The Citizen (KZN)

A Merc to catch all eyes

The turbodiese­l mill has mild hybrid assistance. DITCH THE MOMMY WAGON AND CLIMB INTO ONE OF THESE BABES

- Jaco van der Merwe

Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) has completed the new GLC line-up with the introducti­on of two Coupe variants.

While the obvious difference between the convention­al and coupe models are the lower roofline and fastback-style rear fascia, the GLC Coupe is also only offered with diesel engine.

The 2.0-litre turbodiese­l mill with mild hybrid assistance produces 145kW of power and 440Nm of torque in the 220d and 198kW/500Nm in the 300d. The twist is sent to all four wheels via 9G Tronic transmissi­on.

The mild hybrid system combines an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48-volt on-board electrical system.

The system not only produces additional electrical boost of 17kW/23Nm but also assists the engine at lower speeds, resulting in lower fuel consumptio­n.

Mercedes claims the 220d will sip as little as 5.1 litres per 100km, with the 300d returning 5.5l/100km.

The 300d is said to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds with a top whack of 249km/h, with the 220d going from 0 to 100km/h in 8.1sec on its way to a top speed of 225km/h.

As with the convention­al GCL, the Coupe also offers the optional Engineerin­g Package, which includes air suspension and rear-active steering of up to 4.5 degrees.

At speeds below 60km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction as the front wheels to reduce the turning circle, while the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels at speeds over 60km/h to keep the car more stable.

“Mercedes-Benz South Africa offers a progressiv­e SUV line-up that appeals to every facet of the market,” says Alex Boavida, MBSA vice-president sales and marketing.

“The latest GLC SUV has already impressed automotive media and customers alike and the GLC Coupe aims to elevate that sentiment even more.

“A dynamic design, a host of standard features and the latest technology have culminated to form this head-turning beauty.

“This GLC commands the attention of those around it and we are very excited to introduce it into the market.”

Mercedes claims the headroom for rear passengers does not decrease, in spite of the sloping roofline, while boot space is up from 500 to 545 litres.

Similar to its sibling, the GLC Coupe comes standard in avantgarde exterior trim which includes 18–inch alloy wheels and chrome package.

The Mercedes-Benz pattern is standard on the front grille cover, while the rear is accentuate­d by two-part tail light.

Inside, the convention­al GLC’s design is carried over to the Coupe, with the highlight being the 12.3-inch digital cluster along with 11.9-inch infotainme­nt system which offers the latest MBUX version.

Out on the road, the GLC Coupe is every bit as refined as its sibling. Smooth diesel power and gear changes, a plush suspension and ridiculous­ly easy handling remind you why these cars are offered at seven-figure price tags.

If the convention­al GLC is too mommy wagon for you, the sexy curves of the Coupe is just the thing to break the mould.

 ?? ??
 ?? ??
 ?? ??
 ?? ??
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from South Africa