Moving forward with a range of SUV vehicles, Mercedes Benz is putting its money behind the GLC model. Luxury lifestyle with bold appearance and plenty of digitalisation and driving performance.
For the South African market, we will start with the GLC 220d, GLC 300d and the GLC 300, all enhanced by mild-hybrid technology. The Avantgarde exterior is fitted with the chrome package including chrome window surrounds and chrome under guard. New radiator grille with headlamp connected directly to the grille to emphasise the vehicles width. 18-inch to 20-inch wheels with several design and finished alloys can be chosen ex-factory. Exterior options are easy-entry running boards and Night package. Chrome is continued onto the rear under guard and simulated chrome-look tailpipes.
Inside cries sporty luxury with a clearly structured dashboard, 12.3 inch (31.2cm) high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver appears to float freely. The 11.9 inch (20.2cm) central display rises seamlessly and without joints from the centre console. Both the dash and the screen are slightly angled towards the driver.
Seat design plays with layers of contoured surfaces, the head restraints connect with the backrest, a new design. The AMG line has a leather-lined dashboard with Nappa-look beltlines and is an option on the Avantgarde.
A length of 4 716mm its 60mm longer that its predecessor. Track widths have increased by 6mm at the front, and 23mm at the rear. (Width 1,890mm, no change, as before). Luggage capacity of 620 litres, 70 litres improved on the previous model and the EASY-PACK tailgate is standard opening and closing using a button on the ignition key.
The new GLC is available with a new panoramic sunroof and roller blind as an optional extra. Standard equipment has also been upgraded for example large displays, smartphone integration with wireless charging.
Latest assistance systems to support the driver include Active Distance Assist, Active Steering Assist (360 – degree camera) Emergency Braking Assist, Active Parking assist, Downhill Speed regulation, and the usual ABS etc.
All models only come in the mild- hybrid format with 48-volt technology and a 2.0 ltr petrol or diesel engine. The GLC 200d produces 145kW at 3 600 rpm and 440 Nm at 1 800 – 2 800 rpm. Fuel consumption is at 5.9/5.2 l/100 and acceleration is 8.0s 0-100 km/hr with a top speed of 219 km/hr.
The GLC 300d increases these numbers to 198 kW at 4 200 rmp, 550 Nm at 1 800-2 800 rpm, 6.1/5.5 L/100 km and acceleration of 6.3s with 243 km/hr top speed. Lastly the GLC 300 achieves 190 kW at 5 800 rpm, 400Nm at 1 800-2 800 rmp. 8.2/7.3 l/100 km and 6.2s 0-100 km and a top speed of 240 km/hr.
The Retail Price has only been announced for two of the models, the GLC 220d being R1 211 220 and the GLC 300d at R1 410 194. The GLC 300 is still to be confirmed. Pricing includes a 5-year/100 000 km PremiumDrive Platinum service and maintenance plan as well as CO2 tax .
