Mercedes-Benz has launched the all-new GLC, with prices starting at Rs 73.50 lakh for the petrol '300' variant and Rs 74.50 lakh for the diesel '220d' variant. The premium SUV receives upgrades to the platform, drivetrains, interior architecture, and levels of luxury on offer. The previous generation GLC was Mercedes-Benz's best-selling SUV in India, and the new model should be able to live up to the same potential. You can read our review of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC here.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is a handsome SUV that borrows stylistic cues from the EQ range. It is longer than the outgoing GLC by 60mm, and the wheelbase has grown by 15mm, while the front and rear track widths have increased as well. It also sits higher by 20mm and rides on stunning 19-inch alloy wheels. The front fascia gets LED lighting and an impressive-looking grille, while the bumper gets a chrome skid plate. When viewed from the side, the GLC has stronger character lines and a higher stance. The rear end gets a chrome surround for the dual exhaust and LED tail lights.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior is incredibly lavish, with plenty of leather, wood, and soft-touch plastics. Its design is heavily inspired by the new generation C-Class, and it features a floating 12.3-inch instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch infotainment system. There is also a large panoramic sunroof and a 15-speaker Burmester audio system. It also gets heated seats, but no ventilated seats. Although the 15mm additional wheelbase has not significantly impacted interior room, the rear legroom and headroom are still generous. However, the boot space has grown by 70 litres thanks to the longer rear overhang.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is available in two variants in India: the GLC 300 with a turbo-petrol engine and the GLC 220d with a diesel engine, both of which have AWD as standard. The GLC 300 we tested has a 2-litre petrol engine producing 254bhp and 400Nm. The 2-litre diesel engine produces 194bhp and 440Nm of torque. Both petrol and diesel engines are now mild hybrids, with a small starter motor generator incorporated into the transmission that can add 23bhp and 200Nm under acceleration and can regenerate energy under braking. The mild-hybrid system boosts economy by enabling a more robust start-stop system and allowing the car to cruise with the engine off. It also fills in torque while the turbo is still spooling up.
Mercedes-Benz has priced the petrol-powered GLC 300 at Rs 73.50 lakh, while the diesel GLC 220d will cost Rs 74.50 lakh. The new GLC will continue to compete directly with the likes of the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60.