Yahoo Autos 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class revealed as an evolutionary step forward
This is the redesigned 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, and it’s a vital redesign for Mercedes, because the GLC-Class is the company’s best-selling model. We’re seeing the new SUV in its base GLC 300 (rear-wheel drive model) and GLC 300 4Matic trims first, but Mercedes has already told us that the usual follow-up models are coming. Expect a plug-in hybrid (with a much bigger battery and far more electric range) to launch for 2024. Plus, AMG variants will be joining the fray later, too.
As for what’s new with the base GLC 300, there’s a lot to get to. As vehicles tend to do these days, this GLC generation is bigger than the last. Overall length is up 2.4 inches, and the wheelbase stretches by 0.59 inch. Front track width is up 0.24 inch, and rear track width is up by 0.91 inch — however, overall width remains the same. Mercedes says the size increase benefits rear cargo capacity, as it’s up by 1.8 cubic-feet versus its predecessor (which had more space than its numbers indicated). Rear legroom is generally static, seeing a 0.1 inch increase.
The exterior design doesn’t rock the boat, but Mercedes said the changes it made emphasize the vehicle’s width more. For example, the headlights now stretch horizontally and connect to the grille. A new chrome underguard is stretched further to achieve the same effect. Plus, wider rear taillights are connected by a “handle” of sorts to give the rear a stretched look. The usual black plastic cladding is present if you want it, but opt for the AMG Line, and Mercedes paints those wheel arch liners in body color for the first time — you can see what that looks like in the white car pictured in the gallery.
If you’ve seen the interior for the new C-Class, then you’ve essentially seen the new GLC’s interior, too. The pair look remarkably similar in photos. A big, vertically-oriented 11.9-inch infotainment system sits in the middle and is canted toward the driver. Meanwhile, a wide 12.3-inch screen floats in the dash as an instrument cluster. It’s all running the latest version of MBUX software. Wide expanses of trim are splashed across the rest of the visible dashboard and air vents inspired by the engine nacelles of aircraft are positioned throughout.
As for what’s making the new GLC 300 go, a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid assistance is the standard powertrain setup. It’s Mercedes’ latest 2.0-liter turbo, and it’s the same one as is found in the C-Class, featuring a new twin-scroll turbocharger developed in collaboration with the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 team. The 48-volt system uses an integrated starter generator (ISG) that supplies a boost at lower rpms. The new ISG improves start/stop smoothness and also facilitates “gliding” when possible, shutting the engine down at speed when it’s not necessary. Total system output is 258 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque — that’s 22 pound-feet of torque more than the previous GLC.
