The next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC is arriving in Australia this June, and pricing and specifications have been confirmed.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed pricing and specs for the newest version of its most popular model on sale. Just one Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 specification will be available initially before coupe and AMG models follow later. That sees the removal of the previous entry-spec GLC 200.
Pricing for the new GLC 300 model starts from $104,900 before on-road costs and is the first time the entry to the medium-size SUV starts at over $100,000. But there’s plenty more equipment and new technology fitted to the model.
Developed alongside the latest C-class, with which it shares a large part of its mechanical package and engine line-up, the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Jaguar F-pace rival is based on the latest incarnation of Mercedes-Benz’s MRA platform. It supports a more advanced electrical architecture than the platform used by its predecessor, providing the basis for a range of new features, including optional rear-wheel steering for the first time as well as the latest generation of driver assistance systems. The new GLC is underpinned by the same four-link front and multi-link rear suspension as the fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The styling of the new GLC is more evolutionary than revolutionary, with an appearance that updates the original with smoother surfacing and new detailing without straying too far from its predecessor.
Key exterior cues include a larger grille and a more prominent three-pointed star up front. The headlamps (optional with Mercedes-Benz’s Digital Light function in the Plus Package) are also reshaped, while the bumper gets greater structure than before.
The Plus Package is the only option alongside colour and wheel choices. It consists of MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation, GUARD 360 ° Vehicle Protection Plus, Burmester 3D surround sound system, additional driving assistance systems, DIGITAL LIGHT, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, and heat and noise-insulating acoustic glass. The package demands a $6900 premium.
Standard features on the model include 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, heated seats, electric adjust on the front chairs, AMG style pack, a large 11.9-inch infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. Mercedes-Benz says it has provided the new SUV with higher quality materials in a conscious bid to raise perceived luxury and comfort.
Powering the GLC 300 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 190 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque – an increase of 30 Nm over the outgoing model.
At 4716mm in length, 2075mm in width and 1650mm in height, the new GLC is 60mm longer, 21mm narrower and 4mm lower than its predecessor. It also receives a 15mm longer wheelbase at 2888mm. A long-wheelbase version of the new model is once again planned for the Chinese market, though details of its dimensions are yet to be revealed. Boot capacity has grown by 50-litres to a nominal 600-litres underneath the cargo blind at the rear.
Since the first generation of the luxury SUV was launched in 2015, Mercedes has seen global sales of the GLC grow to almost 2 million – one of the German car maker’s strongest selling models.