An SUV crossover need not be a humdrum practical people hauler, at least not if the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has anything to say about it. It's certainly not the only one gunning for the title of most thrilling SUV, with similarly premium rivals like the Porsche Macan and BMW X3 M40i racing alongside. Nevertheless, it makes an excellent showing with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that's good for 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Of course, it wouldn't be a Merc without an ultra-luxurious interior and all the latest tech toys, and this is where it really shines against the competition. That's not to say it isn't an engaging and enjoyable driver, but it's hard to beat Porsche and BMW at that game. But, with the ever-evolving crossover segment in the USA and the introduction of more advanced upscale EV cars, how much longer will a go-fast gasoline vehicle like this remain relevant?
After its substantial facelift last year, the 2021 GLC 43 SUV receives only minor updates. These include standard Parktronic with active parking assist and rear cross-traffic alert. In terms of aesthetics, Cirrus Silver replaces Iridium as a body paint option. These aren't a lot of changes for the current model cycle, but we are expecting to see an all-new GLC in the not-too-distant future, so this hesitance to over-invest makes sense.
See trim levels and configurations:
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMG GLC 43 4MATIC SUV |
3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas
|
9-Speed Automatic
|
All-Wheel Drive
|
$59,900 |
The first-generation AMG GLC 43 SUV is drawing near to the end of its life, but it will definitely be going out with a bang. Yes, it is starting to look a bit dated on the inside, but the V6 engine won't be making a return. Mercedes already has some great turbo-four units in its lineup, and the compact AMG will be taking one to the tuning bench for the next GLC 43. You will still be able to find a potent V6 in the larger GLC 63, but the smaller crossover has always boasted better handling dynamics. This may be reason enough to buy one now while you still can, but the next generation will likely have even better features as standard, and boast improved fuel economy. It probably won't get an official safety rating, since the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has not been put to review in all its years. Still, the premium automaker really packs its 5-door crossover full of safety features and driver assists, and it has a good reputation for reliability. The BMW X3 M40i is a great alternative if you don't want an end-of-life GLC 43, but you wouldn't be disappointed if you got the Merc now before it's too late.
The most popular competitors of 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV:
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Bollinger
BrightDrop
Bugatti
Buick
Cadillac
Caterham
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Fiat
Fisker
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Gordon Murray Automotive
Hennessey
Honda
Hyundai
Infiniti
Jaguar
Jeep
Karma
Kia
Koenigsegg
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lordstown
Lotus
Lucid Motors
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pagani
Polestar
Porsche
Ram
Rimac
Rivian
Rolls-Royce
Spyker
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
VinFast
Volkswagen
Volvo