VIDEO: New GLC set to fill a void in the Mercedes-Benz model range

There appears to be no letting up chez Mercedes these days and following on from the recent launches of the GLA and GLE models, the German giant has announced the introduction of the new GLC, which fits into the company’s line-up between the two aforementioned cars.

Mercedes maintains the new GLC sees it launch into an area in which it never previously had a model for sale here — the mid-size SUV segment. It is a complete newcomer to the Mercedes-Benz line-up when it launches here in Ireland in October, and internationally, the new GLC replaces the outgoing GLK— a model that was only ever produced in left-hand drive. It is based on the latest C-Class platform, but has a longer wheelbase and thus the GLC has the characteristic appearance of a Mercedes-Benz SUV.

It is aimed at urban and rural drivers alike and, viewed from the front, its short overhang, striking headlamps, body underguard and twin-louvre grille, and five-pointed star all harmonise with latest Mercedes-Benz design trends.

We are told that from the side, it has an elegant profile and a gently dropping roof line while the rear is characterised by broad, muscular shoulders and split LED lamps. Potential owners will have the choice of three bumper designs, including one optimised for off-road use and a sporty AMG variant. Cleverly, the need for an aerial or the more fashionable roof fin have been obviated by the fact the antennae are set within the exterior mirrors and roof spoiler.

Dashboard, centre console and colour media display plug the driver into an array of driver assistance features plus the full gamut of hands-free online, internet-capable, high-tech, infotainment and data transfer features now commonplace in vehicles of this class. Space-wise, the rear seat splits 40/20/40, accessing a load compartment extendable up to 1600 litres.

According to Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in Ireland, the GLC is a model for which both he and his customers have been waiting for some time.

“The expected launch price here will be in the mid-40s and it will have the customary high level of standard specifications. It will fill a void in our model range and will appeal to motorists across the board, attracting male and female drivers in equal measure,” he said.

Four models will be available internationally, all with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive as standard.

Diesel models are a 170 bhp GLC220d 4MATIC and a 204 bhp GLC 250d 4MATIC.

Completing the model offering will be a 211 bhp GLC 250 4MATIC petrol and a GLC 350e 4MATIC plug-in Hybrid with 211+116 bhp output (which launches later in the year). Nine-speed automatic transmission is standard on 220d, 250d and 250 models.

Configuring their GLC, customers will have an extensive range of optional design and equipment lines from which to build on the entry-level model.

An Exclusive line offers 18in wheels with extensive chrome and aluminium trim highlights, while an AMG line boasts 19in wheels, AMG bumpers and a similarly appealing range of chrome and aluminium elements.