Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC

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BMW X3 M50 xDrive

The GLC has a curved shape, while the X3 has an edgy look

BMW X3 M50 xDrive — Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC

The Mercedes-Benz GLC, which boasts a diverse lineup of SUVs, is now more popular than the C-Class. The high-performance version, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC, went on sale in Japan in January 2024. Its impressive exterior features include a front grille with AMG-exclusive vertical louvers, an AMG emblem on the hood, additional openings, and aerodynamic parts.

The X3 will undergo a full model change into its fourth generation in 2024, and its performance model, the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, has been introduced in Japan. The two cars are rivals as German-made SUVs, but they are almost identical in size. However, while the GLC 43 makes extensive use of curves, the X3 has an edgy, straight-line appearance, making the two cars contrasting in terms of exterior design.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC

Body size = Length 4750mm x Width 1920mm x Height 1640mm

Wheelbase = 2890mm

Vehicle weight = 1970kg

Tire size = 265/45R20 (front), 295/40R20 (rear)

BMW X3 M50 xDrive

Body size = Length 4755mm x Width 1920mm x Height 1660mm

Wheelbase = 2865mm

Vehicle weight = 2000kg

Tire size = 255/45R20 (front), 285/40R20 (rear)

GLC 43 with sharp acceleration power thanks to electric turbo

The GLC 43 4MATIC uses a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, downsized from the previous model, with a new F1-derived technology, the “electric exhaust gas turbocharger.” The maximum output exceeds that of the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder gasoline turbo in the X3 M50 xDrive by 40 PS and 60 Nm.

While the GLC 43 4MATIC boasts sharp response thanks to its electric turbo, the X3 has a unique appeal: a smooth engine feel that can only be experienced with a large-displacement straight-six engine.

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline + electric turbo

Displacement = 1991cc

Engine maximum output = 421PS/6750rpm

Engine maximum torque = 500Nm/5000rpm

Motor maximum output = 14PS

Motor maximum torque = 58Nm

Transmission = Electronically controlled 9-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

BMW X3 M50 xDrive

Engine type = Inline 6-cylinder gasoline turbo + 48V mild hybrid

Displacement = 2997cc

Maximum output = 381PS/5500rpm

Maximum torque = 540Nm/1900-4800rpm

Transmission = Electronically controlled 8-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

The latest F1-derived technology and a luxurious interior

Both cockpits feature a 12.3-inch digital meter display combined with a large center display. The interior of the GLC 43 4MATIC, which incorporates Mercedes-AMG’s latest design language, has a futuristic feel with chrome parts placed throughout. The X3 M50 xDrive features a sporty interior with the latest BMW curved display at its center.

Both cars are from AMG and BMW M, and both have received feedback from motorsports, but the GLC 43 4MATIC is nearly 2 million yen more expensive. If you want cutting-edge technology like an electric turbo and the luxurious interior space that is characteristic of AMG, then the GLC 43 4MATIC is the one for you. However, the X3 M50 xDrive certainly has its own appeal, such as the primitive engine feel that can only be experienced with a straight-six engine.