Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC Review

In the luxury mid-size SUV market, D-segment models have always been the first choice for users seeking a balanced experience — they want brand prestige, daily practicality, and occasionally wish to unleash some driving passion. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4Matic+ has just been launched in Malaysia, with very clear key selling points: the new 2.0T hybrid system surpasses the performance of the previous 3.0T model, features have been fully upgraded, while still maintaining AMG's sporty DNA. This test drive focuses on two questions: Can the hybrid system truly balance performance and fuel efficiency? Can the updated configuration and space meet the needs of family users?

Approaching the new car, the most noticeable feature is the size upgrade — measuring 4792/2076/1603mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 2888mm, it is 136mm longer, 186mm wider, and has a 15mm extended wheelbase compared to the 2018 model, giving it a sleeker appearance. The front face continues the AMG family design, featuring a vertical chrome grille paired with large air intake openings in the bumper, making it highly recognizable; the LED headlights on both sides have sharp designs, and the daytime running lights use a distinctive three-pointed star LED strip, exuding a high-tech feel when illuminated. The side profile of the car boasts smooth lines, with 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels paired with 265/40R21 front and 275/35R21 rear wide tires, enhancing its sporty stance. The roof's coupe-like design is not overly exaggerated, ensuring ample rear headroom. The rear section is highlighted by AMG’s classic dual twin-circle exhausts, while the LED tail lights feature a matrix layout that echoes the design of the front headlights. Overall, the design maintains a sense of luxury without being overly ostentatious.

Inside, the quality of the interior has been noticeably elevated. The dashboard features extensive soft leather wrapping, combined with metallic accents and piano lacquer panels, providing a refined tactile experience wherever you touch. The 11.9-inch central touchscreen is tilted 6 degrees towards the driver for easier operation; the fully digital instrument panel displays clear graphics and offers three modes: Classic, Sporty, and Super Sporty. Combined with the HUD heads-up display, drivers need not look down frequently while driving. In terms of configuration, the front seats are equipped with electric adjustments, four-way lumbar support, memory features, and heating, ensuring long-distance driving comfort. The rear seats support a 40:20:20 split, and the trunk offers a capacity of 545 liters, sufficient to accommodate a stroller or golf bag. The 15-speaker Burmester sound system delivers clear and immersive audio quality, the dual-zone automatic air conditioning provides rear air vents, and the panoramic fixed sunroof with sunblind significantly improves comfort compared to the previous version.

Starting the vehicle, the combination of a 2.0T turbocharged engine and 48V mild hybrid system offers impressive specifications: combined maximum horsepower of 421PS and peak torque of 500N·m, which is 49PS and 50N·m more than the previous 3.0T version. It achieves an official 0–100km/h acceleration of 4.8 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than the previous model. During real-world driving, the electric motor provides obvious assistance during initial acceleration, delivering swift power response without turbo lag. Switching to Sport+ mode, the throttle becomes more sensitive, and deep pressing provides a continuous thrust up to over 6,000 rpm, making overtaking effortless. The 9-speed DCT gearbox offers clear shifting logic, with smooth transitions during daily cruising and fast gear changes during spirited driving, almost free of jolt.

In terms of handling, the front and rear multi-link independent suspension are tuned on the stiffer side but retain a certain vibration filtering capability. When passing over speed bumps, the suspension quickly absorbs vibrations without excess bouncing; on continuously bumpy roads, the car's posture remains stable, and passengers won't feel jolted. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play, providing clear directionality in corners. Combined with the 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system, the grip is sufficient during turns, even at slightly higher speeds, without signs of skidding. The braking system performs excellently, with vented disc brakes offering a linear pedal feel. During sudden braking, the car's forward pitching is minimal, and stopping distances are short.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 10.3L/100km. During actual test drives, it was around 12L in urban conditions and approximately 8.5L on highways. This is slightly higher than the previous 3.0T model's official 8.7L, but considering the increased power, this performance is acceptable. Noise control is well-executed – at idle, engine noise inside the cabin is virtually inaudible, and at highway speeds of 120km/h, wind noise and tire noise are not significant. Even at low volumes, the Burmester audio system can easily cover them.

The 2024 AMG GLC43 4Matic+ boasts prominent core advantages: greater power than the previous model, more comprehensive configurations, and increased space, while retaining AMG's sporty DNA. Compared to competitors in the same class, such as the BMW X3 M40i, its hybrid system is more fuel-efficient, and its interior luxury and features have superior advantages. Priced at RM 508,888, which is RM 37,000 more than the previous CKD model, it adds features like a mild hybrid system, a fully digital instrument cluster, HUD, Burmester sound system, and more. Its value for money is actually higher.

Overall, this car suits two types of users: first, young individuals who prioritize brand and driving experience – it can meet daily commuting needs while also delivering thrills during occasional mountain drives; second, luxury car buyers with family needs – it offers ample space and practical features, while the AMG badge maintains a prestigious image. If you're looking for a well-rounded luxury mid-size performance SUV, the 2024 AMG GLC43 4Matic+ is worth considering.