Mercedes ‘C’s what you want in an SUV
When thinking of mainstream luxury vehicles, two options usually spring to mind first: Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
There are other contenders, such as Volvo and Acura. Mercedes created the GLC class to compete with entries such as the BMW X3, Volvo XC60 and Acura RDX.
As Mercedes’ best-seller since the recently chart-topping C-class sedan has dropped ever so slightly, the GLC is a standout in the Mercedes lineup. It really is a C-class, but in SUV form. The recently discontinued, boxy GLK was not what Mercedes was looking for as sales were disappointing, due to the GWagen-like smaller appearance. Mercedes had to regroup, and the GLC was born.
Consumers like to sit up high while enjoying the ride of a sedan, so limiting body roll and maintaining cargo space have been buyer priorities. In the luxury category, the GLC delivers those goals — the ride is cloudlike and sedan-worthy; you almost forget you are in an SUV.
Four years after launch and on its first mid-generation redesign, the new GLC gets a tweaked grille, reshaped front and rear fascias, and sleeker headlights with standard LEDs. Inside, the 10.25-inch touchscreen and various touchpads are user-friendly, while voice assistance is great. The Voice Assistant was really smooth and easy to use, whereas many competitors have systems that are overly complex and difficult to implement.
Powering the tested GLC300 4MATIC was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 hp, 14 more horses than previously. Zero-to-60 mph came at 6.1 seconds, with 273 lb.-ft. of torque. Five driving modes are available, from Eco to Sport+. We enjoyed the Comfort mode the best, which provided an optimal user experience without compromising the ride. Rear-wheel-drive is standard on the GLC; the tester had all-wheel-drive (4MATIC), which only costs $2,000 more. The nine-speed automatic transmission was smooth and effortless and had paddle-shifters for bumping up or down a gear when Sport+ mode was activated.
Priced right and looking good, the GLC is a solid match for consumers in the luxury SUV market.