Mercedes-Benz will globally unveiled the all-new GLC class today, at an event a the Hugo Boss factory in Germany. The GLC will be the successor to the present day GLK-Class, and will be based on the current generation C-Class (W205) sedan’s MRA platform.
Styling of the GLC compact SUV has generous C Class influences, both on the inside and outside, with a few aggressive embellishments on the latter to highlight its rough road capabilities – front & rear scuff plates, roof rails etc. Mercedes says the design has a class leading drag co-efficient of just 0.31.
At 4656mm long and 1890mm wide, the GLC is dimensionally similar to the BMW X3. According to Mercedes, the interiors boast 57mm more rear legroom and front elbow room, while the boot inflates to a capacious 580 litres (or 1600 with the rear seats folded down).
Engines and variants available at launch includes:
- GLC 220d 4Matic : 168bhp, 0-100 km/hr in 8.3sec
- GLC 250d 4Matic : 201bhp, 0-62 km/hr in 7.6sec
- GLC 250 4Matic : 208bhp, 0-62 km/hr in 7.3sec
An Intelligent Lightweight construction, which employs widespread use of aluminium in the bodyshell, allows the GLC to shed more than 80 Kg over its predecessor, the GLK.
Later in the day, Mercedes plans to introduce a 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol engine on a forthcoming AMG Sport variant, along with a plug-in hybrid variant (GLC 350e), which will have an all electric range of 34 Km, with 60g/km of CO2 and return 2.6 l/100 Kms.
Transmission options will include a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the new, 9G-TRONIC transmission. Power will be sent to all four wheels using Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
The interiors will draw heavily from the C Class as well, including the free-standing COMAND infotainment system operated by the fingertip-controlled touchpad, the dashboard design, along with the three-spoke multifunction steering.
The GLC will also get an off-road pack with the AIRMATIC air suspension system, which gives it an additional 30-50 mm of ground clearance for better maneuverability off-road. Prices for the GLC will start at 44,500 Euros. Stay tuned to Motoroids for more details and images as they come by.
Watch the live launch event (rebroadcasted) here :