The new Mercedes GLC small SUV is designed for hybrid drive. The engine range has
four-cylinder petrol and diesel units combined with an electric motor.
Four of these are mild-hybrid units with a second-generation integrated starter-generator.
Three other engine variants are plug-in hybrid units with a system output of up to 245 kW
and a system torque of up to 750 Nm.
All the plug-in hybrids have an electric range of more than 100 kilometres.
Noticeably more electric driving experience: thanks to the electric range, day-to-day
distances can usually be covered all-electrically. The improved hybrid driving mode
provides electric driving mode for the most appropriate sections of the route. Electric
driving is prioritised on longer journeys in urban areas, for example.
The GLC has significantly improved on and off-road attributes for adverse weather
conditions and stretches with unsealed roads. These include simplified operation using the
off-road screen, clearer information thanks to the “transparent bonnet” and very good
traction and handling safety by virtue of improved control systems.
Mercedes GLC chassis has a new four-link front suspension and a multi-link independent
rear suspension. The AIRMATIC air suspension has variably adjustable damping for
compression and rebound.
New GLC offers optional rear-axle steering combined with a more direct steering ratio at
the front axle. The steering angle at the rear axle is up to 4.5 degrees. This reduces the
turning circle by 90 centimetres, to 10.9 metres. Which is pretty useful for getting into tight
spots in carparks. In shopping centres or under high-rise apartment buildings.
Styling sees the introduction of new headlamps which connect directly to the radiator grille
and accentuate the vehicle’s width. The grille has chrome surrounds on the standard
AVANTGARDE exterior.
Inside the dashboard is horizontally divided into two sections with a central display that
appears to float above it.
The drag coefficient of the new GLC is Cd is 0.29, which is two tenths better than its
predecessor (Cd of 0.31) which is a notable advance for an SUV with conventional drive.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is said to have. “a pleasantly quiet vehicle with a refined sound
signature and very low road and wind noise”. This is something that we will comment on
when the new GLC reaches us in Australia and we borrow one for a road test.
The voice assistant “Hey Mercedes” has is even more capable of dialogue and learning.
The MBUX Smart Home function turns the GLC into a mobile control centre for the home.
The MBUX system fully integrates all the major music streaming providers, including
personal preferences and settings.
The optional Burmester(r) surround sound system offers an excellent listening experience
with 15 premium speakers and a total output of 710 watts.
