The GLC 300d coupe, the perfect urban crawler

Well over the last decade a variety of manufacturers have been introducing SUVs with coupe inspired designs with mixed opinions from the market. Recently Mercedes-Benz introduced the GLC coupe and I took the opportunity to sample the new entry to the market.

Exterior

Upfront the GLC coupe retains the same styling and form as on the normal GLC, it is only when you start moving over to the side when you notice the distinct slope in the roofline. Measuring in at 4732mm in length, it is 76mm longer than the standard GLC; however, the wheelbase remains the same at 2873mm where the 20-inch optional wheels gloriously featured on our test vehicle. It is at the rear where things are completely different. The sloping roofline meets a completely redesigned rear ending with an integrated boot spoiler.  The unique taillights are garnished a chrome strip atop to match the exhaust tips flanking the diffuser. Years ago if you asked me if I liked this concept I would have told you no and bad execution was to blame for that opinion, however, the new GLC is more convincing, actually very convincing, ok fine I am sold on the idea.

Interior

But how does it affect interior space? In terms of headroom for the rear occupants, the sloping roof is not too intrusive; it is in the luggage space department where the coupe suffers. The GLC coupe offers 500-litre of luggage space with the seats folded up, 50-litres less than on the standard car and 200-litres less with the seats folded down offering 1400-litres of luggage space. It doesn’t lack in the premium look and feel department though. The facia is adorned with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system installed with the learn-capable MBUX interface. The test vehicle which was specified with the AMG Line pack also featured porous wood trim throughout the cabin which is contrasted by the brushed aluminium buttons and multifunction steering wheel.

Under the bonnet

Although the number 300 at the rear could confuse you into thinking the GLC features a 3-litre straight-six, look under the bonnet and you will find a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel motor capable of 180 kW and 500 N.m of torque. The engine is mated to a 9G-Tronic transmission which sends the power to all four wheels via the 4Matic system. This combination provides for decent acceleration but best performs when sitting at 120km/h when the engine quiets down and the gearbox allows for a 7.4L/100km combined fuel consumption figure.

Verdict

As mentioned earlier, I was never really a fan of the coupe-like SUVs but after spending time in the GLC coupe, I found myself convinced. While this product won’t necessarily appeal to the more practical of buyers, it does, however, makes its case for those looking for something able to soak up the potholes and climb a curb all while looking good. So if navigating the urban jungle is what you are looking for, the GLC 300d coupe should feature high on your shopping list.

Warranty

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d coupe comes standard with a two-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a five-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

Price

Mercedes-Benz GLC300d coupe 4Matic AMG Line – R 1 040 948