2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43

The 2022 GLC 43 is only available with one trim level and gets several features over the standard GLC 300 model like sports-tuned suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels, customizable cabin ambient lighting, and more. Other notable features include power-adjustable seats with heating, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and more. Mercedes also offers several optional packages like the driver assistance package, multimedia package, AMG performance studio package, and more. Some of the optional packages include Exterior Lighting Package, AMG Performance Studio Package, Driver Assistance Package among other standalone optional features.

Which Trim should you buy?

You're not spoilt for choice since the 2022 GLC 43 is available in only one trim level. However, it comes with all the luxuries you expect like a power liftgate, massive 20-inch alloys, power-adjustable and heated front seats, and more. Mercedes also offers plenty of optional packages to spruce up the vehicle. 

Release Date

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is expected to hit the markets by the start of the third quarter of 2021. 

One of the biggest advantages of the GLC 43 over the bigger models is the fuel efficiency on offer. In the city, the GLC 43 returns 18 MPG, which jumps to 24 MPG on the highway. The tank capacity is also average at 17.4 gallons, translating to a highway range of just over 400 miles. The upcoming model will retain the fuel economy figures since the powertrain will be carried forward.

*2021 MY specs used for reference

Because of their bigger V-6 engines, both the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and Audi SQ5 offer low fuel efficiency as compared to the rivals here. The 2022 Porsche Macan S is the least efficient of the lot offering 19 MPG combined. The BMW X3 M40i comfortably takes the lead, returning an impressive 23 MPG combined even with the highest power output and manages the highest range of 407 miles. The Audi SQ5 has the largest fuel tank of 18.5-gallons and closely follows the BMW in terms of the distance it can cover in a single fuel refill.

With the latest generation, Mercedes has taken a different approach to their cabin design with plenty of wood and glamour spread out everywhere. Unfortunately, the 2022 GLC-Class still doesn’t get the updated cabin found in the new S-Class and E-Class models which include dual HD displays side by side. But, the current design still manages to look modern and sporty with well-laid out controls and a driver-centric layout. The AMG models also get an upgraded steering wheel with a center strip, indicating the performance on offer. Cabin materials are also improved compared to the standard model.

Space is more than adequate, and 5 adults can easily sit with room to spare. The rear legroom stands at 39.6-inches which is the biggest in its class. Cargo space is average at 17.6 cubic feet which can easily swallow up your weekend luggage, and the rear seats can be folded down to increase capacity to 56.5 cubic feet. 

*2021 MY specs used for reference

With plenty of space in both rows, the GLC 43 manages to edge out its competitors when comparing passenger space. Both the Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 share the second spot. But, the GLC 43 gets limited trunk space at just 17.6 cubic feet, which is lower than the BMW X3 and Audi SQ5, both of which offer more than 25 cubic feet. The 2022 Porsche Macan S has a similar cargo capacity as the Mercedes-AMG, but like every other model from the brand, its interior space is still not known. 

Standout interior features:

• Simulated leather upholstery
• Customizable cabin ambient lighting
• Power-adjustable and heated front seats
• Dual-zone climate control
• Keyless entry with push-button start
• Power liftgate

What’s there to keep you entertained?

Like the standard model, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 also gets a regular 6-speaker audio system with a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display that runs the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s new MBUX interface. The system can also be controlled through a touchpad on the center console, connected voice commands, gesture controls, and steering wheel touchpads for easier access. 

All the features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, HD radio, and more are expected to be made available with the current MY. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is also available as a standard. Customers can also opt for a bigger 12.3-inch display, navigation, and an upgraded Burmester sound system for improved audio quality.

Standout infotainment features:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen display with MBUX interface
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• SiriusXM satellite and HD radio
• Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• Burmester sound system (Optional)
• In-built navigation (Optional)

Although the Coupe model is designed with aesthetics in mind, the regular 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 SUV exterior design is handsome with typical Mercedes-Benz elements like a bold front grille housing the Tristar logo, and sleek LED headlights. The logo can also be customized to light up with LEDs. Being a crossover, the GLC also gets typical design elements like silver roof rails, fender flares, and subtle cladding all around. The rear also gets a proportionate design with dual exhaust tips and a diffuser. 

As expected, the AMG models get some aggressive styling elements like 20-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out exterior panels including the rear diffuser. Optional appearance packages are also available to spruce up the looks. 

*2021 MY specs used for reference

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 is more compact and lighter than its rivals, and also gets the longest wheelbase at 113.1 inches. It sports adequate ground clearance of 6.7 inches and with no changes to the exterior design and dimensions, it continues to be the lightest option in the segment with a curb weight of 4,180 lbs.

In comparison, the BMW X3 M40i is the largest crossover and has the best-in-class ground clearance of 7.2 inches here. It is followed by the Audi SQ5. Porsche Macan S offers a similar length and comparably larger width but it sits a little low. It also has the shortest wheelbase in the lot.

Standout exterior features:

• Adaptive LED headlights with DRLs
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Bold front grille with LED-lit logo (Optional)
• Blacked-out exterior elements 
• Dual-outlet exhaust with a rear diffuser
• Paint Protection Film 

The GLC Class is still underpinned by the Mercedes-Benz MRA platform, which also underpins most other models. Because of their higher prices and limited sales, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 hasn’t been crash-tested by either the NHTSA or the IIHS. However, the regular 2021 GLC-Class scored exceptionally well in the IIHS safety tests, securing the coveted “Top Safety Pick” award, and a “Good” overall score in all tests. 

It is also equipped with plenty of active safety features as standard including automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert,blind-spot monitoring, and an automated parking system. Opting for the optional driver-assistance package for $1,700 also adds a lot more features like active distance assist, evasive steering assists, emergency braking assist, lane change assist, blind-spot assist, and more. 

Standout safety features:

• Automated emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Automated parking system
• 360-degree camera (Optional)
• Front and rear parking sensors

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 vs 2022 Audi SQ5

While both crossovers are built for performance from the ground up, there are several distinct differences between the two. While the 2022 GLC 43 concentrates on performance with a capable drivetrain, the Audi SQ5 offers a better ride and is more practical overall with a significantly larger trunk and comfortable ride. The Audi also gets all the latest technology, making it future-proof to a certain extent. Overall, as a complete package, the Audi SQ5 is a better pick unless and until Mercedes gives the GLC a complete facelift like the C-Class.

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 vs 2022 BMW X3 M40i

Staying true to its name, the BMW X3 M40i is one of the most engaging crossovers to drive thanks to a better powertrain that is faster and more efficient than the GLC. The X3 also offers a lot more cargo space, better handling, and a balanced ride. However, the GLC 43 offers a lot more value and gets a more modern cabin that feels every bit as luxurious and high quality as its price tag suggests. The GLC also looks better especially with the AMG treatment. Overall, the X3 slightly edges out the GLC 43, thanks to the better performance on offer, which is important for a performance SUV.

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 vs 2022 Porsche Macan S

GLC 43 is a lot more comfortable and easier to live with thanks to a well-laid-out cabin, comfortable seats, and a balanced ride. But, if we talk numbers, the Porsche Macan S offers a lot better performance. As a performance SUV that’s fun to drive, the Macan S is the better choice overall.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is currently the best-selling model in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup for good reason. It offers plenty of practicality and comfort with minimal compromises. For performance SUVs, AMG models like the 2022 AMG GLC 43 offer an excellent overall package with plenty of performance, comfortable seats, and a long feature list. However, prices can get expensive with some options. Although some compromises have been made like a firmer ride and limited trunk space, it is still an excellent overall package that offers luxury and performance in a practical SUV body style.