New GLC Mid-Size SUV Further Expands Mercedes Benz Model Range

With the introduction of their new GLC, the relentless drive by Mercedes-Benz to expand its market presence continues apace with a model offering in virtually every segment, including some that they themselves have created.

 

Fitting into the Mercedes-Benz line-up between the smaller GLA and larger GLE (first versions of which have yet to arrive here) – the new GLC sees the luxury carmaker launch into an area in which they never previously had a model for sale here – the mid-size SUV segment. What will be a complete newcomer to the Mercedes-Benz line-up when it launches here in October, internationally, the new GLC replaces the outgoing GLK – a model that was produced only in left-hand drive.

New GLC Mid-Size SUV Further Expands Mercedes Benz Model Range

New Mercedes-Benz GLC

Based on the latest C-Class platform, but with a longer wheelbase, the GLC has the characteristic appearance of a Mercedes-Benz SUV. Sure to appeal to urban and rural drivers alike, viewed from the front, its short overhang, striking headlamps, body underguard and twin-louvre grille and star all harmonise with latest Mercedes-Benz design trends.

 

From the side, it has an elegant profile and a gently dropping roof line while the rear is characterised by broad, muscular shoulders and split LED lamps.  Bumpers come in three designs, including one optimised for off-road use and a sporty AMG variant. Antennae set within the exterior mirrors and roof spoiler eliminate any need for the customary roof fin.

 

Inside, its spacious interior has all of the finishes and fittings one would expect in this class of vehicle. Dashboard, centre console and colour media display plug the driver into an array of driver assistance features plus the full gamut of hands-free online, internet-capable, high-tech, infotainment and data transfer features now commonplace in vehicles of this class. Space-wise, the rear seat splits 40/20/40 accessing a load compartment extendable up to 1600 litres.

 

Commenting, Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars said ‘Expected to launch here at prices in the mid-forties, with the customary high level of standard specifications, the GLC is a model for which we have been waiting. It will fill a void in our model range and will appeal to motorists across the board attracting male and female drivers in equal measure’.

 

Four models will be available internationally, all with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive as standard. Diesel models are a 170bhp GLC220d 4MATIC and a 204bhp GLC 250d 4MATIC. Completing the model offering will be a 211bhp GLC 250 4MATIC petrol and a GLC 350e 4MATIC plug-in Hybrid with 211+116bhp output (which launches later in the year). Nine-speed automatic transmission is standard on 220d, 250d and 250 models.

 

Configuring their GLC, customers will have an extensive range of optional design and equipment lines from which to build on the entry-level model.  An Exclusive line offers 18-inch wheels with extensive chrome and aluminium trim highlights while an AMG line boasts 19-inch wheels, AMG bumpers and a similarly appealing range of chrome and aluminium elements.

 

Various equipment packages are also offered including a night package that includes dark-tinted glass and black paint finish on exterior mirror housings, underguards, window frames and roof rails. An off-road package includes five driving programs and a raised chassis adjustment. Other optional items include a large panoramic glass roof with electric roller blind, running boards, LED intelligent lighting, automatic tailgate and electrically-operated trailer coupling.

 

Also within the GLC’s extensive array of features are air body control, agility control, air suspension and dynamic select handling control systems plus all of the collision prevention and attention assist systems for which Mercedes-Benz is noted.

 

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