The GLC is rather good-looking and I would even dare to say sexy new Mercedes, and it sits rather comfortably between the GLA and GLE model range in price and dimensions, and therefore without a doubt has two obvious rivals Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
GLC is roughly the size of a C-class and as far as us in Britain are concerned it’s a new model, but actually it has a rather ugly boxy predecessor, called the GLK.
Thankfully, Merc has moved away from the this rather ungainly look and has given the GLC, the latest smooth flowing design and sophisticated interior look. Both engines – 220d and 250d – are versions of Merc’s familiar 2.1-litre engine. But they are hooked to a new, and smooth, nine-speed auto-box.
Here is my problem, nine-speed gear box? Really? The car spends more time shifting gears than actually doing anything else. However the driving feels solid and refined, It’s not sporty, but if you want sporty you should be looking else where as GLC will not tick that criteria. There’s very little road or wind noise, even at motorway speed, and the engine noise is virtually non-existent at lower revs.
The suspension well if you choose the air springs option, is supple and quiet. It’s got good electronic traction and descent aids, enough suspension travel and good clearance, especially when fitted with lift-able air springs, and this is a hint to get this option.
On the inside I would call it tastefully furnished. Inside the Merc designers have created a small shrine enriched with quality fittings in artfully designed shapes, and the Sport trim adds a rather eloquent finishing touch.
The wheelbase is longer than the C-class, so there’s no shortage of space, front or back. It’s just a five-seater though with the similarly sized Discovery Sport pack kiddy’s seats behind. Safety is first-class, of course. As it’s a Mercedes, with the option to spec up almost all the active safety and semi-autonomous driving aids of an S-class.
There’s a 34PS difference between the two (170PS against 204PS), but not a great deal of performance distinction. Not to worry, because both are quick enough without ever feeling rapid, and they’re both very economical.
The base-version 220d is £34,950. However it does not even have a built in navigation. Splash a mere £2,495 for the Sport trim, scoring LED headlights, Garmin Sat-nav, heated seats, a nicer cabin (black matt ash and ambient lighting) and self-parking, an you will have yourself a nice little SUV . The 250d is just over a £1000 extra. Both versions rate at 56.5mpg and 129g/km.
