Mercedes-Benz Breaks New Ground With GLC Arrival

Mercedes-Benz has announced the arrival in Ireland of their all-new GLC – a model that propels them into the mid-size, right-hand drive SUV segment for the first time.

 

Arriving just in time to catch the New Year registrations rush, the GLC is a complete newcomer to the Mercedes-Benz model range.

 

Mercedes-Benz Breaks New Ground With GLC Arrival

New Mercedes-Benz GLC

Based on the latest C-Class platform, but with a longer wheelbase, the GLC comes straight from the mould of recent Mercedes-Benz SUV introductions. Markedly similar in appearance to both, it fits into the range between the smaller GLA and the larger GLE.

 

Mirroring the C-Class Coupe and other recent arrivals, the new GLC will be introduced to the market equipped with an estimated €6,000 worth of standard features that includes Exclusive exterior pack, Artico leather, cruise control, heated front seats, active parking assist and full intelligent light system.

 

Replacing the outgoing GLK (a model produced only in left-hand drive), the GLC has the characteristic looks of a Mercedes-Benz SUV and will likely appeal to male and female, urban and rural buyers alike.

 

Viewed from the front, its upright twin-louvre grille with inset star, striking headlamps, flared wheel arches and underguards give it an athletic, purposeful appearance that carries through to its broad, muscular yet sporty rear.

 

From the side, it has an elegant profile and a gently dropping roof line. Bumpers come in three designs, including one optimised for off-road use and a sporty AMG variant. Antennae set within the side mirrors and roof spoiler remove the need for a customary roof fin.

 

Generously proportioned in terms of passenger knee and leg room, 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.

 

Its high-quality interior, chrome finished controls, elegant dashboard with wood trim features and colour-coordinated upholster create an ambiance of luxury and comfort. Space-wise, the rear seat splits 40/20/40 to extend the cargo area up to 1600 litres.

 

In Ireland, emphasis will be placed on two diesel models, both equipped with 9-speed automatic transmission and 4maticpermanent all-wheel drive as standard. Both of 2143cc capacity and both in tax band B1 with annual road tax of €270, they are a 170bhp GLC 220d at €50,280 (ex works) and a 204bhp GLC 250d at €52.055.

 

Customers can choose from three equipment lines – Standard, Exclusive and AMG – with Exclusive line offering 18-inch wheels and AMG line offering 19-inch wheels and AMG styled bumpers.

 

As befits a car of its class, the GLC is festooned with latest safety and high-tech gadgetry. Standard and optional features include all of the collision prevention and attention assist systems for which Mercedes-Benz is noted. These include their acclaimed Attention Assist, and Collision Prevention Assist plus  other stay-safe items such as adaptive cruise control, adaptive brake assist, Blind Spot Assist, electronic stability and cross wind assist.

 

Also within the GLC’s extensive features offering are agility control, air suspension and dynamic select handling control systems.

 

An off-road package includes five driving programs and raised chassis adjustment. Other optional items include a large panoramic glass roof with electric roller blind, running boards, automatic tailgate and an electrically-operated trailer coupling.

 

Describing the GLC as one of the ‘most complete’ vehicles ever launched by Mercedes-Benz, Ciaran Allen, their sales manager for passenger cars said ‘the GLC is a model for which we have been waiting, filling a void in our model range in a way that will appeal to all fans of the SUV.’

Comments are closed.