2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Road Test Review – Best gets better?
“Hey Mercedes!” – oh yes, it is! You’ll see why in a bit. We started off our ride from Mercedes Benz R&D Centre in Bangalore and almost immediately you’d notice the infotainment! The new infotainment system with an all-new 10.25-inch touch screen which comes with a new touch pad in the center of the console which is super interactive and sharp.
The GLC also debuts the illustrious MBUX Operating system with voice assistance feature. ‘Hey Mercedes!’ on the GLC is the new counterpart to “Hey Siri” & “Ok Google” like on an iPhone and Android devices. Additionally, the GLC comes with Apple CarPlay along with navigation which is convenient and useful.
GLC gets a mild facelift with a new twin-slat grille with clearly more chrome to satiate our chrome loving consumers, slimmer all LED powered headlamps with sleeker looking DRL’s and refreshed bumpers.
The only change to the sides is the newly designed 19-inch alloy wheels which is now finished in dual tone. GLC is a good-looking car and all of this just makes it look better. And finally, the new LED tail lights with a lot of details and an all new bumper with integrated tailpipe surrounded by classy looking chrome accents takes the car in the looks department a few notches up.
Now the seats – the front seats are comfortable with good support. The rear seats have a decent amount of legroom; no change to the space from the previous model. Added features include wireless charging, keyless start and an automatic tailgate.
The engine, though is the same – 1950cc diesel for the bold new BS6 era. The 194bhp and 400Nm of torque are sent to all four wheels via the nine-speed 9G-Tronic gearbox. While the numbers aren’t flattering, the saving grace are the driving modes which does create some excitement. You get to choose between Individual, Sport, Comfort and Eco modes.
Performance of the car is adequate for most part in any given situation but falls short when you try to push the car. Even in sport mode the shifts are quick but the engine takes a while to come alive. What Mercedes has really listened and worked upon is the suspension setup. We always complained about the older cars ride quality being stiff. But, that’s not the case anymore.
The ride quality has vastly improved over the outgoing model and is nothing short of impressive. It irons out almost all kind of road surfaces without losing its poise inspiring driver’s confidence at the same time.
It’s pretty evident that the GLC is one of Merc’s highest selling cars and with added MBUX system and other updates will only make it hotter. The GLC now has had a facelift, comes with decent features and delivers a good driving experience any owner would seek and enjoy.
It is priced at Rs. 57.55 lakhs (ex-showroom) for the diesel variant which is approx. 1 lakh costlier than the outgoing model – a small price to pay for the new infotainment and revised styling; Don’t you think so?!
Words – Amit Shelar
Photography – Govind Gadekar
