2025 Mercedes AMG GLC 43 Review – Better than the 63?

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Four cylinders from #AMG have been a sore subject over the last few years. The C63’s fall from grace, and its shared underpinnings with the #GLC 63, created a massive backlash — especially from those who remember the last GLC AMG as a powerful, soulful SUV. But back when I reviewed the 680hp GLC 63, I theorised that the lower-tier GLC 43 might actually be the smarter buy. A car that keeps the visual punch of the 63, but ditches 300kg of weight and 30 grand off the price tag.

So today we find out: is this the best of #MercedesAMG's four-cylinder era, or just another example of downsizing gone wrong?

We’ll explore every angle of the GLC 43 including:

Full walkaround + powertrain breakdown
Real-world performance analysis
Interior, tech & practicality
Future of the GLC line: V8 rumours, EVs & more
A full driving review on UK roads
How is it vs the BMW X3 M50?
And what about the GLC 300e + 300de Plug in Hybrids?

🚨 WALKAROUND & POWERTRAIN

The best thing about the new GLC 43? It shares the exact same AMG body as the GLC 63. Unlike past 43 models, which felt like AMG-lite, this one has its own front and rear end, plus all the signature styling details. Visually, there’s not much compromise.

What has changed is under the bonnet. Gone is the V6, replaced by the hand-built M139L four-cylinder, the same block you’ll find in the A45 S. It’s longitudinally mounted here and features F1-style electric exhaust gas turbocharging, paired with a 48V mild hybrid system delivering short bursts of extra boost.

Power: 421 PS
Torque: 500 Nm
0-60 mph: 4.8 sec
Top Speed: 250 km/h

Power goes to a rear-biased 4MATIC system via AMG’s 9-speed MCT gearbox, while the chassis gets adaptive suspension, AMG-specific steering, and rear-axle steering. It lacks some of the more expensive hardware of the 63 — like active engine mounts and roll stabilisation — but it’s also 300kg lighter at 1975kg, and noticeably more agile in day-to-day driving.

🚨 INTERIOR, TECH & EQUIPMENT

The cabin is classic modern AMG — Alcantara and contrast stitching, steering wheel digital displays, and plenty of practical space front and rear. You’ll notice some cost-saving versus higher-end AMGs, but the quality and tech integration remain strong for the segment.

We’ll break down available options, trim levels, and pricing for the UK market — including how this slots into the broader GLC range.

🚨 FUTURE OF GLC – THE V8 RETURN?

Now, what about the future of the GLC family? With rumours swirling about AMG’s V8 Offensive starting in 2026/2027, the GLC 63 is a likely candidate to regain its V8 powerplant in a facelift. We’ve seen similar signs on the CLE 63, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the GLC follow that path.

And then there’s the fully electric GLC EV, already deep in prototype testing. Based on the new MB.EA platform, it promises:

404+ mile range
Up to 483 BHP
800V architecture (320 kW charging 10 mins = 162 miles!)
Advanced brake-by-wire regen & RWD or dual motor AWD

So whether you’re holding out for the V8 comeback or waiting for the next-gen EV version, the GLC family is about to expand again soon.

For now, we’ve got this 43 — is it the best of the current AMG GLC range? That’s exactly what we’ll find out in today’s full review!

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Driving Disclaimer:
All driving shots were filmed by professionals in safe environments or on closed roads. Please drive safely!