A towering SUV. If you think it can’t run, you’re mistaken. It dominates the Yongin Speedway with its powerful engine. This is none other than Mercedes’ high-performance SUV, the ‘Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC’ and ‘Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC.’ I met these two at the AMG Speedway in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do on the 16th.
The first one I encountered was the ‘Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC (hereafter GLC 43).’ The GLC 43 is the high-performance version of the third-generation GLC that was launched last July and settled in the domestic market last April. The vertical grille on the front gives off a strong AMG aura.
With dimensions of 4,750 x 1,920 x 1,640 mm, the dynamic roof line of the GLC, extending from the A-pillar to the D-pillar, dramatically transforms the urban landscape. The 12.3-inch driver’s LCD instrument panel and 11.9-inch center display are separate. I felt a lingering disappointment that they weren’t merged into a single, curved display. However, convenience features like a digital key, MBUX augmented reality navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Mercedes Me digital app are all included.
The steering response is heavy and smooth, like a high-performance sports car. The entrance to the track is narrow. I carefully passed through the tight section in comfort mode. When navigating the narrow passage of the speedway cautiously, the 360-degree surround view illuminated the surroundings, preparing for any potential safety incidents. Additionally, the rear axle steering that allows up to 2.5 degrees of rear wheel steering helps the GLC 43 glide smoothly through the tight bends of the speedway.
With a maximum output of 421 horsepower and a maximum torque of 51 kg.m, the inline 4-cylinder 2.0-liter AMG engine (M139) teams up with the AMG Speedshift 9-speed MCT transmission. The serious track driving begins in sports mode. The sound of a child’s singing turns into heavy metal. It produces a rough engine sound.
Claiming the highest horsepower of any existing 2.0-liter engine at 421 horsepower, the GLC 43 moves swiftly across the speedway like a finely-tuned blade. Featuring a 48-volt mild hybrid system, it boosts efficiency by supplementing an additional output of 14 horsepower while maintaining agility.
The GLC 43 runs the total 1.6km half-course, known for having the most hairpins. The GLC 43 gracefully navigates through the slippery and fluctuating hairpin sections without losing stability, gliding through effortlessly. While a regular SUV might sway side to side, the GLC 43’s AMG bucket seats firmly hold the driver in place, allowing for stable circuit driving.
Next, I got behind the wheel of the ‘Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC’ (hereafter GLB 35). As the high-performance version of the GLB launched in December last year, it settled into the domestic market this March.
As a GLB AMG model, there are no significant differences in appearance. If there is a difference, it is the vertical grille that denotes the AMG and the large star inside it.
With dimensions of 4,750 x 1,920 x 1,640 mm, it is relatively small in the Mercedes-AMG SUV lineup but has the size of a mid-sized SUV. The wheelbase of 2,830 mm is 15 mm longer than that of the domestic mid-large SUV Sorento, which has a wheelbase of 2,815 mm. After sitting in the second row, there is enough space for two fists in front of the knees and two fists above the head. The center tunnel is at finger height. Even sitting in the middle of the second row provides two fist spaces above the head, ensuring comfort doesn’t become a concern. The GLB 35 offers a dual character of being a family car that everyone can enjoy while also delivering sports car-like performance.
The GLB 35 features a connected driver’s instrument panel and center display. This unified interface enhances the driver’s focus while driving. The AMG bucket seats hold the body securely during the twists and turns of the track.
With a maximum output of 306 horsepower and a maximum torque of 40.8 kg.m, the 4-cylinder 2-liter gasoline engine (M260) works in tandem with the AMG Speedshift DCT 8-speed transmission. Moreover, the 48-volt mild hybrid system increases efficiency by providing an additional output of 14 horsepower at high speeds.
The steering response of the GLB 35 is lighter but still heavy and smooth compared to the GLC 43. Like any AMG model, the driving modes can be toggled via a dial beneath the steering wheel, including Individual, Sports, Sports Plus, and Comfort. In Sports mode, the harmonic engine sound flowing from the hood raises the driver’s adrenaline.
Both the GLC 43 and GLB 35 are equipped with AMG Ride Control suspension. The AMG Ride Control suspension automatically adjusts damping based on the driving mode and the terrain. Thanks to the AMG Ride Control suspension, I was able to experience both comfort and dynamism while driving the GLC 43 and GLB 35 on the circuit.
This demonstrates the shift from traditional 2-door sports cars to 4-door sedans, and now high-performance models taking center stage in SUVs with the GLC 43 and GLB 35 leading the way.
The test vehicles are priced at 99.6 million won for the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC and 77.1 million won for the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr
