Mercedes-Benz have revealed their all-new popular SUV, the GLC. The Stuttgart-based firm says that the new GLC is more dynamic, powerful and most importantly, more sustainable.
Exterior Design
Up front, the GLC has been redesigned in quite a smart manner. Notably, the LED headlamps are slimmer and now connect to the redesigned radiator grille directly. AMG Line models will feature a radiator grille with a Mercedes-Benz pattern. More advanced Digital Light headlamps which feature active ground lighting, will be optionally available on the premium SUV.
Precisely shaped edges on the sides and muscular wheel arches make up the side profile of the new GLC. AMG Line models receive color-coded wheel arches as standard, with running-boards and the Night Package available as optional extras. The new taillights feature a two-section design and include a handle strip finished in high-gloss black which emphasizes the width of the rear end.
Interior Design
The all-new interior which has been carried over from the S-Class and C-Class finds its way in the GLC. Greeting the driver is a high-resolution LCD digital instrument display which measures 12.3-inches. The portrait-style infotainment display which is angled slightly towards the driver, measures 11.9-inches. A head-up display is available as an optional extra. Featured in the infotainment system is the second-generation of MBUX which has seen great strides in software and hardware. The "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant has become more interactive and capable of learning by means of activating online services in the Mercedes Me App.
As is the case in the C-Class, the door center panels up front serve various purposes. They may be used as a grab or closing handle, an arm rest and housing the electric window controls. Above the door center panel is where the door handles and seat adjustment controls are located.
Engine Line-Up
The mild-hybrid model range will consist of the following engines and power outputs:
GLC 200 4MATIC - This model will be powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 150kW and 320Nm of torque. An additional 17kW and 200Nm of torque will be on offer thanks to the integrated starter generator. The ISG will be fitted to all mild-hybrid models.
GLC 300 4MATIC - This model will also be powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine however producing 190kW and 400Nm of torque in this application.
GLC 220d 4MATIC - This model will be powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel motor capable of 145kW and 440Nm of torque.
GLC 300d 4MATIC - Rounding up the mild hybrid model range is the GLC 300d 4MATIC which will be powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine however it will produce 198kW and 550Nm of torque in this application.
All models will be paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
A choice of three plug-in hybrids will be on offer and they will consist of the following:
GLC 300e 4MATIC
GLC400e 4MATIC
GLC 300de 4MATIC
All plug-in hybrid models will feature a 31.2kWh battery with over 110km of claimed WLTP range on electric power alone.
We expect the all-new luxury SUV to make its way to South Africa in 2023. Updates on local pricing and specification will be available closer to launch date.