The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is now available to order - and there’s a fresh focus on driving pleasure.
In case you’re not already familiar, the hugely-popular GLC is the German manufacturer’s luxury, mid-sized, all-wheel-drive SUV which sits between the more compact GLB and GLA models, and the larger GLE and GLS vehicles, in the range.
There’s also a sleeker ‘Coupe’ version of the GLC, too - which isn’t part of this update but which is worth a look if you like that sort of thing.
When we first learned about the tweaked GLC back in June this year - Mercedes-Benz revealed how the new GLC was bigger, more practical and more technologically-sophisticated than the outgoing model.
There’s also a good choice of efficient mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with up to 335 hp on tap.
Now, as the GLC inches closer to UK roads, Mercedes-Benz is reminding lease customers that there’s a big new emphasis on ‘agile handling and driving enjoyment’.
A spokesperson tells us:
“Key components of the GLC's dynamically designed chassis are a new four-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent rear suspension mounted to a subframe.
“The standard suspension already provides a high level of ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving enjoyment. The AMG Line specification features the sports suspension as standard while the plug-in hybrids all have air suspension and level control at the rear axle as standard.”
There are three mild-hybrid powertrain options in the UK at launch, as well as two plug-in hybrid variants
Both the mild-hybrids and the plug-in hybrids are available as a diesel or as a petrol.
It’s the PHEV diesel - ‘GLC 300 de 4MATIC’ - that’s the most potent, coming with power of 335 hp, max torque of 750 Nm and a 0-62mph time of just 6.4 seconds.
There are three model lines up for grabs - AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus.
All models get a new design of sports seats which come in Black Artico as standard with a non-cost option of brown or grey as an alternative.
With the AMG Line Premium Plus, black leather is standard with the choice of ‘Saddle Brown’ or ‘Power Red’ leather a no cost option.
You can expect a suite of driver assistance and safety systems as standard, including active lane assist, collision prevention assist, and the ‘Parking Package’ with reversing camera.
There’s also the latest-generation ‘MBUX’ infotainment system that features a pair of large infotainment screens and the option of a full-colour head-up display.
If you plan to take the GLC off-road, you can also enjoy a new ‘transparent bonnet’ camera view, that ‘enables the driver to see-through the front of the vehicle at the road, or gravel, below’.
As for the looks, there’s a new simulated chrome underguard, roof rails and running boards as well as a newly-designed front end to accentuate the car’s width.
Prices to buy outright start at £51,855 on the road, which makes the GLC a rival to the Audi Q5, the BMW X5 and the Volvo XC60.
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