Review: Refined, well equipped and with lots of engine options, the Mercedes GLC is an SUV for every occasion

Overview

Mercedes has been building cars since 1886 and it created a hybrid vehicle, the Mixte, as early as 1906, a testament to its commitment to innovation and technology. Today, it has eagerly embraced the electric age and, at the last count, had six all-electric cars gracing Mercedes-Benz showrooms nationwide, with more on the way.

But EVs make up only 16pc of new car sales and, while the number is rising, more than 56pc of new car buyers opt for petrol or diesel. Our test car this week, the Mercedes GLC, is one such car.

Bypassing the car jargon, the GLC is essentially an SUV version of the C-Class, larger than the GLA but smaller than the E-class-based GLE. Designed to create a balance between elegance and off-road capability, the muscular wheel arches, wide track and iconic Mercedes emblem taking centre stage give this an imposing presence. The Spectral Blue Metallic colour of our test car only enhanced its appeal.

Inside, there is a new touchscreen and the latest generation MBUX infotainment system, now more digital and intelligent. The modern luxury feeling is set off by its multi-function steering wheel and clearly structured dashboard. A high-resolution screen appears to float before the driver and even the ambient lighting comes with a choice of 64 colours.

But the seats are infuriatingly uncomfortable. Despite a button to adjust to every angle possible for lumbar region and upper-back support, the set-up lacks comfort. On a more positive note, space has improved throughout and boot capacity has increased greatly to 600 litres.

Powering the range is a choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, all with mild-hybrid units with a 48-volt electrical system to improve economy, and plug-in hybrid variants which include an all-electric driving mode with a distance range of more than 129km, according to WLTP industry measurements.

From the minute you get in it’s a treat to drive and it is beautifully refined even in 2.0-litre diesel guise. Long-distance trips proved effortless and it is happiest munching up motorways. The off-road screen and improved traction make it an excellent choice for wilderness treks.

The starting price of €81,690 for the GLC 220 D 4MATIC is steep compared to some rivals including the Audi Q5 (€63,655), Porsche Macan (€104,535 ), BMW X3 (€73,245) and Volvo’s XC60 (€72,590).

The Mercedes GLC comes with a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating and it has so many advanced safety features you will find yourself pretty much redundant as there appears to be so little for the driver to do.

The fallout from the VW emissions scandal of 2015 has resulted in diesel being in terminal decline. The electric revolution is upon us and it’s the battery and software engineers that will shape the future of the car. But, in the interim, nearly 23pc of new cars sold are diesel. Expensive, certainly, but the GLC is a tempting and well-equipped option for high-mileage drivers who need to tow, but the price tag means rivals might just have the edge.

Star rating: 3/5