Launched in 2015, the Mercedes-Benz GLC gets a makeover and new range of engines at the Geneva Motor Show. The big question is: what has really changed?
Externally, the restyling of the SUV translates to the new grille with two horizontal slats, the redesigned bumpers, the fresh chrome elements running along the bodywork, and the revised lights which are now LED as standard – LED High-Performance headlights, MULTIBEAM headlights optional.
In the cockpit, evolution is key. The GLC receives the new MBUX infotainment system with either 7 or 10.25 inches central displays, touchpad, voice and gesture control, plus the optional augmented reality GPS display function. As an option, the Mercedes-Benz GLC can now also be ordered with the 12.3-inch digital screen replacing the dashboard instruments.
The restyled GLC is also getting a full array of driving aids. Depending on version, the list of assistance systems includes a stand-alone evasive maneuver function, vehicle or pedestrian alert, assistance for changing lanes or displaying free parking spaces in the vicinity, united under the acronyms Active Distance Assist, Active Steer Assist, Active Speed Limit, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Brake Assist with turn-off and cross-traffic function PRE-SAFE PLUS.
The biggest news however is the electrification of the engine range, which is completely revised to include fresh two-liter four-cylinder turbos. The gasoline models GLC 200 and GLC 300 with 197 hp or 258 hp on tap become mild hybrids thanks to the addition of an electric motor incorporating an alternator-starter working on the 48V architecture. In addition to a drop in consumption, it offers a temporary “boost” of 150 additional Nm through energy recovery. On the diesel side, there is a GLC 200d with 163 hp, a GLC 220 d with 194 hp and a GLC 300d with 245 hp.
All-wheel drive is standard, as are the adaptive suspension and the nine-speed automatic transmission. The Mercedes GLC “phase 2” will be marketed this summer at still unknown prices.
