Mountains of flair: Mercedes-Benz GLC coupé is bigger than its predecessor
The ever-evolving SUV coupé segment has seen substantial growth over the years, compelling most marques to participate in it.
Just so you know, Audi has the Q5 Sportback, Porsche has the Macan and BMW has the X4 as a response to growing consumer preference.
Speaking of the Mercedes-Benz GLC coupé, it’s now entering its second generation, and as is usually the case, it is based on the regular GLC variant that was launched locally last year.
Only two variants have been made available, the GLC 220d and the GLC 300d, both of which we sampled in and around Cape Town.
The latest GLC coupé is entirely new and bigger than its predecessor. It is 31mm longer, sits 5mm higher, and boasts a longer wheelbase, plus wider track widths.
Although the design tweaks mimic those of the GLC SUV, the coupé version has added sporty flair.
The big difference is the rear end, with its sloping roofline to make up for its coupé stance.
As standard, the GLC coupé comes with the Avantgarde trim level that fits the variants with 18-inch alloys, as well as the chrome package and the Mercedes-Benz pattern on the radiator grille.
Buyers can opt for the AMG Line packages that add 19-inch or 20-inch mixed-profile wheel-arch liners, optional easy-entry running boards and the popular Night Package.
The GLC coupé has a cosmetically enhanced rear end, which remains my favourite part.
Mountains of flair: Mercedes-Benz GLC coupé is bigger than its predecessor and the rear has a sloping roofline to compensate for its coupé stance.
It consists of two-part taillights with black and dark red connecting elements, complemented by a chrome underguard.
Inside, there is the 11.9-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen system that is shared among the latest Mercedes-Benz products and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Take my word for it, the overall interior quality is impressive, with plenty of storage spaces — but there is a catch.
Yes, coupé SUVs have a sporty appearance, but because of their sloping roofline, which reduces boot space and rear headroom, they are generally less practical than SUVs with regular shapes.
To give you some perspective, the coupé boasts 545 litres of boot space versus the regular SUV’s 620 litres.
So, if space is an important factor, the conventional variant will serve you better.
Another potential drawback to note is the design of the rear window. Its small size and steep rake could pose visibility challenges.
GLC 300d was the first to be driven by our team at the launch.
It is powered by a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 198kW and 550Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.
The 48 volt mild-hybrid system incorporated in the vehicle provides a seamless start-stop experience.
It features an EQ Boost function that delivers an additional power injection of 17kW and 200Nm of torque.
As we experienced at the launch, this enhancement is particularly beneficial for urban driving, with its frequent stops and starts.
Space time: Mercedes-Benz GL has a 545 litres of boot space, in comparison to the regular SUV’s 620 litres, but the quality of the interior is impressive.
On the road, the GLC 300d exhibits a high degree of refinement. It boasts great pulling power across the entire power band, resulting in an impressive driving experience.
This performance is further enhanced by the superior ride quality, attributable to the optional air suspension fitted to our test vehicle.
The GLC 220d packs the same mild-hybrid 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, albeit detuned to deliver 145kW and 440Nm.
Despite the significant difference in power output compared to the 300d, the 220d executes its duties remarkably well, demonstrating the vehicle’s versatility and adaptability to cater to a range of performance requirements.
It is important to note that the transmission system in both vehicles is not the epitome of refinement.
It’s clunky, jerky at slow speeds and very hesitant when pulling away from a stop. There is definite room for improvement in the system’s smoothness and responsiveness.
With the GLC 220d priced at R1 392 350 and the GLC 300d at R1 447 350, these coupés continue to demonstrate their proficiency within their respective segments, notwithstanding their minor shortcomings.
While they distinguish themselves with their stylish and sporty attributes, our preference leans towards the SUV models, primarily due to their greater practicality.