2021 Mercedes GLC300
Trending the line of elegance and sporty the 2021 Mercedes GLC300 is more of the former then the latter. While there are two high-performance offered by Mercedes via the AMG sub-brand. The mainstream model focuses on styling and design. For those looking to really lavish there style can opt for the sloped-back GLC-class coupe. Powering the GLCs are a turbocharged four-cylinder, and it makes this SUV have some real get-up. Those looking to lower their carbon footprint, the square back Benz offers a plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) model. While the impression is left from its standout luxurious options, those seeking a more sporty drive will be looking elsewhere.
Features and options are jammed into this Mercedes for ‘21. These optional features include automatic high-beam, 360-degree camera, Burmeister sound system, and 10-inch infotainment display. These stand alone options are now chosen without the package bundle selection we are used to. Keyless entry, self-parking functionality, and rear cross traffic alert come standard in all models.
Under the hood is a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This comes standard in all GLC’s. Rear wheel drive is the default configuration, however all-wheel drive – dubbed 4MATIC is optional. The drive itself is mostly capable and agile, however I just expected more. Alternating between drive modes consisting of Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ really don’t change the feel as dynamically as I would like. The weight behind the steering wheel just felt minimal overall. The transmission shifts nicely and smoothly. I expect the AMG-tuned drive to be premium and capable, however the standard GLC just lacks that driving verve seen in its rivals the BMW X3 and the Porsche Macan. The cabin is quiet and comfortable, but there’s just no real excitement felt when behind the wheel. While it does have accelerated lift off, the straightaway speed is lacking. The GLC300 boasts a 5.6 second 0-100km which is modest.
What is inside the GLC truly shines brightest. The attractive materials, quality, and comfortable accommodations cooperate well. Mercedes also stocks the GLC with luxurious standard equipment that includes dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats with heated cushions. The SUV also can be upgraded with leather surfaces, head-up display, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and more. The storage capacity is less generous then some rivals, measuring at 550 litres behind the rear seats and 1,600 litres with the back seats folded, however the headroom and legroom is abundant especially for those long cruises. The infotainment is a standard seven-inch screen with— an optional 10.25-inch screen upgrade capability. The system also can be operated by touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel or a mostly intuitive touchpad on the center console. The software upgrade is the newer Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system that responds to voice commands. The Mercedes 64-colour ambient lighting also sets quite the impression to all. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are standard, the 13 speaker, 9-channel DSP amplifier Burmester® surround sound system are optionally available.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic SUV
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door crossover
PRICE AS TESTED
$63,365 (base price: $49,900)
ENGINE TYPE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement
121 cu in, 1989 cc
Power
255 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque
273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilin
Brakes (F/R): 13.5-in vented, cross-drilled disc/12.6-in vented disc
Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Run Flat, 235/55R-19 101H M+S MOE
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 2.87 m
Length: 4.67 m
Width: 1.89 m
Height: 1.66 m
Passenger volume: 2888 L
Cargo volume: 538 L
Curb weight: 4122 lb
The GLC fits the needs of most buyers looking for an upscaled and impressive crossover. The lingering temptation of the 385 hp, twin-turbo V6 GLC 43 or the 503 hp, twin-turbo V8-powered 63 S will be considered when on the lot. Buyers will look to exceed its $49,900 base price. Even the $63,365 price of our test vehicle is not overly excessive considering the additional infotainment, communication and convenience features provided by three well-equipped packages (Intelligent Drive, Premium, and Premium Plus add a total of $9,300 to the tester’s MSRP).