6 Mercedes-Benz GLC Class

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the 362bhp GLC 43, a performance SUV which “marks the pinnacle of the GLC product range”.

Set to make its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show this month, with a market launch beginning in June 2016, the GLC 43 4Matic is the range’s performance flagship, with the promise of a 4.9 second sprint to 62mph and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

Powered by a three-litre V6 biturbo V6 engine, the GLC 43 features a 9G-Tronic gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system configured to deliver 69% of torque to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions.

Tobias Moers, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, said: “With the new GLC 43 4MATIC we are offering an AMG model in the mid-size SUV segment for the first time.

“The new SUV from Affalterbach marks the pinnacle of the GLC product range and in the AMG portfolio it closes the gap between the GLA and GLE.”

Adaptive suspension and large 360mm front disc brakes (320mm rear) are among the other features designed to deliver on AMG’s performance-oriented credentials.

In styling terms the GLC 43 is distinguished ion the outside by AMG front and rear aprons and exhaust pipes, 19-ins five-spoke alloy wheels and a diamond effect radiator grille.

Inside red-stitched Artico man made leather, chequered flag styling within the instrument binnacle and an embossed flat-bottomed steering wheel are among the highlights.

Mercedes-AMG’s Dynamic Select transmission modes offer up Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual settings to hone the GLC 43 for dynamic or economical driving.

In the Eco setting a cylinder shut-off system and the ability to decouple gears and “coast” to preserve fuel combines with a start/stop system to deliver claimed fuel economy of 28.3mpg on the combined cycle and 189g/km CO2 emissions.

Prices for the GLC 43 4Matic have yet to be revealed.