Successor to the GLK, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is an SUV based on the C-Class Saloon. Two iterations in and the fight is taken directly to competitors BMW (X3), Audi (Q3) and Volvo (XC60).
There are some interesting variants included in the lineup, including the GLC Coupe, the AMG GLC 63, and Mercedes have also just released details of an AMG GLC 43 with updated styling and 385hp. No news yet on when the GLC 350e 4Matic plug-in hybrid will be available. Using a turbocharged 2.0-liter/4-cylinder engine and an electric motor, total system output is 320 hp and it will have 413 lb-ft of torque. All GLC’s use the MBUX system with touch screen and haptic touch feedback. The GLC’s MBUX is displayed on a floating screen in the 220d, as opposed to the latest in the range which have the fully integrated touch screens within the dash.
A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder powers the GLC 220d. Building 194 bhp through a 9-speed automatic transmission, with standard rear-wheel drive or optional 4Matic all-wheel drive.
The Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive system works in the background to assist the driver in as smooth a journey as possible. For example, traffic assist kicked in on the M50 which advised the driver, within a short distance, of a traffic jam on the M1. It warned of the danger of slowing traffic ahead, allowing the driver enough time to safely change route if needed. The best example I’ve seen of this technology so far.
The Agility Control suspension, configured for ride comfort, comes as standard. Also available as an option: 4MATIC all-wheel drive and Dynamic Body Control suspension with steel springs and adjustable damping. As you would expect of a Mercedes, it’s very comfortable and easy to live with. The Dynamic driving mode works quite well with this 220d, selecting Sport on good B-Roads generates an unexpected grin and is at its peak in the mid-range. The engine is a little coarse when pushed, it’s slow from the start but shines in the mid range and is at it’s most enjoyable to drive here.
There are a multitude of options available with the GLC, the Parking package with 360 camera is simple to activate and effective. The GLC itself is easy to maneuver and parking is a breeze with the reverse camera and generally good visibility all round. The parking package is best saved only for those who really don’t score well with spatial awareness. It’s easy to operate, with a blue ‘P’arking engage symbol on the dash indicating when the system is operating. You then drive along to the spot in question, engage the parking system, indicate and throttle gently into place.
You can also spec an optional Burmester stereo which consists of 13 high-performance speakers, Frontbass technology, and a 9-channel DSP amplifier with a output of 590 watts. This helps dampen the gruff diesel rumble when it’s audible, which isn’t often.
The GLC is mainly about the comfort, from the optional Air Body Control to the Energizing Pack, it wants to get you to your destination in the most relaxed state you can be while operating heavy machinery.
Special mention : The tailgate pack is invaluable if you use the boot space often. The rear seats fold flat quickly and easily with a flick of a button in the boot. Live traffic information works brilliantly.
Needs work : The touch screen for the MBUX isn’t integrated, similar to previous generations of the in car entertainment, it’s floating out from the dash. In the most up to date versions, you get a flat integrated touch screen with a choice of dimensions.
Specs:
| Max Power 194 bhp | Diesel / Auto |
| 0-100 km/h in 7.9s | Road Tax € 200.00 |
| GLC from €48,040
Model as specc’d €62,487 |
Boot Space 580-1,150 litres |