Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the production version of its GLC SUV which will be launched later this year. This vehicle in essence is the next generation GLK-Class but gets the GLC name thanks to its close association with C-Class as per Mercedes’ new naming and model convention.
On the external front, the GLC looks similar to the entry-level GLA-Class crossover as it shares many of the external lines, curves and prominent avant-garde grille. The side profile appears to have been carried over from the GLK but looks a lot sportier than the GLK thanks to the curvy profile and flared wheel arches. The rear profile appears to be a stretched out version of the GLA-Class with chrome garnish for the bumper and exhaust tips. The cabin design and feature list have been taken from the C-Class sedan with the only major change appearing to be the colours of the various trim options.
On the engine and mechanical front, the European spec GLC is being offered with two diesels and one petrol. The former is available in two units- a GLC 220 d and GLC 250 d which produce 166bhp/400Nm and 200bhp/500Nm respectively. The petrol is the GLC 250 which produces 208bhp/350Nm. All the above mentioned engines will only be offered with the 9G-Tronic DCT gearbox as well as the 4MATIC AWD system. There will also be a hybrid version which has been dubbed the GLC 350 e 4MATIC which in addition to the 208bhp petrol engine also gets an 112bhp electric motor. The American market will also get the option of a GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MATIC. Both variants are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 241bhp/369Nm of torque.
One of the most exciting things about the GLC is that it will be offered in RHD for the first time and so that means it will be brought to the Indian market sometime next year and be included as a new model in the line-up.
