Mercedes-Benz has showcased the facelifted version of one of its most popular SUVs, the GLC. It is available as a traditional SUV body-style and Coupe variants with a variety of drivetrain options. The GLC faces competition in the form of the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60. We are focusing on the two engine options currently available in India.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC gets a slight bump in the power. The all-new M 264 engine produces 255bhp at 5800-6100rpm and 370Nm peak torque at 1800-4000rpm compared to 241bhp produced by the previous model. The power is sent to all the four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission. The SUV is capable of sprinting to a ton in 6.2 seconds and hitting speeds north of 230kmph.
The GLC 220d 4MATIC gets the all-new OM654 2.0-litre engine which replaces the current 2.2-litre unit. Interestingly the new engine makes significantly more power – 192bhp at 3800rpm and 400Nm at 1600-2800rpm compared to the 168bhp produced by the previous motor. Power again is sent to all the four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission. The diesel variant is capable of sprinting from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 215kmph.
Moving into the GLC’s cabin, the first thing we see is the instrument cluster, which consists of a 5.5-inch display as standard with dials. There’s also a 12.3-inch screen available as a fully-digital option. The standard infotainment package is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen and again there’s a 10.25-inch optional display. It also sports new generation of the multifunction steering wheel with touch controls, KEYLESS-GO start function is available as standard. There is optional wireless charging to the Qi standard for compatible mobile phones at the front of the centre console.
The bumpers of the GLC have been reworked both at the front and the rear. LED headlamps are standard and multibeam LED is also an option. The tail lights are also redesigned all-LED lights. The chrome package is now a standard offering and the tweaks make the GLC look more off-road ready.