He Mercedes-Benz GLC It is the German brand’s midsize SUV. But as a range sister it has the version called “Coupe”, named for its sharper silhouette. The local subsidiary launched the new edition of this model this year and at Clarín we put it to the test.
It’s about the second generation of this model that tries to embody different attributes sought by users, especially by customers of luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz.
On the one hand, it has an SUV stance, the architecture that has predominated for a few years. And, on the other hand, it gives it a sporty appearance with that attempt to add some coupe features even though it is a tall vehicle with four doors.
Although this idea is not original from the Stuttgart brand, in fact, the one that first exploited these “SUV coupes” was BMW, its most direct rival, it must be recognized that Mercedes has achieved a great balance in its models, which is already They had seen with the previous generation of this GLC and with the GLE Coupe.
Among its most important new features, we must highlight the incorporation of a micro hybrid propulsion system (or mild-hybrid) that ends up giving it the status of an electrified vehicle” and, for that reason, it is exempt from paying patent in some districts (like CABA, for example) or to have discounts in others.
The concept of the GLC 300 Coupe remains the same as the previous generation. There is a marked ceiling drop on the rear sector that defines the line of this model. And despite the contrast with its height and stance, it must be recognized that it is very attractive, in a body that is now a little larger than the previous one.
The style is the same that the brand has been using in the rest of its current range and uses a couple of elements that are common in some models: the front air intakes towards the ends that widen the nose and the black ribbon that joins the rear lights and gives tension to that sector.
A detail to note. On the back, there are two elements that They simulate a double exhaust outlet, with chrome tips. However, they are fakethe real exhaust system (also dual) is hidden behind the bumper and its outlets point towards the ground.
cutting-edge mechanics
This new GLC arrives in the country with a micro hybrid system composed of a gasoline engine and a 48-volt electrical system. The combustion propellant is a 2.0 liter turbo that delivers 258 horsepower. The transmission is a 9-speed automatic and the drive is transmitted to all four wheels.
The electrical package is made up of a network that works at 48 volts and it has an electric machine that does not have the capacity to move the wheels by itself but that does assists the combustion engine in numerous tasks: it works as a starter motor and is responsible for recovering energy to supply the main 12-volt electrical network.
The operation of this set can offer different responses according to the selected driving mode (changes the sensitivity of the accelerator and engine response, the steering assistance and the operation of the gearbox or the air conditioning). The result in any case is satisfactory.
When acceleration is needed, the thrust is notable, with smooth progression. And when driving serenely, the system seems to soften everything so that driving comfort is as high as possible.
The box is a great ally to contribute to those sensations, since, regardless of the driving mode, recognizes the driver’s intentions and adjusts its response depending on the pressure with which the accelerator pedal is pressed. This is how the gears can be shifted smoothly and comfortably or more quickly and violently.
Another detail to highlight is how unnoticed the engine starts go. One of the characteristics that hybrids have, even mild-hybirds like this one, is that they can turn off the combustion engine every time. Either when the vehicle stops or even when there is a prolonged deceleration to promote inertia. Every time the four-cylinder is started again (automatically, of course) it goes completely unnoticed, without transmitting a single vibration.
Dynamically, it is a very fun vehicle to drive, with precise steering and behavior that is surprising for its height: the body rolls little and it is easy to maintain the trajectory even if you force the maneuver. Its huge 20″ low-profile wheels play a key role in its traction capacity. But, of course, they are also responsible for transmitting some rattling on very irregular surfaces.
Traction is distributed on demand based on ground conditions and driving demands. However, the tires chosen are designed to perform on asphalt, not off.
Quality and technology inside
The interior style now adopts what the brand has been showing in its new models, where digitalization stands out (two very high quality screens, one as an instrument panel and the other as a multimedia center) and, once again, the quality of materials and finish.
The selection of materials and the combination of textures define the cabin of the GLC 300 Coupé as a high-end car. To that we must add the multiple interior lighting optionsboth in color and intensity, which generate a superior atmosphere.
Unfortunately Mercedes-Benz insists on touch surfaces for most of its commands instead of buttons or knobs. These are distributed throughout the center console and the multifunction steering wheel and are very imprecise to accurately execute basic functions such as choosing the desired audio volume.
The space it offers is generally good. From the driving position, everything is within reach and the extensive and multiple regulations allow drivers of different physical builds to be kept satisfied. Of course, everyone will have one very limited rear vision.
The other limitation appears at the height of the rear passengers’ heads, due to the drop in the roof. If people taller than 1.80 meters travel there, it is very likely that they will brush their heads against the ceiling. The cargo space is good (545 dm3) but it has a trick: it is divided in two by a removable floor and the bottom part, where a spare wheel that does not come with it should go, can also be used as a cargo area.
What if you get a flat tire? It includes a compressor with a sealing liquid that allows you to temporarily repair the tire to reach a tire. What if the tire breaks or the rim becomes deformed? Then you have to call for help.
The safety equipment is high, with seven airbags and a good supply of driving assistance systems.
The GLC 300 Coupé, despite the heavy tax burden, is a vehicle that completes almost all the boxes of those who are willing to pay $159,600 for having it. Daily satisfaction is guaranteed.
