2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

NEW FOR 2016:

- All-new model

Mercedes-Benz has swapped a K for a C for its popular compact luxury crossover – not to mention its boxy styling. The result is an attractive crossover with a new name that is sure to have Audi and BMW very concerned.

As its name indicates, the GLC is a derivative of the C-Class and rides on the same platform. Thanks to greater use of weight-saving materials, it sheds over 100 kilos of weight, and can also be fitted with four-corner air suspension with adjustable ride height. Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system comes standard, and defaults to a slightly rear-biased 45/55 torque split.

The GLC’s cabin is similar to the C-Class with a sweeping wood or piano-key finish centre console, and Benz’s signature tablet-style infotainment screen. The interior has an airy feel thanks to the wide cabin and upright greenhouse. Rear legroom and cargo space are especially generous when compared to the outgoing GLK – with the rear seats up, there’s 100 additional litres of cargo space. A full assortment of high-end technologies are on offer, including head-up display, full LED headlights, autonomous emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.

For now, the GLC is only offered as the GLC 300 4Matic. Power comes from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine that develops 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired to Benz’s 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. With a reduced curb weight, the GLC 300 should be every bit as quick as the V6-powered GLK 350 4Matic, and markedly more fuel efficient.

The GLC 300 4Matic includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, electronic parking brake, dual exhaust, aluminum roof rails, selectable drive modes, idle-stop system, power folding heated side-view mirrors, auto-dimming driver’s side exterior mirror, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, eight-way power adjustable front seats with power lumbar support, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt and telescoping steering column, wood and aluminum interior trim, interior ambient lighting, illuminated vanity mirrors, 33/66 split folding rear seats, push-button start, rain-sensing wipers, heated washer nozzles, attention assist, pre-collision warning, 100-watt five-speaker audio system, 7.0-inch display audio system with AM/FM/CD player, Bluetooth, USB and aux-in port.

Sport Package adds AMG exterior styling treatment, and twin-spoke 19-inch wheels.

LED Lighting System adds adaptive high beams and full LED headlamps.

Premium Package adds power tailgate, online navigation with apps, panoramic sunroof, illuminated door sills, enhanced ambient interior lighting, reverse camera, in-dash DVD drive.

Premium Plus Package adds 115-volt power outlet, parking assist, driver memory, power tilt and telescoping steering column, power adjustable passenger seat, integrated garage door opener, heated rear seats, and proximity key.

Intelligent Drive Package adds active blind-spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, radar cruise control, cross-traffic alert, autonomous emergency braking, and rear-collision warning.

Key standalone options include heated steering wheel, 20-inch multispoke alloy wheels, air suspension, trailer hitch, 360-degree parking camera, 13-speaker 590-watt Burmester sound system, satellite radio, head-up display, rear roller blinds, aluminum running boards, premium leather upholstery, trunk pass-through with ski-sack, and safety acoustic glass.