18 March 2016

Mercedes-Benz GLC 2016 car review

The next big thing for Mercedes-Benz is actually quite small. Mercedes, who are always striving to provide for today’s motorist, have released a new medium SUV - the GLC. Slotting perfectly into the market segment, the GLC is tipped as the next big seller for Mercedes’ SUV range and, unsurprisingly, it boasts an impressive range of standard equipment; you get an impressive package straight out of the box.


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Mercedes-Benz GLC 2016
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Choice of three models

Three models are all you need for this vehicle and starting the line-up is the GLC 220d, which is priced from $89,900. With the GLC 220d, you’ll receive a 125kW 2.2ltr diesel 9-speed Auto transmission, with Mercedes’ 4-Matic permanent AWD. The manufacturer states that you’ll only use 5.6L/100km, which isn’t bad at all considering the size of the engine. The GLC 220d also offers 19” alloy wheels, Artico upholstery, LED intelligent light system, electronic front seats and Garmin Map Pilot navigation. And, to top everything off, the interior of all models are finished with Black-Ash open pore wood trim, giving it that hand-crafted feel.

The GLC 250 and 250d are available from $94,900 and $96,900. While they both continue to offer luxury, they also produce a little extra power. The GLC 250 has a 155kW 2ltr petrol turbo engine. This coupled with the new 9G-Tronic transmission and 4-Matic AWD, gives the GLC 250 bragging rights over its impressive fuel consumption figures of 7.2L/ 100km.

The 250d is powered with the same 2.2 diesel as the 220d, but it has an increased power output of 150kW. This is helped by the inclusion of two turbochargers, which consume just 5.7L/100km. The 250d builds upon the high-spec of the 220d, plus you get a variety of upgrades - 20” alloy wheels, leather upholstery, Driver Assistance PLUS, Keyless-Go with hands free access (unless you have a tow bar) and privacy glass.

Standard features across all three models include Agility Control suspension with selective dampening system, Dynamic Select with five different driving modes to choose from, keyless start, hands free electric tailgate, navigation with innovative touchpad, electric front seats and a 360 degree camera - so a pretty extensive list. And it continues as safety and assistance items include nine airbags, Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Blind Spot Assist, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program and Collision Prevention Assist.

If you must, spec it up

For those who feel like they want something more, there are many options available to leave you feeling more than satisfied. Firstly, there’s the Vision Package that offers a very large panoramic glass sunroof and Head-up display. Secondly, if cosmetic enhancements and sports suspension are more your cup of tea, there’s the opportunity to add AMG features.

For the adventurous type there’s the Off-road Engineering Package, which provides off-road, incline, slippery, trailer and rocking assist driving modes. Operating the rocking assist mode is the Airbody Control suspension with selective damping system, which raises the ride height of the vehicle to 50mm when needed. On top of all of this, you also get downhill speed regulation, upgraded underbody and sump guard protection. It’s a package that will truly transform your soft-roader into a very capable off-road vehicle, without losing any of its comfort or ease of driveability.

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