Mercedes-Benz GLC 2023 new-gen SUV arrives in June in a pricier sole variant

The second-generation of GLC will launch by mid year in a single GLC 300 4Matic trim level

Mercedes-Benz Australia has raised the bar for luxury SUVs with the announcement of its 2023 GLC, due to arrive in June. With a single variant, the GLC 300 4Matic, to be initially available, this model carries a price tag starting at $104,900 excluding on-road costs, presenting a significant $12,600 increase from the previous model. Additional variants, including the coupe and the AMG GLC models, are to be expected in the following months, albeit with no official announcement yet.

The heart of the GLC 300 4Matic is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that generates a powerful 190kW and 400Nm of torque. This powertrain is further supported by a 48V mild-hybrid system with a starter-alternator yielding an additional 17kW/200Nm. Reflecting the design language of the current C-Class, the new GLC boasts a slightly larger body, being 60mm longer and 15mm longer in the wheelbase, while standing 4mm shorter in height. The SUV's width remains unchanged from the previous model.

The 4Matic's power is transmitted via a nine-speed automatic gearbox to an all-wheel-drive system. With a fuel economy standing at 7.7 litres per 100km, the GLC 300 4Matic demonstrates a blend of performance and efficiency. This SUV claims a 0-100km/h sprint in just 6.2 seconds. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle stretches to 4716mm in length, 1890mm in width, and 1640mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2888mm. A notable enhancement comes in the form of increased boot space, which now provides a capacity of 620 litres.

Stepping inside, the GLC 300 4Matic comes richly equipped with the AMG Line exterior and interior packages, 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof, a head-up display, power-adjustable front seats with memory and heating, and metallic paint as standard. Infotainment needs are met with an 11.9-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with satellite navigation. Additional standard features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, synthetic leather-look seats, and wireless smartphone charging.

Mercedes-Benz also offers the Plus Package for an extra $6900. This package features augmented reality for the satellite navigation system, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, advanced safety features, and Digital Light matrix LED headlights with adaptive high beam.

While the complete safety features list of the GLC 300 4Matic is yet to be disclosed by Mercedes-Benz Australia, the inclusion of a front centre airbag has been confirmed. Detailed service intervals or pricing are still awaited, but as with all new Mercedes-Benz models, the GLC comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.

In terms of dimensions, the new GLC 300 4Matic exhibits more space and comfort than its predecessor. This new edition from Mercedes-Benz measures 4716mm in length, 1890mm in width, and 1640mm in height. This shows a 60mm increase in overall length and a slight reduction in height by 4mm compared to the outgoing model. The breadth of the SUV remains unchanged, providing a familiar footprint on the road.

Of special note is the extension in the wheelbase which now spans 2888mm, an increase of 15mm from the previous GLC model. This elongation translates to a more spacious interior, providing occupants with additional legroom and enhancing overall comfort during long drives.

The improvements in the GLC's dimensions extend to the cargo area as well. Mercedes-Benz has managed to provide additional storage space in the GLC 300 4Matic without sacrificing the SUV's sleek design. The boot capacity has seen a significant rise, now offering 620 litres of storage, an increase of 50 litres over the outgoing model. This upgrade gives users more flexibility for luggage and other storage needs. Furthermore, the second-row seats can be folded in a versatile 40:20:40 ratio, further expanding the cargo space when needed and providing multiple configurations for different types of cargo.

Anticipation is already building for the introduction of further GLC models, with the coupe variant of the GLC 300 and AMG performance versions expected to join the lineup later in the year.