We recently attended the launch of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC in a very cold and wet Cape Peninsula. Here are some of our impressions from driving this new luxury crossover…
The previous GLC was already a handsome automobile. It had the right amount of curves and an understated elegance to the exterior and interior. Our tests of the GLC 300 and GLC 250d speak of timeless style and sophisticated quality, which we can definitely agree with when it comes to this new model.
Although there were more subtle colours present, our representative snapped the most photos of a GLC 300d in Patagonia Red Metallic with an AMG Line package. The sporty accents and bumper mouldings were just as impressive as the “Mercedes Star” pattern radiator grill!
The interior of any GLC was always a haven of luxury and technology, which has now been upgraded with features from the latest Mercedes-Benz models: the large central command screen flanked by big swooping design panels, delicate but intuitive seat controls on the front doors, the stylish “turbine” design air vents and many fine silver details are just some of the things to delight any occupants of the new GLC.
Naturally, you can find all the modern communication, media and comfort settings inside this vehicle, including a digitized driver information screen behind Mercedes-Benz’ newest steering wheel. This had a sporty look (with a level bottom section) and various touch-sensitive areas to control most functions of your new GLC. And if you need even more help, the MBUX voice assistant or Augmented Reality Navigation is also present!
Driving the new vehicle proved its Mercedes-Benz roots as we found a pleasing level of comfort mixed with the dynamic ride one expects from modern Sport Utility Vehicles. Performance was most impressive in our chosen GLC 300d model: the 2-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel (with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist) pushes out up to 215kW (198+17) and 550Nm through a 9-speed automatic gearbox and an intelligent / adaptive all-wheel drive system with rear axle steering. There’s also the option of making the bonnet “transparent” in an off-road assistance display.
Although we wouldn’t take this car into the harshness of Damaraland, it will certainly deal with a few Namibian dirt roads and soft sand!
PRICES:
- GLC 220d 4MATIC – R 1,211,220
- GLC 300 4MATIC – R 1,328,500*
- GLC 300d 4MATIC – R1,410,194
*Please confirm final pricing, specifications and availability with your Namibian dealership.
Each new Mercedes-Benz GLC is sold with a 2-year (unlimited mileage) warranty and a 5-year / 100,000km maintenance plan.
Thanks for this article, can’t wait to get mine!!!