Mercedes-Benz has revealed its second generation GLC mid-size SUV which comes with a host of improvements over the previous GLK model. The new GLC is packed with safety assistance systems and is more efficient than before with fuel consumption being cut by up to 19%. Equipped with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive and AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension, the GLC now offers improved ride comfort and performance.

Exterior Styling

In terms of styling, the new GLC features short overhangs, an upright 3-D grille with twin louvres and a centrally positioned Merc star. The bumpers feature integrated underguards and buyers can also choose between either AMG or Off-Road styling packages. The wheelbase has grown by 118 mm and the GLC takes on a distinct coupe look. There’s matte black cladding on the wings and wheel sizes up to 20-inches are up to tackle tough terrain. The rear end is broad and features split LED tail lights while the fin for the antennae is no longer needed as this has now been integrated into the exterior mirrors.

Interior Styling

The interior has received some love and high quality materials are used throughout, including nappa leather and open-pore wood trim. There’s also a newly designed dashboard and centre console, which houses the air vents, infotainment display, a newly developed touchpad and a new Head-up Display. The new GLC now also offers more space than before and there’s an optional large-area panoramic glass roof which adds to the airy feel in the cabin. Boot space is at 580-litres, which expands to up to 1 600-litres with the 40/20/40 split rear seats folded down. The loading sill has also been lowered by 40mm with the help of AIR BODY CONTROL and there’s also HANDS-FREE ACCESS thatautomatically opens the tailgate by swiping your foot under the bumper.

Engine Power

On the engine front, there are two diesel derivatives and one petrol model available. In addition, there’s also a plug-in hybrid model in the lineup. The GLC220d and 250d are powered by a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine offering 125 kW/400 Nm and 150 kW/500 Nm respectively. The GLC250 petrol variant is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo engine delivering 155 kW and 350 Nm of torque. All these variants are mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The plug-in hybrid version is paired up with a 85 kW electric motor and the same 155 kW petrol motor used in the GLC250. A 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission is used to put that power to the road. This variant, according to Mercedes-Benz, can travel up to 34 km on electric power alone. Five driving modes includingEco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual are offered as standard via DYNAMIC SELECT.

Safety Features

The new GLC comes packed with safety features and these include Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist and Attention Assist fitted as standard. With the Driving Assistance Plus package, features such as Distronic Plus with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, PRE-SAFE Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE Plus. There’s also the optional 360° camera and Active Parking assist which helps get into those tight parking spaces with little effort.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC will be available in South Africa in the third quarter of 2015.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Video