Mercedes-amg GLC 43 Coupé

FIRST DRIVE Performance coupé-suv is an acquired taste

Our Merc double is completed by twin-turbo coupé-suv

A REAL AMG, says AMG boss Tobias Moers, is for those who covet “driving pleasure”. That’s undeniable, and in fairness the 362bhp 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine in the GLC 43 isn’t exactly paltry; it’s just that we’ve become accustomed to AMGS with huge numbers associated with them.

We’ve already driven the regular AMG GLC 43, and this Coupé version commands a premium of just over £3,000. Many might consider that a big price to pay for what is essentially a less practical version with identical performance. The hit on practicality is particularly noticeable with the letter boxstyle view out of the rear window, too.

The AMG 43 can’t offer the fireworks of a V8, but it’s shouty enough to remind you that it wears an AMG badge on the bootlid. The 4.9-second 0-62mph time is nothing to be embarrassed about, either; nor is the 155mph top speed. In fact, despite its size, the GLC 43 shares the same swift performance that’s evident everywhere else this engine has been used.

There’s pace, then, with an exciting exhaust note and a four-wheel-drive system that’s set up to be rear-biased in its power delivery. The GLC 43 certainly feels more rear-wheel drive than most of its rivals. But a Porsche Macan driver will have more fun thanks to sharper steering and neater handling.

The nine-speed transmission is the weak link in what’s otherwise a fine package. Sure, there’s a bit of blare from the exhaust on the motorway, but if you don’t like that there are plenty of other choices that’ll suit – including the regular AMG Line in GLC 250 d form.

AMG’S revisions also incorporate changes to the three-chamber air suspension, which, even in its most taut settings, gives the GLC Coupé a decent ride. The GLC 43 Coupé won’t suit everyone – but that’s kind of the point of it in the first place.