The New Mercedes-Benz GLC

The newly updated Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has shed its conservative skin, with notable design changes that have transformed the premium compact crossover into a sportier, more muscular SUV. But it’s not only the aesthetics of the new GLC that have changed dramatically. It has also received a raft of new state-of-the-art tech that includes the pioneering MBUK infotainment system. The result is an SUV that sets new standards on the road as well in terrain. Following its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, you can expect to see the new GLC-Class in a Mercedes-Benz showroom near you in mid-2019. Striking looks Rather than just a nip and tuck, the exterior of the new GLC has had a dramatic overhaul, with a stronger and more aggressive design created by more distinctive lines and muscularly sculpted surfaces. There are also many more chrome elements running from the front to the rear that give the new GLC an aesthetic pop. At the front end, the standard-fit LED High-Performance headlamps and the heavily contoured radiator grille combine to create a more dominant appearance. The athletic character continues at the rear, with a completely revised bumper, new angular exhaust tips and chromed skid plate. There’s also an entirely new and unmistakable light signature, with the redesigned LED tail lamps underscoring the evolution of the GLC-Class. An Intelligent, ergonomic interior On first glance, the interior of the new GLC looks much the same. It still has one of the most well-appointed cabins in its class and 20 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats in their upright position. However, look a little closer and you’ll find that among the soft-touch surfaces, high-quality materials and heated front seats, there are a number of new features. The standard-fit KEYLESS-GO start function allows you to activate the new-GLC with the touch of a button. You also have the option to use the new Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steer Assist, which deliver additional safety support to maintain a safe distance and steer. The most noteworthy addition, however, is the new MBUK infotainment system. It comes with a 10.25-inch display in standard form or a 12.3-inch optional version if you want to go a little bigger. There are also a number of new ways to access the infotainment system. While the touch screen or tried-and-tested centre console touchpad might be the easiest, voice and gesture movement recognition puts you in control without having to take your hands off the wheel. Engine and performance The new GLC will be equipped with the next generation of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines to deliver increased output at significantly lower fuel consumption. In the GLC 200 and GLC 300, the 2.0-litre M 264 replaces the outgoing M 274 petrol engine, while the OM 654 replaces the OM 651 diesel engine. Performance details are yet to be released, but with the new M 264 petrol engine producing 255-horsepower compared to the 241-horsepower of its predecessor, you can expect to be catapulted from 0 to 60 mph in the same or less than the 6.5 seconds it took in the outgoing model. Price and release date The updated GLC is due to go on sale in the middle of 2019. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but we expect the new GLC to have a starting price of around £38,000.

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