Facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLC43 on launchpad

MERCEDES-BENZ Australia/Pacific has pencilled in a first-quarter 2020 launch date for the facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic SUV wagon and coupe that were revealed in Europe overnight.

The hot six-cylinder version of the GLC gains a range of tweaks administered to the standard GLC that arrives in Australia next month, along with an engine boost transplanted from the latest Mercedes-AMG C43 sedan and coupe that arrived in Australia last year.

Power output from the AMG 3.0-litre V6 is up 17kW, to 287kW, thanks to more huff and puff from bigger turbochargers, along with software changes.

The GLC43 accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds, which is the same as the figure quoted for the original GLC43 when it was launched in Australia in December 2016. Top speed remains governed at 250km/h.

The nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system carryover.

AMG designers have given the new-look fascia a remake with AMG-family vertical chrome-plated fins in the grille, along with flatter LED headlights.

AMG 19-inch alloy wheels are standard, with bigger rims up to 21 inches available.

At the back, redesigned LED tail-lights are in evidence, along with a pair of twin round tailpipes protruding from the diffuser.

Inside, the GLC43 gains the latest MBUX infortainment system that is making its way across the Mercedes range.

It can be controlled in a number of ways, including hand gestures and voice control with the opening line ‘Hey Mercedes’.

The vehicle’s digital instruments can be adorned with three AMG-specific styles: Classic, Sport or Supersport.

The GLC43 retains AMG air suspension that automatically adjusts the damping of each wheel according to need for better handling and ride.

Pricing will be revealed closer to launch, but as a guide, the current GLC43 wagon sells for $103,790 plus on-road costs, while the coupe version goes for $111,250.