Redesigned from the ground up, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is longer and more luxurious than its predecessor. The reimagined GLC doesn’t stray far from the recent C-Class makeover.
The GLC’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain, borrowed from the C-Class, generates 258 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 48-volt electric system and integrated starter/generator provide the electron portion of the powertrain. It adds up to 23 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque for short bursts. A 9-speed automatic transmission hustles output from the hybrid system to either the rear wheels (GLC 300) or all the wheels (GLC 300 4Matic).
To change the driving dynamics of the new GLC, Mercedes fits this compact midsize SUV with the Dynamic Select system, which provides driver-selectable modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and so forth.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not calculated the new GLC’s fuel economy. We know this; however: Mercedes-Benz says the new GLC hits 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, no matter the number of drive wheels.
Mercedes-Benz makes much of the new GLC’s wind-cutting prowess and outboard mirrors, which designers relocated from the A-pillars to the doors. The drag coefficient improved from 0.31 to 0.29. Otherwise, the exterior styling is quite evolutionary.
Inside, though, it’s an entirely different story. Here, the GLC ripped a page directly from the new C-Class playbook.
“Centered in front of the driver is a floating 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Extending upward on the center console is the GLC’s main infotainment touchscreen, a large portrait-oriented screen lined on its bottom edge with buttons.”
The infotainment interface is the newest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) with voice control. This artificial intelligence (AI) system provides the “Hey Mercedes” assistant. You can activate your MBUX profile with the fingerprint sensor or by voice command.
Primary rivals for the new GLC include the BMW X3, Acura RDX, and Audi Q5.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 (starting at $46,000 estimated)
If Mercedes-Benz follows its 2022 pricing strategy, the AWD GLC 300 4Matic model will cost about $2,000 more.
While we don’t yet have a full accounting of the GLC 300’s standard and optional features, we do know this:
The base price includes 18-inch alloy wheels, auto-on/off LED headlights, high-beam assist, LED taillights, and proximity keyless entry with push-button start. Also standard are a power rear liftgate, a sunroof, a 40/20/40-split-folding rear seat, faux-leather seating, and heated power-adjustable front seats.
Other features include wireless phone charging, cruise control, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
In addition to the 11.9-inch central touchscreen, the GLC’s MBUX-controlled infotainment system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus over-the-air (OTA) updates and an audio system with a front bass woofer and four midrange speakers.
Expected standard safety and driver-aid technologies include forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, front and rear park assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Among the optional safety technologies are Driver Assistance Systems with adaptive cruise control with speed adaption and a full-stop-and-restart function. Driver awareness warning, traffic-sign recognition with speed-limit assist, and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking are also included. Active lane-keeping assist is part of the package, too.
Other options, stand-alone or bundled into packages, include a panoramic sunroof, active parking assistance, a 15-speaker Burmester surround-sound audio system, and navigation. Other options are a head-up display, ventilated seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and satellite radio.
With an estimated starting price of $46,000 and a destination fee of $1,050, the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 should cost about $47,050. Financing for five years at 3% interest with no money down means a monthly payment of about $845. See 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 models for sale
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 includes:
MHEV powertrain – Consisting of a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electric assist, the mild-hybrid powertrain of the GLC 300 generates 258 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Proximity keyless entry – If the key fob is on your person, the doors automatically unlock when you approach. Push-button start pairs with proximity keyless entry.
MBUX – This is artificial intelligence (AI)-capable infotainment interface. Its highlight: the spoken “Hey Mercedes” vehicle interface, which is not unlike having Amazon Alexa in your vehicle. You can change the climate control settings, adjust the stereo’s volume, or input a destination for the navigation system.
