The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe: Because everyone wants more fast

AMG continues its quest to place its badge on everything Mercedes makes, filling in the gaps in its expanding lineup. The latest vehicle to say AMG on the back (and the sides, and the wheels, and...) is the GLC Coupe. Just like the GLC300 4Matic Coupe we reviewed earlier this year, the GLC43 Coupe is a fastback crossover that appeals to drivers who want the most of the utility of a compact SUV with a sportier look. And now with some added performance.

Like other 43 AMG models, it can be considered a sort of tweener model that bridges the gap between the normal production Mercedes and the full-bore AMGs – the 45s, 55s, 63s, and 65s of the world. This new AMG "coupe" features the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 from the regular Mercedes-AMG GLC43 crossover that generates 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. With an AMG-tuned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system that is rear-biased (31:69) and a quick-shiftinf nine-speed automatic transmission, the 0-to-60-mph sprint takes just 4.8 seconds. The GLC43 Coupe's direct competitor, the BMW X4 M40i, isn't as powerful at 355 horsepower, but takes slightly less time to get to 60 mph – 4.7 seconds according to BMW.

The rest of the details match those of the other GLC43. Larger brakes have four-piston fixed calipers at the front and one-piston floating calipers at the rear. An AMG-ified version of the GLC's Air Body Control suspension system has selectable modes and can also lift the crossover to provide ground clearance for some light off-roading, although the tires are definitely for street use. There's also a complete AMG appearance package to the exterior, which we have to admit looks pretty killer on the black car shown here.

The GLC43 Coupe's interior has sport seats with black MB-Tex and Dinamica microfiber with red stitching, and a meaty flat-bottomed, multifunction steering wheel with the same color combination. Oh yeah, the seat belts are also red – you know, in the name of sportiness. Drivers can record lap times, for track days only, with the included Race Timer, and the gauges have a checkered-flag background to really hammer the theme home.

The GLC43 Coupe will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on September 28th and will be available in the US early next year. And if that's still not enough sporty swoopy crossover fastback for you, we hear a GLC63 is on the way with a twin-turbo V8 and the full-on AMG treatment.

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