2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe

header-image
Rating7.0

Ranked #12 in 

Compact SUV
Write Review
$63,000
Starting Price 
M. Hannigan's image
M. Hannigan 

Content Writer,

Updated on November 3, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Spacious Cabin

Dated Design

The new iteration of the Mercedes AMG GLC 43 does not offer any major noticeable upgrades.

Rapid acceleration

Unnecessarily expensive packages

Decent fuel efficiency for a V6

Specs & Features

$63,000

price

385 hp @ 5500 rpm

horsepower

384 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

torque

9-Speed Automatic w/od

transmission

3.0L 6cyl AWD 9A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The rise of the planet of the crossovers has compelled the other body styles to exit the high road. It has also pressurized the global automakers to placate the crossover buyers with bigger engines, sporty handling, and better utility to cash in on the trend. By replicating their winning formula with a coupe-style, Mercedes yet again brings the GLC back into the coupe-SUV scene. The AMG spices up the engine bay to generate a lion’s power and at the same time, the coupe roofline adds a feline flavor in design.

With a sticker price of $61,200, the 2020 Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 43 coupe employs an AMG tuned turbocharged V6 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain cranks out 385 horsepower and 384-pound-feet of torque. 

Buying Advice

Although it comes in only one trim, you get various optional features and packages to upgrade and customize your GLC 43 coupe. Thus, we recommend you to to have a look at them and customize your SUV as per your taste.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The powertrain of the 2020 GLC 43 cranks out 385 horsepower and 384-pound feet of peak torque. It's nothing compared to the top trim AMG GLC 63 which uses a V8 engine and spread carnage on the freeway. This coupe SUV flaunting the 3-star badge on the front grille has to prove itself against the likes of Audi SQ5, BMW X3, and Porsche Cayenne. 

Features
7.0/10

Offered in a single configuration, the 2020 Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 43 comes priced at $57,000 and equips itself with a 3.0 liter twin-turbo V6 and the AMG 4Matic driving system. Although all the AMG provides us in the GLC 43, this trim is filled up with quite some abundant features along with the performance features induced by the AMG.

Trims

AMG GLC 43 4matic

MSRP

$61,200

Key Features

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

 

AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC

 

20-inch AMG multispoke wheels, silver

 

3-spoke multifunction steering wheel

 

Electromechanical power steering

 

ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist

 

Adaptive braking technology

 

Nappa leather multifunction steering wheel

 

Topstitched MB-Tex upper dash and door trim

We Recommend

Although it comes in only one trim, you get various optional features and packages to upgrade and customize your GLC 43 coupe. So all we recommend you is to have a look at them and customize your SUV as per your taste.

Fuel Economy
4.0/10

The Mercedes GLC 43 has decent fuel efficiency given its powertrain delivering 21 MPG with a mileage of 19 MPG in the city and 25 on the highway.

Model

Mercedes AMG GLC 43 SUV

Audi SQ5 Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Porsche Cayenne

Maserati Levante

Jaguar F-Pace S

Range Rover Velar S

MPG (city)

19

19

20

25*

16.2*

18

TBD

MPG (highway)

25

24

27

35*

24*

23

TBD

MPG (combined)

21

21

23

30*

20.2*

20

TBD

The 2020 Mercedes GLC 43 is not the best SUV when it comes to fuel economy but remains similar to the BMW X3 and the Audi SQ5 that are quite some performers and also maintain a decent economy.

Interior
8.0/10

"Mercedes' typically firm seats result in supreme long-distance comfort. Three consecutive days with five-hour-plus drives yielded nary an ache or pain. Optional front-seat thigh adjustment increases comfort further. The seat bolsters to keep you in place when cornering." -edmunds

Seating and Comfort

Looking at the GLC 43 from outside might seem quite compact, however, it is quite spacious, comfortable and luxurious on the inside. Adorned with luxury and AMG sporty features, the trim, and dash around the cabin has an opulent feel to it. It has headroom of 41.9 inches (front) and 38.5 inches (rear), a shoulder room of 57.3 inches (front) and 56.5 inches (back) and a spacious legroom of 41.9 inches (front) and 37.3 inches (back). This is an SUV that you don't have to hesitate to take someone on a long drive.

