The third quarter of 2023 saw the grand reveal of the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe's second-generation model. It successfully combines the rugged charm of the GLC crossover's front fascia with the sleek elegance of a fastback-style tail. The GLC Coupe’s body exhibits a sportier and more streamlined look, anchored on the rear- and all-wheel drive MRA platform.

According to Mercedes-Benz Australia, the redesigned GLC Coupe will grace the Australian market in the last quarter of 2023. Further details will be disclosed nearer the launch date. The standard GLC crossover is scheduled for a second-quarter release, with its initial launch in the GLC300 form.

The latest GLC Coupe expands in dimensions, coming in at 4763mm long, 1890mm wide, and 1605mm tall. This model sits on a 2888mm wheelbase identical to the GLC SUV. Compared to its predecessor, it's 31mm lengthier, 5mm taller, with a wheelbase extending by 15mm. The wheel placement has been modified to create a wider stance, the front track widens by 6mm to 1627mm, while the rear track swells by 23mm to 1640mm.

The GLC Coupe's aerodynamics have been enhanced, evidenced by a drag rating of 0.27, an improvement from the previous model's 0.30. The boot capacity has increased, offering 545L with the rear seats up and 1490L when folded down, marking a growth of 45L and 90L respectively from the older model.

Engine options at the European launch will include two petrol, two diesel, and three plug-in hybrid drivetrains. These drivetrains will be equipped with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission as standard. The petrol and diesel variants come with a 48V mild-hybrid system for a more efficient engine stop/start function and can also deliver a slight power surge when needed.

The GLC Coupe's interior echoes the latest designs seen in the C-Class and GLC. Drivers will be treated to a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and an 11.9-inch touchscreen rising from the centre console, hosting the latest MBUX 2.0 infotainment system. The cabin can be adorned with aluminium or wood trims, and a range of leather upholstery, with other amenities like air quality monitoring, wireless smartphone charging, heated front and rear seats, and a 710W Burmester sound system with 15 speakers.

The 2024 GLC Coupe's driving dynamics can be enhanced with optional air suspension, self-levelling rear suspension, and four-wheel steering. Safety features include Digital Light Matrix LED headlights projecting guiding lines and warnings onto the road, and a 360-degree camera system with a "transparent bonnet" feature.

This second-generation GLC Coupe offers an array of engine choices, ranging from 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines to plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Australia is likely to see the 190kW/400Nm GLC300 4Matic initially, before the arrival of the AMG versions.

The reworked GLC Coupe also offers a head-up display, a panoramic glass roof, and a Burmester surround sound system among its optional features. The extended wheelbase and rear overhang boost the boot capacity, allowing for 45 litres of additional space, totaling 545 litres in the standard models, and 390 litres in the plug-in hybrids. With the rear seat folded, this space expands to 1490 litres and 1335 litres respectively.

for the introduction of successor models to the GLC43 4Matic Coupe and GLC63 4Matic+ Coupe from Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance-car division. Details are yet to be revealed, but these new variants are expected to feature the same 300kW mild-hybrid and 500kW plug-in hybrid drivetrains as their sedan counterparts, the C43 4Matic and C63 E Performance 4Matic+.

Built on an updated version of the MRA platform, the GLC Coupe shares its four-link front and multi-link rear suspension with the fifth-generation C-Class and GLC SUV. Optional features include an Airmatic air suspension with variable damping control and a new rear-wheel steering system, which can add up to 4.5 degrees of steering angle to the rear wheels. This feature reduces the turning circle of the new model by 90cm, down to 10.9m from its predecessor.

Additionally, the new GLC Coupe will be available with an optional off-road package. This package includes a dedicated off-road driving mode, a downhill speed regulation (DSR) function, and a 360-degree camera that offers a 'transparent bonnet’ view, displaying a virtual view underneath the front of the car, including the angle of the front wheels.

Mercedes-Benz has yet to release specific details of the 2024 GLC300 Coupe for the Australian market, including pricing, but this information will be made available closer to its scheduled arrival later in 2023. With the second-generation GLC Coupe showcasing significant improvements in design, engine options, and technology features, fans and potential buyers can expect a more enhanced driving and ownership experience with this new offering from Mercedes-Benz.