Mercedes goes hybrid only for second-gen GLC

The medium-sized GLC has been the best selling model in the Mercedes line-up globally for the past two years, and since 2015 over 2.6m have been sold in total. Now the second-generation GLC has arrived. It will be available here initially with just a 48v mild hybrid powertrain, a 2.0L turbo mated with a second-generation integrated starter generator (ISG), and dubbed the GLC 300 4Matic. Expect Coupe and AMG variants down the line.

The powertrain is identical to that of the C 300; a 2.0T producing 190kW and 400Nm is supplemented by an integrated starter generator powered by a 48v system and adding an extra 17kW and 200Nm. An overall system figure is not available but it’s quicker than before, 0-100 taking a claimed 6.2sec, while fuel economy is said to improve by 0.5L/100km to 7.7L/100km overall. Helping is a nine-speed auto, and there are four drive modes, Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual. The mild hybrid aspect of the 300 evidently adds around 70kg of weight, taking the total to a claimed 1970kg.

Dynamics were pretty good in the original GLC so you’d expect the new one to be even better – an embargo on drive impressions ends on Thursday 29th June so we can talk more about such things then. Meanwhile, a mix of engineering updates includes tweaked underpinnings with a wheelbase stretch of 15mm, and broader tracks front (+6mm) and rear (+23mm). It also rides 4mm lower. Suspension comprises a four-link system up front and a multilink independent suspension set-up at the rear. There’s also Agility Control with selective damping, a passive set-up that firms over harsher surfaces and during cornering loads, and is easier going on smooth roads.

Styling is updated, with the extra width adding a more planted, rounded and athletic look, while up front are better integrated headlights and a new grille. At the rear are redesigned two-part taillights with a welcome sequence, and a new rear apron, while tapered metallic running boards are another novel feature.

The GLC is 60mm longer overall than its predecessor. The added real estate translates in part to a 50L increase in luggage capacity, out to 620L with all five seats in use. Folding the rear seatback via latches in the hold liberates 1680L. Access to the boot is via a powered tailgate.

And in a similar vein, the AMG line exterior finish is also standard. This comprises body-coloured wheel arch trim, a jeweled look to the grille flaunting tiny tristars, 20-inch AMG alloys, and larger vented brake discs up front.

Other standard items include keyless go and pushbutton start, leather-like seat coverings, a panoramic sunroof, sports steering wheel, powered seats with lumbar adjust, heating and three memory positions for front seat occupants, and a 360-degree surround camera system. There’s also a boot compartment system to keep goods from thrashing around in the back.

Price has risen some but then there’s more gear on board as well, not to mention the mild hybrid powertrain. Where the original GLC kicked off at under $100k, this is $113,900 before ORCs. Opt for the $6900 Plus Package comprising a Burmester surround sound system, MBUX augmented reality for the nav set-up, matrix LED headlights, alarm system and acoustic glass, and additional driving assistance systems, and the total is over $120k. And then there’s the Clean Car fee as well.

Mercedes says there will be a coupe derivative of this available before the end of the year, and expect AMG variants at some stage. 

If you want a fully electric GLC, there isn’t one but the like-sized EQC is available for those chasing zero-emissions motoring. This is due for replacement some time in 2025 when it will be underpinned by a new bespoke electric platform.