Model

Mercedes AMG GLC 43

Audi Q5 2.0L Premium AWD

BMW X3 M40i

Porsche Cayenne

Maserati Levante

Jaguar F-Pace S

Range Rover Velar S

Passenger capacity

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

38.9/57.3/40.8

41.7/57.7/41.0

40.0/57.6/40.3

TBD

TBD

37.8/57.7/40.3

38.1/NA/40.3

Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

38.3/55.8/37.2

39.3/56.5/37.8

38.5/56.0/36.4

TBD

TBD

37.5/55.8/37.2

38/NA/37.2

Infotainment System

In the middle of the cabin sits a Standard Mercedes infotainment system. This system comes with a touchpad controller, a 7-inch screen, etc. There are also many other features that come in addition to this infotainment system. They are:

  • The central controller and 7-inch color display
  • Front Bass system
  • Bluetooth audio streaming
  • Pre-wiring for Garmin Map Pilot
  • Dual USB audio ports
  • HD Radio receiver
  • SiriusXM Radio with 6-month All Access trial

Interior Features

Some interior features include in the GLC 43 are as follows -

  • Power front sport seats with memory
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • 3 years of Mercedes me Connect Services
  • Mercedes me connect Assist Services
  • Remote Start via Mercedes Me Mobile App
  • Heated front seats
  • 40/20/40-split rear seats with power folding
  • Power-folding side mirrors
  • MB-Tex/Dinamica upholstery
  • Keyless entry and ignition
  • Power liftgate
  • The automatic lowering for easier cargo loading
  • Household-type 115V power outlet
  • Illuminated entry system
  • Refined cargo compartment

Cargo Volume

In the trunk, the 2020 Mercedes Benz AMG GLC 43 is commodious and helps you to easily load it up with as many utilities as you want. It has an impressive cargo cabin of 56.5 cu.ft for this purpose behind its second row.

Model

Mercedes AMG GLC 43

Audi SQ5 3.0L Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Porsche Cayenne

Maserati Levante

Jaguar F-Pace S

Range Rover Velar S

Cargo Volume (ft.3)

56.5

25.1

28.7

27.1

19.4

33.5

34.4

Exterior
8.0/10

"The 2020 Benz GLC crossover nails a rigorous set of safety hurdles for a perfect score here." -thecarconnection

Design and Dimensions

In its exterior, the heavy-duty Silver Arrow does not get any major changes this year. The AMG GLC 43 still carries the looks of its predecessors. This 4184 lbs heavy SUV-coupe s 189.6 inches in length, 76.2 inches in width and 69.5 inches in height. The GLC looks like SUV which is quite compact but stands tall when parked beside its competitors. It has a sporty aesthetic with curves and a defining exterior that define well its character.

Model

Mercedes AMG GLC 43

Audi SQ5 Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Porsche Cayenne

Maserati Levante

Jaguar F-Pace S

Range Rover Velar S

Curb weight (lbs.)

4184

4321

4277

4,377

4,649

4,090

4,471

Length(in)

186.1

183.6

186.1

193.7

197

186.3

189

Width(in)

76

74.5

74.7

86.4

85

81.5

85.4

Height(in)

62.5

65.3

66.0

66.8

66.1

65

65.5

Ground clearance (in)

6.7

8.2

8.0

8.2

TBD

8.4

8.3

Wheelbase (in)

113.1

111.2

112.8

114

118.3

113.1

113.1

Track width (in) F/R

64.5/65.2

63.9/63.6

63.0/63.6

66.2/65.9

63.9/66

64.6/65.1

64.6/65.2

Exterior Features

The GLC 43 comes with some of the following exterior features -

  • Aggressively elegant design
  • The class standard in cabin style
  • Spaciousness and solidity
  • Performance-focused cockpit
  • Anodized roof rails
  • AMG body styling
  • Chrome diamond-block grille
  • Gloss Black exterior accents
  • 20-inch AMG multispoke wheels, silver

 

Safety
8.0/10

With the NHTSA and IIHS yet to rate the GLC 43, it can be said that it is pretty safe after looking at the list of Safety features it provides you. Some of them are -

  • Active Brake Assist
  • Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call
  • Attention Assist
  • Crosswind Assist
  • LED Daytime Running Lamps and taillamps
  • Blind Spot Assist
  • Rearview camera
  • Seat belt technology
  • 7 airbags
  • Adaptive braking technology
  • Antilock Braking System (ABS)
  • Brake Assist (BAS)
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
  • 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS)
  • Trailer Stability Assist
  • Aluminum and high-strength steel body structure
  • Advanced Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • SmartKey with KEYLESS-START
  • Antitheft alarm system with remote panic feature
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Electric parking brake

 

Competition
6.0/10

Mercedes AMG GLC 43 vs Audi SQ5

Aside from the fact that the Mercedes has a stronger powertrain and hence performs quicker, the SQ5 clearly is an overall better package. It has similar fuel efficiency but adds better value to its features and list of advanced tech. Value for money? We think the Silver Arrow all but fails to tackle the 4-rings. The SQ5 should be your preferred SUV and is steel as it is also cheaper.

Mercedes AMG GLC 43 vs BMW X3 M40i

Comparing the GLC 43 with the BMW X3 M40i, the choice is a thin line to walk on because they go hand-in-hand on most parameters. The Beemer is quicker, delivers athletic and robust handling, has a greater fuel economy, and provides easy to use infotainment systems with gesture controls. It's also cheaper than the Mercedes and since both these SUVs are similar, it totally depends on what brand you'd prefer.

