Mercedes-Benz Glc Class

Mercedes Benz GLC

The GLC sits in the Mercedes Benz sport utility vehicle (SUV) range in third place; the two bigger, more luxurious siblings above. It’s the German brand’s biggest selling SUV in the same way that the C-Class saloon is the most favoured by buyers. It’s a good size with seating for five and there’s also an interesting coupé version for drivers who like a more sporting design. Full-blown AMG variants add more power to the package.

The Exterior

The GLC SUV has a sporty appearance, more so perhaps on the coupé, with chrome design elements and distinctive lines that run from the front to the rear end. The front gives the impression of presence thanks in part to the standard-fit LED High-Performance headlamps with daytime running lights. The heavily contoured radiator grille with the dynamically shaped double louvres and the diamond lattice reinforce this. Aerodynamic wheels with diameters ranging from 17” to 19” and tyres with optimised rolling resistance are model dependent.

Adding AMG-Line trim emphasises the dynamic appearance of the GLC – with the chromed diamond grille and the front apron with the AMG-specific design as well as with angular exhaust tips integrated into the bumper. The standard-fit LED High-Performance headlamps are smaller and more raked, and have significantly modified contours: A full-LED headlamp with 'multibeam' technology is optionally available.

The Interior

Refined materials and precision workmanship are what characterise Mercedes Benz cars and the GLC is no exception. The centre console features an elegant trim component, which is available in piano lacquer finish or one of two wood surface finishes, depending upon the model. Leather seats are standard and there’s a multifunction steering wheel too, all adding to a really classy interior.

Front seat passengers get plenty of headroom and space thanks to seats that slide far back. Storage space up front is impressive, with large, capacious door pockets, good-sized central cupholders and plenty of room under the armrest and in the glovebox. In the back there’s more than enough head and leg room for two+ adults. An optional panoramic roof may be available on new or used Mercedes Benz GLC models.

Every GLC gets a 10.3” colour infotainment screen with satellite navigation. The screen is mounted high on the dashboard and is controlled by touch or by using a touchpad that’s mounted between the front seats. This touchpad is duplicated in miniature on the steering wheel. Voice operation is also available, great for when a firm hold on the steering is required. The excellent MBUX system menus are easy to navigate and the graphics are pin sharp. AMG Line Premium trim adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and also augmented reality to the navigation system; this overlays arrows and text onto a video feed of the road; a helpful addition.

Driving The Mercedes Benz GLC

For potential buyers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya and New Zealand, the GLC is equipped with the dynamic body control suspension with infinitely adjustable dampers for the front and rear axle. Depending on the driving situation, speed and condition of the road, the damping is controlled individually for each wheel in interaction with the engine, transmission and steering characteristics, thus improving handling. The Dynamic Select switch offers three selectable stages: The two stages ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport +’ deliver a firmer set-up of the damper characteristics, while ‘Comfort’ mode settles things down for smooth progress.

There are three choices of engine: A 2.0 litre petrol and a 2.0 litre diesel that's available with two power outputs, all of four-cylinders and with Stop/Start, all driving through a nine-speed automatic gearbox. New technology ensures that emissions are lowered over earlier models and fuel consumption is improved. Combined with the brand’s 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLC is capable of tackling all surfaces.

The vehicle is loaded with safety kit, much of which also appears on other cars in the Mercedes range. Thanks to this attention to detail, this SUV gets the full five stars for safety.

Is It Reliable?

The Mercedes-Benz GLC reliability promises to be excellent. All of the engines and gearboxes are used throughout the rest of the current range and have proved their worth. If a larger seven-seat SUV is not needed, the GLC makes for a great choice for the smaller family. Check out the availability here at MHH International.