Mercedes-AMG pumps up the GLC 43 with Edition R

Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has an exclusive new offering in the GLC 43 Edition R. It’s available in both SUV and Coupé guises; and strictly in limited numbers.

This Edition R trim builds on the standard Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC, upping the ante with a mix of AMG performance gear and motorsport-inspired styling. 

GLC 43 Edition R Design: stealth meets sport

From the outside, the Edition R gets matte black 21-inch AMG Y-spoke wheels that are aerodynamically optimised with red AMG brake calipers in behind. The darkened grille, badges and trim elements come courtesy of the Night Package II.

Underneath, the Edition R benefits from the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package – now standard. That means dynamic engine mounts, sharper driving programs including a new ‘RACE’ mode, and dialled-up handling through AMG’s RIDE CONTROL suspension and rear-axle steering.

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Interior: race-ready refinement

Step inside and you’re greeted with a cockpit that blends performance cues with luxury textures. The Edition R’s AMG Performance Seat Package Advanced brings contoured ARTICO and MICROCUT microfibre seats in black, stitched in contrast red and matched with racing-style red seatbelts.

A metal-structure trim finish exclusive to the Edition R adds visual edge and there is a performance steering wheel in nappa leather and MICROCUT microfibre. Audiophiles will appreciate the immersive Burmester 3D sound system, while petrolheads will enjoy the AMG Real Performance Sound.

What’s under the bonnet?

Powering the Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 Edition R is the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine found in the regular GLC 43, boosted by a 48-volt mild hybrid system. That pairing delivers a muscular 310kW and 500Nm, enough to send the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 4.8 seconds. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission and active rear-axle steering add to the dynamic mix.

Tech-rich and feature-packed

Edition R doesn’t just focus on performance. It retains all the tech-laden luxury of the standard GLC 43, including smartphone integration, wireless charging, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera system, and the clever Transparent Bonnet view.

Price and Availability

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 Edition R SUV is priced at $146,500 which includes all on road costs, while the Coupé variant comes in at $152,600. Both versions are available to order now, but Benz NZ says numbers are limited.