Final Verdict
7.8/10

The GLC may be the same as it was before but it still looks as much appealing as it was before. Merc gives a glimpse of what AMG could do on a 4000-pound car! The engine chemistry remains the same with enough power and engine's rumbling sound to snatch the attention from other SUVs. Performance is GLC' s biggest marketing point though other aspects of the SUV are also commendable, however, you cannot deny the fact that other SUVs have better deals.

Trims

    Base
    $63,000 onwards
    • Intuitive Parking assist

Compare to similar cars

Price

$63,000

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.98

Horsepower

385 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque

384 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$66,800- $126,500

Gasoline

7.79

335 hp @ 5300 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1340 rpm

5

Read Review

$41,950- $55,900

Gasoline

7.75

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$45,200- $80,600

Gasoline

6.77

247 hp @ 5500 rpm

269 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$77,500- $171,500

Gasoline

7.51

345 hp @ 5750 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

$43,300- $55,800

Gasoline

7.05

248 hp @ 5000 rpm

273 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$52,900- $62,150

Gasoline

8.24

349 hp @ 5400 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

5

Read Review

$90,900- $209,500

Gasoline

7.73

355 hp @ 5500 rpm

365 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$54,900- $59,500

Gasoline

7.53

385 hp @ 5500 rpm

384 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

5

Read Review

$73,750

Gasoline

6.81

469 hp @ 5500 rpm

479 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    4.53 sec12.1 sec-
    4.11 sec--
    4.13 sec-114 mph
    4.51 sec13.8 sec-
    2020 Audi SQ5

    Ranked #5

    5.1 sec13.8 sec155 mph
    5.7 sec14.2 sec140 mph

    2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      18 mpg24 mpg21 mpg17.4 gal.313.2/417.6 mi.
      2020 BMW X3

      Ranked #1

      25 mpg29 mpg27 mpg17.2 gal.430/498.8 mi.
      2020 Audi Q5

      Ranked #2

      22 mpg28 mpg24 mpg18.5 gal.407/518 mi.
      22 mpg27 mpg24 mpg21.7 gal.477.4/585.9 mi.
      19 mpg24 mpg21 mpg27.5 gal.522.5/660 mi.
      18 mpg24 mpg21 mpg17.4 gal.313.2/417.6 mi.

      2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        186.1 in.76 in.62.5 in.6.7 in.113.1 in.
        197 in.77.5 in.66.7 in.8 in.118.3 in.
        196.9 in.78.1 in.73.6 in.8.7 in.115 in.
        193.7 in.78.1 in.66.8 in.7.4 in.114 in.

        2020 BMW X4 M

        Ranked #4

        187.5 in.75.9 in.63.7 in.8 in.112.8 in.
        186.9 in.76 in.62.4 in.6.4 in.113.1 in.

        2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          17.6 cu.ft.-49.4 cu.ft.
          33.5 cu.ft.145.7 cu.ft.95.4 cu.ft.
          2020 Audi SQ5

          Ranked #2

          25.1 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.
          17.6 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          27.1 cu.ft.99.9 cu.ft.60.3 cu.ft.
          2020 Audi Q5

          Ranked #6

          25.1 cu.ft.98 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.

          2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            49.4 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.49.4 cu.ft.-
            2020 Audi SQ5

            Ranked #2

            57.5 cu.ft.25.1 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.76 ft.
            55.4 cu.ft.27.1 cu.ft.60.3 cu.ft.-
            2020 BMW X3

            Ranked #4

            15.5 cu.ft.28.7 cu.ft.62.7 cu.ft.-
            36.1 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.36.1 cu.ft.-
            56.5 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.-

            2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupe vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              3500 lbs.1283 lbs.4235 lbs.
              7716 lbs.1732 lbs.4974 lbs.
              7700 lbs.1657 lbs.4582 lbs.
              5952 lbs.-4650 lbs.
              5291 lbs.1550 lbs.3870 lbs.
              4409 lbs.1435 lbs.4099 lbs.

              Top Mercedes-Benz Cars

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 65

              Horsepower : 621 hp @ 4800 rpm

              MPG Combined : 16 mpg

              0-60 : 3.74 sec

              #1

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 S

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 3.42 sec

              #2

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 3.45 sec

              #3

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 6250 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.11 sec

              #4

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R Pro

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 6250 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.11 sec

              #5

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 6250 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.49 sec

              #6

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 14 mpg

              0-60 : 4.29 sec

              #7

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63

              Horsepower : 550 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 14 mpg

              0-60 : 4.2 sec

              #8

              2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S

              Horsepower : 503 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 3.66 sec

              #9

              2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580

              Horsepower : 483 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 5.48 sec

              #10