Mercedes-Benz has updated its popular GLC SUV with a fresh look, new engine range and a wide array of the latest technology.
It’s a model that it’s crucial for Mercedes to get right. Britta Seeger, Daimler Group’s member of the board for sales and marketing said: ‘Since the first generation, we’ve sold 2.6 million. It’s the most important car in our line-up.’
The biggest news is that every engine in the GLC’s range is now electrified, even if half of that range consists of mild hybrids. There are three plug-in hybrids promised, though, with some big e-range claims to go with it.
What’s new for the Mercedes GLC?
Just like the last model, this GLC is heavily based on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class – itself recently updated with a new model. Like Merc’s small saloon, the latest GLC benefits from a complete redesign that nonetheless looks very similar to what came before, with clean surfaces and smooth edges. Mercedes says the new GLC has a drag coefficient of 0.29Cd – that’s a two-tenths improvement over its predecessor which should improve efficiency.
Inside, it’s a similar story to the C-Class, too. The interior has a central portrait-oriented infotainment screen that rises up the dashboard at an angle. It’s slightly angled towards the driver and controls everything from sat-nav to climate.
The new GLC is 60mm longer than its predecessor with a wheelbase that’s 15mm longer to improve passenger space, with the biggest benefit being boot volume. That rises to 600 litres (which is 50 more than before.)
What engine options will there be?
It’s unconfirmed what engines are coming to the UK yet, but three mild hybrids (MHEV) and three plug-in hybrids (PHEV) – two petrol-based, one diesel-based – have been announced. Here’s the engine range:
- GLC 200: 2.0-litre petrol MHEV, 201bhp, 28.6-32.2mpg
- GLC 300: 2.0-litre petrol MHEV, 254bhp, 28.6-32.2mpg
- GLC 220d: 2.0-litre diesel MHEV, 194bhp, 39.8-45.2mpg
- GLC 300e: 2.0-litre petrol PHEV, 309bhp, 294-392mpg
- GLC 400e: 2.0-litre petrol PHEV, 376bhp, 294-392mpg
- GLC 300de: 2.0-litre diesel PHEV, 328bhp, 336-470mpg
All GLC models feature 4Matic all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic gearbox. The plug-in hybrids look particularly attractive, as Mercedes claims they’ll go more than 62 miles on battery power alone – an impressive figure and one that should really up their dual-purpose credentials.
As for versions from AMG, none have been announced yet but expect the GLC to feature powertrains similar to the C43 and upcoming C63 – both of which have four-cylinder plug-in hybrid power.
What clever tech is there?
Mercedes says technology like its augmented-reality head-up display – that first debuted on the S-Class – will be available, and so will specialised driving tech such as rear-wheel steering. So-called ‘Digital’ lights can be optioned, too, which display guide markings and warnings onto the road using the headlights, much like Audi’s Digital Matrix LEDs.
The brand is also keen to show just how capable the new GLC is with a new ‘transparent bonnet’ camera system similar to Land Rover’s technology, allowing you to see what’s ahead of you more accurately when you’re off-road by using its camera systems to display the road (or track) ahead. Merc’s new GLC also has some technology to assist when a trailer is attached, with a new trailer menu in the MBUX system that includes a trailer-specific route planner.
When can I buy a new GLC?
Mercedes says the new GLC will go on sale in Europe in September 2022, with the US and Chinese market openings coming later on. Prices aren’t confirmed, but expect a small increase over comparative previous generation models, and a much-expanded equipment list.
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