The all-new Mercedes GLC will come with plug-in hybrid technology for the first time
The Mercedes GLC is the brand’s best-selling car worldwide, Stuttgart having sold 2.6 million units since 2008 (including the GLK-Class predecessor). The new one picks up where the old GLC left, hoping to further establish itself in the all-important mid-size premium SUV market.
Once again, it will have to compete with some excellent rivals including the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and the Volvo XC60, but further afield, even pure-electric SUVs such as the Audi Q4 e-tron, Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6 have all encroached on the GLC’s market.
To make sure the new GLC has the tools in its armoury to stay competitive, Mercedes has given every model some form of electrification, starting out with 48-volt mild-hybrid then a duo of plug-in hybrid powertrains that offer over 62 miles of electric range. There’s no all-electric version of the new GLC; the EQC SUV (which sits on the same platform as the old GLC) will continue in that role for a little longer before a new bespoke electric SUV replaces it.
Moving to Mercedes’ newer MRA2 platform shared with the C-Class, the German firm has penned an evolutionary design update for this big-selling SUV. It has grown in size, but only fractionally, so it’s still a direct rival for cars such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and the Volvo XC60.
The redesigned front end adopts the brand’s latest design language. New-look headlights now blend into the front grille, finished with a striking look on AMG Line models that makes use of a Mercedes three-pointed star pattern. A sporty looking front apron also features on AMG Line cars, with an off-road-inspired chrome-edged front end on other models.
In profile the GLC’s design features new contour lines, while body-coloured wheel arch trim is now available for the first time ever on the GLC, housing wheels ranging from 18 inches to 20 inches in diameter.
The rear-end design is familiar, evolved gently over the current model. Further differentiation can be optioned via the choice of running boards – and for AMG Line models and above a Night styling package introduces black exterior detailing.
At 4,716mm long, the new GLC is 60mm longer than the old model, while the car is 4mm lower. The track widths front and rear expand by 6mm and 23mm respectively, but across the body the new model is actually no wider than its predecessor.
A lot of the new car’s extra length is due to a longer rear overhang – a move Mercedes claims benefits practicality, with a boot that’s now 50 litres larger than before, at 600 litres with the rear seats in place. All versions come with a powered tailgate as standard.
