Mercedes-Benz launches all-new GLC

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC promises to be even more dynamic, powerful and sustainable. In South Africa it will be available with an innovative mild-hybrid system with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator, while the brand-new model aims to set new standards for driving enjoyment, efficiency, advanced design, and a luxurious, practical cabin.

Refreshed exterior design

The redesigned front end features headlights that connect directly to the radiator grille and emphasise the vehicles width while a new radiator grille as part of the Avantgarde exterior, now features a chrome surround and a sporty louvre in matt grey with chrome trim. The AMG Line features a radiator grille with the Mercedes-Benz pattern.

The body is characterised by a full, spanned surface design with precisely shaped edges on the sides which emphasise the proportions, accentuate the muscular wheel arches and create a balance between elegance and off-road performance. Wheel arch liners in vehicle colour are available on certain models for the first time.

New two-section rear lights feature an interior with a three-dimensional look that emphasizes the width of the rear end along with the simulated chrome under guard, which houses the chrome look tailpipes.

Standard equipment includes the Avantgarde exterior with Chrome package including chrome window surrounds and a new, chrome-look simulated under guard.

Modern, sporty interior

The newly designed dashboard features a clearly structured upper section with a winglike profile and flattened round nozzles reminiscent of the engine nacelles of an aircraft. The lower section has a generous trim area that flows harmoniously into the curved centre console.

The 12.3-inch high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver appears to float freely while the 11.9-inch central display rises seamlessly and without joints from the surface console.

The seat design plays with layers and contoured surfaces and the head restraints and their connection to the backrest with an enclosed cover have been redesigned. Some trim elements have innovative surfaces, these include new interpretations of open-pored veneers in brown tones as well as open-pored, black wood veneer featuring fine, form-following inlays in real aluminium.

Upgraded standard equipment

The standard equipment of the new GLC has been significantly upgraded and offers the customer a highly attractive vehicle right from the start. The standard Avantgarde Line includes, for example, popular features such as the large displays, smartphone integration and wireless charging.

In addition, the package logic has been considerably simplified to reduce the effort of choosing from numerous individual options. Functional features that are frequently ordered together are now bundled into equipment packages on the basis of the actual buyer.

Under the bonnet

The new GLC is only available as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator. The ISG ensures smooth power delivery, and the 48-volt electrical system enables functions such as gliding, boost or recuperation and helps reduce fuel consumption in that way by seamlessly restarting the vehicle above certain speeds.

The GLC is available with three 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, engine options. The diesel powered 220d offers 145kW and 440Nm while the 300d boasts 198kW and 550Nm. The petrol powered GLC 300 offers 190kW and 400Nm. All derivatives utilise the 9G-tronic transmission.

Latest assistance systems

The latest generation of Driving Assistance package Plus contains additional and further improved functions that reduce driver workload for more comfortable and safe driving. One of the new features of Active Steering is lane detection with an additional 360-degree camera, which offers advantages at low speeds. The new Parking Package with 360-degree camera and the functions of Active Parking Assist with Parktronic is available as an optional extra and offers the best possible all-round visibility and facilitates the parking process, by means of assisted parking and unparking. The system gives a clear view of the car and its surroundings, and the driver can decide if they want to park the car manually or hand over control to the system.

Digital Light

The GLC is fitted with LED High Performance headlamps as standard and Digital Light is available as an optional extra. This revolutionary headlamp technology with its dynamics and precision creates unlimited possibilities for high-resolution and targeted light distribution according to local conditions creating excellent visibility for the driver without impairing other road users.

Off-road ready

The GLC has been designed with off-road ability and is prepared for this use with several new features and systems. Standard equipment includes an off-road driving mode and Downhill Speed Regulation. In off-road mode, the GLC with 360-degree camera offers a so-called transparent bonnet, with a virtual view under the front of the vehicle including the front wheels and steering position allowing the driver to recognise obstacles more easily. An off-road screen uses two displays for clearly arranged information, controls, and functions.

The optional Engineering Package with Airmatic air suspension offers additional off-road benefits. Airmatic allows for high ground clearance off-road and long suspension travel for the best possible traction while rear-axle steering increases off-road manoeuvrability even further, while 4Matic all-wheel drive provides outstanding traction on any surface.