 handles on the road.

According to Mercedes-AMG, the GLC 43 takes about 4.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h, before reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h. These numbers can theoretically be achieved with very little turbo lag, responsive throttle response in the most powerful driving mode setting – Race. When returning to Sport Plus mode, the AMG Air Body Control air suspension system gives the GLC 43 extremely firm and stable “cornering” ability.

The handling ability of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 is highly appreciated with a well-weighted steering wheel that provides accurate feedback. Meanwhile, the 4Matic system with most of the driving force sent to the rear axle will ensure the necessary traction for the vehicle. Thanks to larger brake discs and brake shackles, the GLC 43 has proven its actual braking performance in MotorTrend testing, with a shorter braking distance than the GLC 300. However, the brake pedal is quite soft and releases slowly, not creating a feeling of confidence for the driver. Therefore, stopping the car requires concentration from the driver, not because the GLC 43’s braking system has a problem but because of the lack of feeling on the brake pedal.

Safety: 9/10

In terms of standard features, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 receives automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring and warning. The GLC 43 version in this article is supplemented with the Driver Assistance Package option worth 1,700 USD (~ 39 million VND), including: Distronic full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, rear collision warning when reversing,… All of them work very well to ensure the GLC 43 is always safe when encountering everyday traffic situations, while reducing the burden on the driver on long trips. It’s not surprising given Mercedes-Benz’s long experience in safety technology.

The only factor keeping the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 from achieving a perfect score in this category is that most of the active driver assistance technology is available as optional upgrade packages. However, this is very understandable as many car manufacturers today offer advanced safety features as options.

Selling price: 2/10

With a starting price of 59,500 USD (~ 1.37 billion VND) in the US, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 2020 with the option of Graphite Gray Metallic exterior paint and the series of options mentioned in the article has pushed the selling price to 76,450 USD (~ 1.76 billion VND). For comparison, a BMW X3 with equivalent option packages costs less than 70,000 USD (~ 1.61 billion VND), while an Audi SQ5 is about 72,000 USD (~ 1.66 billion VND).

Quang Hung (Tuoitrethudo)

According to: Motor1