dejongj

Finally there is a review, including new actual images of a UK car on current UK vehicle registration plates. I think they actually had the car instead of writing an opinion piece.

I'm slightly surprised it was them doing the first one but hey perhaps now they are starting to come out.

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mercede...43-2016-review

dejongj

Seeing the pictures in White, I can't say that I am keen on those wheel arch extenders in black plastic. To me it was one of the motivators to go for a obsidian black model as in any other color I think it looks too much like an afterthought. It would have been better if they just had different body panels.

speedeye

GLC43 looks rather tame with 19" wheels, and the "extenders" seem unnecessary. If you opt for 20" or 21" wheels (as most of us will), front tires are 20mm wider (255 vs 235) and rear tires are 30mm wider (285 vs 255).

cldriver

Agree, prob come body colored in a few years when mid-life refresh occurs.

FrostyZoob

The 19" wheels are not an option in the US market. (Unfortunately, IMO.)

dejongj

I agree - although I would have liked the comfort and pricing of new tires for the standard 19" option, I did think they didn't fit the car. And as the 21" was only a £1151 option (guess that is nearly the same in US Dollars these days :P) and air suspension is standard I thought it was a no brainer.

I'm a little concerned about their remarks on B roads, as that is where we live. Country lanes and B roads. But then again I always saw this as a fast SUV and not a hatchback. I've already got a fast hatchback in the form of my Golf R. But we will see.

gobiman

I have to say I disagree entirely.
- I like the standard 19 wheels, dislike the multi-spoke 20s (look too after-market imho)
- do like the 21s
- however prefer comfort, replacement cost and discretion
- would happily get rid of my "extenders" which are simply pieces of plastic
- I will also debadge and very happy for it to be mistaken for a 220d
Each to his (or her) own!

Toobad

Haha, I debadged my 220d and even painted my brake calipers red in the hope of being mistaken for the then soon-to-be-released 43. As the red calipers were a no show I will now pin my hopes on being mistaken for a 63 when that arrives.

dejongj

@toobad @gobiman you too should just switch cars and you'll be both happy

Me? I'm quite happy to have mine fast and loud

gobiman

Very happy with the fast bit - just don't want to be too loud.
There is a practical reason. It will have to spend some time parked on the street in Chelsea - which seems to be the centre of SUV theft in the UK.

dejongj

To be fair if they want it then they will take it. And as you know there are many many many much more valuable and special cars in an borough like Chelsea. Afterall it is only a £50K car. Ultimately that is what insurance is for, mine is quoted at £356 fully comprehensive, and replacement GAP insurance at only £180. You can't stop them, I honestly wouldn't worry about it.

I had the same kind of comments on the VW Golf R forums (which is our second card), people were so worried about what is just a £28K car.

I left my GL AMG anywhere and anytime in London including south of the river which is much more challenging , or anywhere else in Europe without any worry whatsoever.

If they want it, just take it, but make certain I don't get it back