Ford Fiesta vs Mercedes-AMG GLC43

What's the difference?

The original Ford Fiesta ST from 2013 was a modern classic. The combination of appealing pricing, point-and-shoot driving dynamics and a sweet turbocharged engine ensured it won a legion of fans. 

Its follow-up from 2020 continued that formula and brought with it a refinement missing from the original. But it was just as fun to drive.

Ford has launched a mid-life update for the sprightly hot hatch, which despite arriving in Australia halfway through 2022, is still officially an MY22 model. This latest version introduces upgrades to interior tech and exterior styling, as well as a 30Nm bump in torque.

But given it’s facing a ballsy competitor from Hyundai, has Ford done enough to keep its B-segment hot hatch crown?

If you’re looking for a performance SUV, I want to introduce you to the recently launched Mercedes-AMG GLC43. The GLC43 has a new engine, new outputs and sees some major changes to its underpinnings and tech.

It competes against the BMW X3 M40i, Audi SQ5 and Porsche Macan S; all exceptional sports performance SUVs with cult followings.

Fans will be enthralled by the GLC43's new engine but I'm testing this new variant to see if it has what it takes to woo families, as well.