Mercedes GLC SUV 2020 review | carwow Reviews

TL;DR

The Mercedes GLC is a stylish, luxurious, and practical SUV.

Transcript

this is the Mercedes GLC and it's a rival for the BMW x3 and the audi q5 and you can pretty much think of it as a c-class on stilts clearly an inferior product thankfully this isn't it's a really really upmarket vehicle and it's absolutely gorgeous inside in fact if you spend a lot of time in this car you get so used to the luxury that you can find... Read More

Key Insights

• The Mercedes GLC is a luxurious SUV, offering a premium feel similar to a C-Class on stilts, making it a strong competitor against BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
• Standard features include man-made leather, electrically operated heated seats, and an electrically powered tailgate, though sat-nav is an optional extra on the base model.
• The GLC's interior is praised for its practicality, offering ample storage, a lockable false floor, and easy-to-fold rear seats, making it versatile for various needs.
• The vehicle is equipped with advanced technology, including air suspension, crosswind assist, blind spot monitoring, and an off-road pack, enhancing safety and driving experience.
• Despite its premium features, the GLC has some drawbacks, such as easily scratched black piano plastic, a slightly jerky automatic gearbox, and limited engine options in the UK.
• The GLC offers a comfortable ride with good soundproofing, though the steering and brakes feel somewhat numb, reducing the sporty driving feel compared to competitors.
• The diesel engine provides decent fuel efficiency with real-world results averaging 48 miles per gallon, though it can be noisy during acceleration.
• Overall, the GLC is a stylish and relaxing vehicle to drive, with some areas for improvement in infotainment and engine noise.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the standout features of the Mercedes GLC's interior?

The Mercedes GLC's interior is notable for its luxurious feel and practical design. It includes features like man-made leather, electrically operated heated seats, and an electrically powered tailgate. The interior offers ample storage options, including a lockable false floor and easy-to-fold rear seats, enhancing its versatility for different needs.

Q: What technology does the Mercedes GLC include to enhance safety?

The Mercedes GLC is equipped with several advanced safety technologies. These include air suspension for a smoother ride, crosswind assist to prevent sudden gusts from affecting the vehicle's course, and blind spot monitoring with active steer to prevent drifting into other cars. These features contribute to a safer and more secure driving experience.

Q: What are some drawbacks of the Mercedes GLC?

While the Mercedes GLC offers many premium features, it has some drawbacks. The black piano plastic interior can scratch easily, and the automatic gearbox may jerk slightly at low speeds. Additionally, the GLC's engine options in the UK are limited, with only a 2.1-liter diesel available, though it offers two power outputs.

Q: How does the Mercedes GLC perform in terms of fuel efficiency?

The Mercedes GLC offers decent fuel efficiency, with the 2.1-liter diesel engine providing real-world results averaging 48 miles per gallon. Mercedes claims the engine can achieve 56 miles per gallon and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, making it a practical choice for those seeking a balance between performance and efficiency.

Q: What is the driving experience like in the Mercedes GLC?

The Mercedes GLC offers a comfortable and quiet driving experience, with good soundproofing and a high driving position that makes it easy to navigate in town. However, the steering and brakes feel somewhat numb, reducing the sporty driving feel compared to competitors like the BMW X3. The suspension is generally comfortable, though it can occasionally rock over certain bumps.

Q: How does the Mercedes GLC compare to its competitors in terms of design?

The Mercedes GLC stands out for its stylish and upmarket design, both inside and out. It offers a premium feel similar to a C-Class on stilts, making it a strong competitor against the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. The GLC's design is described as gorgeous and high-quality, appealing to those seeking a luxurious SUV.

Q: What are the available engine options for the Mercedes GLC in the UK?

In the UK, the Mercedes GLC is currently available with a 2.1-liter diesel engine, which comes in two power outputs. For those seeking petrol power, there is a six-cylinder, three-liter engine available in the sporty AMG GLC 43 model, offering a more performance-oriented driving experience.

Q: What are the infotainment options in the Mercedes GLC?

The Mercedes GLC offers two types of sat-nav systems. The base model comes with a Garmin sat-nav, which is considered less fitting for a Mercedes. For a more premium experience, buyers can opt for the Mercedes Command system, though it is not as advanced as the infotainment systems offered by Audi or BMW.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Mercedes GLC is a luxurious small SUV that competes with the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. It offers standard features like man-made leather and heated seats, though sat-nav is optional. The interior is practical with ample storage and easy-to-use rear seats, making it a versatile choice.

• Advanced technology in the GLC includes air suspension, crosswind assist, and blind spot monitoring. However, it has some downsides, such as easily scratched interior materials and a slightly jerky gearbox. The diesel engine is efficient but can be noisy, impacting the overall driving experience.

• Despite some drawbacks, the GLC is praised for its stylish design and comfort. It provides a quiet ride with good soundproofing, although the steering and brakes lack the sporty feel of its competitors. Overall, it's a relaxing vehicle to drive, suitable for those prioritizing luxury and practicality.