New Mercedes-Benz GLC (X 254) revealed

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC (X 254) has arrived. It was one of the Stuttgart brand’s most eagerly anticipated launches for 2022 and, as expected, its styling is now very closely aligned with that of the C-Class, whose latest generation was introduced last year.

This is Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling SUV, which alone underlines its importance to the three-pointed-star brand. The previous-generation model (X 253) had been on sale since 2015 and, despite receiving updates, its age was beginning to show.

In a segment that remains highly popular with buyers, particularly in Europe, it was essential for Mercedes-Benz to give its best-selling SUV fresh momentum.

Familiar styling

Although this is the first time we have seen it undisguised, it comes as no surprise that the GLC adopts several styling cues already familiar from the new C-Class. This had already been apparent even in the latest spy photographs.

Striking an appealing balance between sportier looks and more elegant lines, the GLC stands out with slimmer front headlights that now extend into the radiator grille, a feature that helps emphasise the model’s width.

As for the grille, entry-level versions receive a surround and a chrome strip, further complemented by small vertical bars. AMG Line models, meanwhile, feature a grille pattern made up of the German brand’s emblem.

The designers led by Gorden Wagener have also clearly focused on highlighting the lines around the wheel arches. Together with wheels available up to 20 inches, this gives the model a stronger road presence.

At the rear, the similarities with the C-Class are again impossible to ignore, particularly in the connected light clusters.

Entry-level models feature a black rear bumper, while AMG Line variants gain a chrome lower section, as has become customary on the German manufacturer’s models.

Mercedes-Benz GLC interior follows the C-Class

As anticipated, the new GLC’s cabin follows the approach of the new C-Class. It features a sizeable 11.9-inch central screen, positioned vertically like a tablet and angled slightly towards the driver, alongside a substantial centre console and the brand’s new steering wheel, with touch controls and a thick rim.

Also noteworthy are the 12.3-inch digital instrument display, which can adopt several themes, from more elegant to sportier, the seat and dashboard trim, the chrome and carbon-fibre inlays, and the ambient lighting.

Compared with the previous generation, the new GLC is 60 mm longer, at 4716 mm, and its wheelbase has increased by 15 mm to 2888 mm. It promises more room for passengers, especially around the shoulders and for the legs of those seated in the second row.

Electrification? Yes and… yes

The new GLC is offered exclusively with electrified powertrains, either as a conventional plug-in hybrid or as a mild hybrid paired with the familiar 48 V systems. Whether diesel or petrol-powered, every GLC uses an inline four-cylinder engine, while transmission duties are handled exclusively by a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox.

At launch, the GLC will be available as the 200 4MATIC and 300 4MATIC, both using a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 204 hp and 258 hp respectively. In addition, the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system can briefly provide a further 23 hp.

In the 200 4MATIC, peak torque is 320 Nm, while the 0-100 km/h sprint takes 7.8 seconds. Top speed is set at 221 km/h.

The GLC 300 4MATIC, on the other hand, develops a maximum 400 Nm of torque and claims 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h.

The mild-hybrid line-up is completed by the GLC 220 d 4MATIC, fitted with a 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering 197 hp and 440 Nm. Here, top speed is 219 km/h and 0-100 km/h takes 8 seconds.

Plug-in hybrids with more than 100 km of electric range

The GLC range includes two petrol plug-in hybrid versions - the 300 e 4MATIC and 400 e 4MATIC - plus one diesel model, the 300 de 4MATIC.

The GLC 300 e 4MATIC and 400 e 4MATIC use a 2.0-litre petrol unit, whereas the 300 de 4MATIC is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine.

Shared by all three versions are a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor, a substantial 31.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, and a 140 km/h maximum speed in fully electric mode.

The combined maximum power and combined peak torque figures are as follows:

• GLC 300 e 4MATIC - 313 hp and 550 Nm;
• GLC 400 e 4MATIC - 381 hp and 650 Nm;
• GLC 300 de 4MATIC - 333 hp and 750 Nm.

Mercedes-Benz has not yet announced the final emissions-free driving range for each version, but says that, thanks to a more efficient energy recuperation system and improved aerodynamics, the GLC plug-in hybrid models will be capable of travelling “more than 100 kilometres” in electric mode.

The plug-in hybrids are equipped with an 11 kW onboard charger. An optional charger supporting up to 60 kW is also available, allowing the battery to be fully charged in just 30 minutes.

Improved comfort and dynamics

Mercedes-Benz says it has raised comfort levels in this GLC compared with its predecessor, through better acoustic insulation and greater refinement, changes that result in a more accomplished ride.

This is enhanced further by the optional AIRMATIC air suspension. It is worth remembering, however, that the plug-in hybrid models come with rear air suspension as standard, helping them manage the additional weight of the batteries and the complete electrical system.

The Stuttgart manufacturer also promises improved dynamic performance. Contributing to this is the option of rear-wheel steering, which can turn the rear wheels by up to 4.5°.

At speeds below 60 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels to improve the turning circle and underline the model’s agility. Above 60 km/h, they turn in the same direction as the front wheels to improve stability at higher speeds.

When will it arrive?

Mercedes-Benz has not yet confirmed when the new GLC will reach the market, but it is known that this will happen later this year, followed by the arrival of the new-generation GLC Coupé.