Mercedes-Benz continues electric drive with new GLC

Mercedes-Benz continues on its robust drive for electrified powertrains with the introduction of third-generation mid-sized SUV the GLC in South Africa.

Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa has confirmed the pricing for the three-model line-up of the new GLC, which will all feature a mild hybrid system with 48-volt technology and built-in integrated started-generator.

The line-up includes two diesel models in the 220d and 300d, with one petrol derivative offered in 300 guise.

The new GLC coupe and AMG models are still to be revealed.

Under the bonnet

The oil-burners are powered by a four-cylinder two-litre turbodiesel engine which produces 145kW of power and 440Nm of torque in the 220d and 198kW/550Nm in the 300d.

The GLC300 features a four-cylinder two-litre turbocharger petrol engine which makes 190kW/400Nm.

Additional outputs of 17kW and 200Nm is generated through boost across all three models.

The twist is sent to all four wheels on every model by virtue of 9G-tronic transmission.

The 48-volt electrical system enables functions like “gliding”, boost and recuperation of which the latter helps reduces fuel consumption. Mercedes claims the 220d will sip 5.2 litres for every 100km on a combined cycle, the 300d 5.5 litres and the 300 7.3 litres.

The new GLC designed suspension system features a new four-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent rear suspension mounted to a subframe. According to Mercedes-Benz, the standard suspension provides a high level of suspension, ride and noise comfort, agile handling and driving enjoyment.

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Off the beaten track

New features for going off-road include Downhill Speed Regulation, camera display with transparent bonnet and display screen indicating inclination, gradient, topographical altitude and geo-coordinates.

Air suspension is optional and offered together with rear-axle steering as part of the Engineering Package.

The Avantgarde exterior, which is standard on the third-generation GLC line-up, features a redesigned front end with headlamps that connect directly to the radiator grille which now has a chrome surround and a sporty louvre in matt grey with chrome trim.

AMG Line derivatives come with radiator grilles with Mercedes-Benz patterns and wheel arch liners in body colours for the first time.

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3D taillight design

Other exterior highlights include new two-section rear lights come with three-dimensional interiors, a rear that features a chrome underguard and chrome-look tailpipes and 18 to 20-inch wheels in high-sheen finish and bicolour surfaces.

A new panoramic sunroof is offered as optional extra.

The interior features a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch infotainment system which is angled slightly toward the driver.

Optional on the Avantgarde and standard on the AMG Line is a leather-lined dashboard with nappa-look beltlines.

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GLC grows

At a length of 4 716mm, the new GLC is 60mm longer than its predecessor, while the track widths have been increased by 6mm in the front to 1 627mm and 23mm in the rear to 1 640mm. The vehicle’s width has remained unchanged at 1 890mm.

A larger rear overhang means that boot space increases from 550 to 620 litres. The boot is opened by electric tailgate, which is now standard across the range.

On the safety front, the new Mercedes-Benz GLC features the latest generation of the driving assistance package plus contains additional and further improved functions. These include Active Distance Assist Distronic which can now react to stationary vehicles on the road at speeds of up to 100 km/h and Active Steering Assist which now features 360-degree camera for lane detection.

GLC pricing

• 220d Avantgarde – R1 124 312
• 220d AMG Line – R1 206 905
• 300 Avantgarde – R1 243 323
• 300 AMG Line – R1 325 916
• 300d Avantgarde – R1 323 894
• 300d AMG Line – R1 406 577

Pricing for the new Mercedes-Benz GLC includes five-year/100 000km PremiumDrive Platinum service and maintenance plan.