The new Mercedes-Benz GLC (X254) is even more dynamic, powerful and sustainable. Locally available with an innovative mild-hybrid system with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator, the brand-new model sets heightened standards for driving enjoyment, efficiency, advanced design and a luxurious, practical cabin. “With the new GLC, which spearheads the next generation of our luxury lifestyle SUV range, we are continuing a success story into the future: since its global introduction, 2.6 million customers have decided in favour of the class-leading GLC line-up,” says Mark Raine, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director: Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa. “Likewise, it’s been a massive success in the South African market and is one of the most sought-after cars in our product portfolio.
“We’re excited to have the new GLC in South Africa, with its combination of dynamic driving, latest in technology and digitalisation, modern design and luxury appeal. It promises to thrill in both outdoor and city environments, and is set to attract adventurers and families alike,” concludes Raine.
Sensual purity, intelligence and emotion The GLC is immediately recognisable as a member of the Mercedes-Benz SUV family. Standard equipment includes the AVANTGARDE exterior with Chrome package including chrome window surrounds and a new, chrome-look simulated under guard. This adds striking design features and enhances the unique proportions of the vehicle. One of the defining design highlights of the GLC is the redesigned front end, with headlamps that connect directly to the radiator grille to emphasise the vehicle’s width, and the new radiator grille as part of the standard AVANTGARDE exterior, which now has a chrome surround and a sporty louvre in matt grey with chrome trim. The AMG Line has a radiator grille with Mercedes-Benz pattern.
“The GLC continues our design philosophy with its sensual purity and, like the entire SUV portfolio, exudes intelligence and emotion,” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz AG. “With its beauty and exceptional flair, we have been able to create the modern luxury that is the hallmark of Mercedes-Benz.” The body design is characterised by a full, spanned surface design enriched with precisely shaped edges on the sides. These emphasise the proportions, accentuate the muscular wheel arches and create a balance between elegance and off-road performance. Wheel arch liners in the vehicle colour are available from the AMG Line upwards for the first time. The avant-garde seat design of the new GLC plays with layers and contoured surfaces, lending them visual lightness. The head restraints and their connection to the backrest with an enclosed cover have been re-designed. The new GLC is available with a leather-lined dashboard with nappa-look beltlines (optional, standard for the AMG Line). Some trim elements have innovative surfaces. These include new interpretations of open-pored veneers in brown tones as well as an open-pored, black wood veneer featuring fine, form-following inlays in real aluminium.
Engines: Systematically electrified four-cylinder units The new GLC is available only as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator (ISG). The ISG already ensures excellent power delivery. The system includes the 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as “gliding”, boost or recuperation and thus significant fuel savings. In addition, the engines start very quickly and comfortably with the help of the ISG so that the start-stop function is almost imperceptible to the driver, as is the transition from “gliding” with the engine stationary to powerful propulsion with engine power.
When idling, the intelligent interaction between the ISG and the combustion engine ensures outstandingly smooth running. Suspension: Agility and safety Key components of the GLC’s dynamically designed suspension system are a new four-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent rear suspension mounted to a subframe. The standard suspension provides an elevated level of suspension, ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving enjoyment. It is equipped with an amplitude-dependent damping system. In conjunction with the AMG Line Exterior, the GLC has a sport suspension.
Success story: Mid-size SUV from Mercedes-Benz entered the mid-size SUV segment in 2008, with the GLK. “Trendsetter in a booming vehicle class” – that’s how the press kit at the time described it. Its exterior design was unmistakably derived from the G-Class, the forefather of all Mercedes-Benz SUVs. In 2015, the brand presented its successor under the name GLC. This also impressed with the excellent safety typical of the brand, state-of-the-art assistance systems, energy efficiency and high dynamics. Since the introduction of the GLC, and of its direct predecessor the GLK, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 2.6 million vehicles worldwide. The GLC presented now is the third generation, and seamlessly continues this success story.
