Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Problems

You’ve hit the nail on the head Alan. The 48-volt mild-hybrids weren’t taken up by M-B Australia, purely because the plug-in hybrid GLC300e will have a bigger battery than before (for more range) and is a better fit with where the brand is going in this country. Watch out for the plug-in GLC in showrooms in the second quarter of this year.

All Mercedes vehicles are tested in Europe and issued Type Approval certificates for each regulation. The relevant Type Approval certificate for GLC states that the maximum download is 100 kg.  The masses and capacities in this certificate are used for the Australian certification to GCM, towing capacity, dimensions, etc. Without local testing facilities or engineering department, the company must use the European figures, and cannot rerate vehicles locally.

We asked Mercedes-Benz for an explanation and a spokesman told us that the GLC SUV tow rating has always been 2000kg, which is what is reflected in the company's technical documentation delivered with the car, and on the Australian website.

The overseas rating is 2500kg, which is what you may have seen on the German site.

The company doesn't adopt these numbers due to our local towing rules. As a result the towing rating for Australian-delivered cars is less.

Start by asking your Mercedes-Benz dealer for their assistance. Explain to them that you want to tow a caravan and that the factory towbar is not suitable. If they cannot help seek the help of towbar companies, such as Hayman-Reece. If might be a case of modifying an existing towbar to suit.

From the research, my pick is definitely the Benz. It's a development of the classy GLC wagon but with improvements including better suspension. The Benz costs a little more but there is stock in showrooms now so you should jump quickly if you want one.

The dealership has now sharpened the quote but most companies now only sell headlamps as complete units. Yours is among the highest of the hi-tech, including a set-up to turn the lights for corners, so it's costly.

You could go for a Mercedes-Benz GLC with similar features and save money. My choice — perhaps surprisingly — is the Jeep. Just make sure you find a good dealer.