Mercedes GLC buyer’s guide
You’ve read about facelifted car – here’s how to buy used
IT took Mercedes over 90 years to launch its first mainstream SUV, but when the G-Wagen arrived in 1979, it was still years ahead of the first 4x4s from other premium brands such as Audi, BMW and Volvo.
However, the G-Wagen was built as a true go-anywhere off-roader – and seriously compromised on-road. In the time that it took Mercedes to come up with a more roadbiased SUV, some rivals had stolen a march.
That car came in 1998 in the form of the ML-Class, forerunner to the current GLE. Below this sits the GLC – a car which, in firstgeneration (GLK) form, was never sold in the UK. We had to hold on until 2015 for a compact Mercedes SUV – but was it worth the wait?
History
THE first GLC SUVs arrived in the UK in September 2015. Only a 168bhp 220 d and 201bhp 250 d were available at first, both with a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine; trim levels were SE, Sport and AMG Line.
A year later a GLC Coupé was launched with the same engines, but by December 2016 both models were available in 350 d form, with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine; the GLC 43 AMG was also introduced, with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine.
For those who craved as much power as possible, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 S (standard SUV and Coupé) arrived in April 2017 with 470bhp and 503bhp. The next year, a GLC 250 petrol joined the range
A facelifted GLC will arrive shortly, in GLC 220 d and GLC 300 d forms, both with a 2.0litre four-cylinder diesel engine.
Which one?
DIESELS still make the most sense, with the four-cylinder units giving good performance and strong economy. If you can stretch to a six-cylinder, you’ll have effortless muscle without having to spend a fortune on fuel.
The petrol cars are nice enough, but cost far more to run thanks to their greater thirst, and road tax is higher on early models, too.
All GLCs are well equipped, with the SE featuring 17-inch alloys, a powered tailgate, reversing camera, DAB radio, privacy glass, automatic wipers, seven-inch display, keyless go and climate control. Sport adds power-fold door mirrors, park assist, 18-inch wheels, heated front seats and sat-nav. AMG Line has 19-inch alloys, sports suspension, body styling and artificial leather trim.
Alternatives
THE GLC faces stiff competition, including the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Both offer userfriendly cabins with excellent build quality, efficient engines and good performance.
If you’re considering a GLC Coupé, the closest rival is the BMW X4, which is easy to recommend for the same reasons as the X3.
Another tough adversary is the Land Rover Discovery Sport, which differs from
the two German models because it is available with seven seats.
Two other alternatives are the stylish Volvo XC60 and Jaguar F-Pace. Don’t overlook more value-oriented options, either, like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Verdict
THE Mercedes GLC was a long time coming, but this arguably gave its maker enough time to get it right first time. With its smart design, standard four-wheel drive and efficient engines, along with a very slick transmission, the GLC was a class act.
Like any car wearing the three-pointed star, it wasn’t a bargain and, going by our Driver Power survey, running costs are high, while reliability isn’t always everything it should be. But there are also plenty of owners who adore their GLCs thanks to the way it can effortlessly despatch long journeys, tow a caravan and accommodate a family of five with their luggage.
If you want a serious off-roader, look elsewhere, but if you need a capable carryall for the family, the GLC will do the job.