Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé suitable for off-roading?
The GLC Coupé is what premium Bavarian automakers like to refer to as SAVs or sports activity vehicles; a car that has coupe-crossover styling, a bit of ground clearance, and all-wheel-drive, but can you take it on off-road adventures?
If you're a stylish adventurer looking for a car that can handle both cityscapes and off-road excursions, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé might look like it may do a fine job, but can it truly handle the rougher stuff?
Read our 2024 GLC Coupé launch report here.
On-road prowess with an off-roading skillset
The GLC Coupé might garner attention with its sleek, sporty design, but don't underestimate its hidden talents. This Mercedes offers a healthy dose of off-road features like:
- A Standard Off-Road Driving Mode: This mode adjusts engine and transmission settings for better handling on unpaved surfaces.
- Hill Descent Control (DSR): DSR maintains a controlled speed when navigating steep declines, ensuring a safe descent.
- Optional Air Body Suspension: This upgrade provides adjustable ground clearance, allowing you to tackle obstacles with more confidence.
- 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: All local GLC Coupé models offer 4MATIC, providing good traction and control on loose surfaces like gravel or sand.
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Important considerations
While the GLC Coupé is equipped with features for off-road driving, it's crucial to remember it's not a dedicated off-road vehicle like its stablemates like the Geländewagen, for example. Some limitations to consider include:
- Ground clearance: Even with air suspension, the GLC Coupé's ground clearance is limiting for rocky terrain.
- Approach and departure Angles: The GLC Coupé's design is more focused on looking good than having the ability to drive up the side of a mountain, which translates to less favourable approach and departure angles compared to traditional SUVs.
- Tyres: Low-profile tyres are better suited for on-road performance. Upgrading to all-terrain tyres can significantly enhance off-road grip. (Our model had 19-inch wheels fitted, stock-standard on AMG Line trim, at no extra cost).
- The absence of a low-range transfer case: This crucial component (in dedicated off-road vehicles) allows for gear reduction, multiplying engine torque and enabling the car to crawl over obstacles or navigate steep inclines with greater control and power. Without a low-range transfer case, the GLC Coupe's off-road capability is limited to surfaces where additional power and precise control at low speeds are not essential.
- No locking differentials: When a diff lock is engaged, both wheels on an axle are forced to rotate at the same speed, regardless of traction conditions. This is necessary for off-roading because it ensures that the wheel with traction can move the vehicle forward, even if the other wheel is on a slippery surface. There are different types of diff locks, including centre diff locks (locking the front and rear axles together) and individual wheel locks (locking both wheels on a single axle). The G-wagon offers a centre, front, and rear differential lock!
Related: Should you buy a used Mercedes-benz GLC Coupe?
Taking the GLC Coupé on a dirt road-trip
When the GLC Coupé arrived on our doorstep in 300d AMG Line trim, we were itching to take it on an adventure. Luckily, it had standard tyres fitted that are more suited for everyday driving on tar, dirt, and gravel, so we drove to our closest mountain pass, namely the Van Der Stel Pass, which is a fairly easy but long dirt road through valleys and hills, but you can take a detour or two that involves a more rutted surface. The rainy season also makes things a little bit more fun and challenging but I knew the GLC Coupé would be up to the task.
Our car was also not equipped with Airmatic air suspension, so it was mostly a stock-standard tyre and suspension affair, and the GLC Coupé was beautiful to drive, feeling surefooted, controlled, firm but not soft, and super comfortable at all times.
In a bakkie (even if it's a 4x4) or ladder-frame chassis SUV, there's always a bit of body roll and a tendency for vehicles to a get a little tail happy (ie. oversteering), which can feel like the rear end is suddenly "snapping out" or losing grip. It's a bit disconcerting, but in the GLC Coupé with its monocoque construction (this means the body and frame are a single, unified structure), low centre of gravity, and all-wheel-drive, handling felt perfect, even when you drive with a bit more fervour!
Related: How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé?
Verdict: A capable companion for light off-roading
The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé is an excellent companion for light off-road adventures. It is suitable for tackling gravel roads, dirt paths, and moderate inclines. However, for serious off-roading involving challenging terrain, a more traditional SUV might be a better choice.
