Mercedes-Benz is taking a bit of a gamble with the new-generation GLC. From launch, it is offering just one grade - the petrol-powered GLC300.
In the previous version, you could buy a diesel, a plug-in hybrid, a base petrol GLC200 grade, at one point there was a mid-range GLC250, the GLC300 and of course, a pair of AMG performance models.
The yet-to-be-revealed AMG versions will be added to the line-up, as will the swoopy GLC Coupe, with the latter expected to mirror the grades of the more practical SUV body style.
But launching with one grade is ambitious! Good thing Benz has packed the GLC300 with standard gear.
On that, it’s nice to see a premium German brand offering this level of standard features. For a long time all three major brands - Audi, BMW and Mercedes - left out key features that should be standard. But now it seems they are listening to what buyers want.
The GLC300 is priced at $103,370 before on-road costs, which is more than $10,000 over and above what you would have paid for a previous-generation GLC300. But you get a much more modern car with a lot more equipment for that.
Features that were options on the previous GLC300, such as a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, heated front seats, and AMG Line exterior and interior, are standard on the new model.
As well as an advanced mild hybrid petrol powertrain, and more safety gear (see section below), the GLC300 comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, electronic front seat adjustment, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 11.9-inch MBUX multimedia setup, wireless Apple CarPlay, power tailgate, woodgrain trim and more.
It also gets what Benz calls a transparent bonnet, which is handy during light off-roading as the camera display reveals obstacles under or in front of the SUV. Neat!
In fact, it’s so well specified that there’s only one options package available. The Plus Package costs $6900 and adds MBUX augmented reality sat-nav, Burmester 3D surround sound system, heat and noise-insulating acoustic glass, adaptive high-beams and ‘Digital Light’, extra driver assist functions and increased security.
You can also opt for a different set of rims ($1000) or two special Manufaktur colours ($1500).
In terms of rivals you can count the likes of the Audi Q5 45 TFSI, the BMW X3 xDrive30i, and the Porsche Macan T - all of which are cheaper than the GLC.