The Mercedes-Benz GLC could be categorised as the smallest of the full-sized SUVs in the company’s model line-up. It slots in above the GLA and GLB cross over models and below the GLE and GLS larger SUVs.
Launched globally in 2015, the model received a significant update in early 2019. Apart from an extensive re-style, the latest GLC also comes with a new engine range. All these are 4-cylinder variants that have been re-designed for greater power output and improved fuel economy.
The latest GLC models feature the very sophisticated MBUX multimedia infotainment system, as well as advanced safety systems and Dynamic Body Control which offers infinitely adjustable suspension damping. The Mercedes-Benz GLC is generally rated as the benchmark in ride quality in this level of premium SUV vehicles.
Model line-up
The Mercedes GLC model range is named according to the engine installed. There are three engine choices, these being two 4-cylinder diesel engines of different outputs, and one 4-cylinder petrol motor.
The model range also offers each of these engine installations in either standard or AMG Line trim. All Mercedes-Benz GLC models available here come with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
The model line-up is as follows from the lowest to the highest price:
| GLC 220d 4MATIC | R874 080 |
| GLC 300d 4MATIC | R917 230 |
| GLC 220d 4MATIC AMG Line | R931 980 |
| GLC300 4MATIC | R940 200 |
| GLC300d 4MATIC AMG Line | R975 130 |
| GLC 300 4MATIC AMG Line | R998 100 |
Power outputs of the various models
It is interesting that the two diesel models are priced less expensively than the petrol model. The 220d engine is a 2,0-litre diesel unit producing 143 kW and 400 Nm f torque. The 0-100 km/h time is 7,9 seconds and top speed is 215 km/h.
The 300d model also uses a 2,0-litre diesel, tuned to produce 180 kW and 500 Nm of torque. The 0-100 km/h time takes 6,5 seconds and the top speed is 231 km/h.
The 300 model is the most powerful at 200 kW, although being a 2,0-litre 4-cylinder petrol unit it has less torque than the diesel, at 370 Nm. The 0-100 km/h time is 6,2 seconds and the top speed is 240 km/h.
The AMG Line models
The AMG line packages consist of different styling details, sportier wheels and different seats and other interior details. Mechanically the AMG Line models don’t differ from the standard models.
AMG and Coupe models not included in this head-to-head
Apart from the models listed above, there are also six Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe models available here. To this list should be added two Mercedes-AMG high-performance variants in both 5-door SUV and Coupe variants. Note that Mercedes-AMG variants are completely re-engineered cars, with high performance as their keynote, and shouldn’t be confused with the AMG Line trim packages.
However, we haven’t included these variants here as the buyer profiles for both the Coupe and Mercedes AMG models are very different to that of the typical 5-door GLC customer.
Which trim level is the winner?
It’s a difficult choice. For many GLC customers, the entry-level 220d model will offer more than enough luxury, style and performance. Others will be seduced by the more dramatic AMG Line styling packages, which definitely elevate the slightly conservative GLC to a racier level.
As for engine choice, the 300d is a diesel that offers excellent performance, while the 300 model, being a turbocharged petrol unit, offers impressive performance to rival that of many performance cars.
Having digested all this, we would opt for the Mercedes-Benz 300d 4MATIC, at a price of R917 230. We feel it offers the best bang-for-your-buck in terms of performance versus price. And what’s more, being a diesel, you will enjoy all the fuel economy benefits of this diesel, with overall consumption being rated at just 5,9 litres/100 km. Even if that figure rises to a more realistic level of around 6,5 to 7,0-litres/100 km, we are sure this will endure this more-powerful diesel model to its owners.
*Pricing correct at the time of publishing
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