When I saw this press release come through, my first thought was, “oh, another Mercedes Benz SUV”. There just seems to be so many models. There probably isn’t, but it sure feels that way.
But then I started to read the specs of the new GLC. It had my attention! Sexy, small SUV looks? Check. Nine-speed auto? Check. A 2.0 litre 4-cylinder petrol version that gets to 100km/h in 7.3 second? Oh, yeah.
Apparently, “the design philosophy behind the new GLC essentially favours sensual purity and a modern aesthetic over the classic off-road look”. While I’m not 100% with it favouring sensual purity (!), I think it just looks good. Those good looks do help give it a Cd of just 0.31, not bad for an SUV.
According to MB, the interior also combines sensual purity, this time with “dynamic sportiness”. I have to agree with sensual purity here – check out that interior! Just look at that curved “open-pore wood trim” on the console. I think it gives it more sensual purity than I can handle. This is an interior I could get easily used to.
The 2.1L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel model of the GLC puts out 125Kw of power and a decent 400NM of torque. Even this base GLC220 diesel model at $89,900 comes with electric front seats, keyles start, 4-MATIC permanent all wheel drive, EASY-PACK tailgate and a 360-degree camera. Nice.
The petrol-engined GLC250 model produces 155Kw and 350Nm of torque, from 1200rpm. The GLC250d is powered by the same 2.1L diesel-turbo, but manages to pump out 150kw and 500Nm of torque. These two GLC250 models add 20″ wheels, leather, privacy glass and the Driver Assistance Package Plus.
Good work has been done to make sure there is plenty of cargo space. Behind the rear seats is 580 litres of space, with a total usable space of 1600 litres.
As you would expect with Mercedes Benz, safety is well covered. All models have 9 air bags, Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Blind Spot Assist. The GLC 250 models add Steering Assist, Pre-Safe Brake, Cross Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Land Keeping Assist. That’s a lot of assistance right there.
The GLCs have the option of air suspension, with the ability to raise the ride height by 50mm should you need it. Other benefits include reduced body roll, automatic level control and lowering of the load compartment for ease of loading.
Needless to say this is a great addition to the Mercedes Benz range.
GLC 220D: $89,00
GLC 250: $94,00
GLC 250d: $96,900