While BMW and Audi are currently working on the next X3 and Q5, respectively, Mercedes-Benz already has a successor for the boxy GLK.
It sports an entirely new look that brings it closer to the facelifted ML and, similarly to its bigger sibling that was re-branded the GLE, it is named the GLC.
The Power And The Box
The test car is the GLC 250d 4Matic, which sits atop of the diesel range right now using the most powerful version of the 2.2-liter four-banger. Output stands at 204 PS (201 HP) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque, and considering that it tips the scales at a hefty 1,845 kg (4,068 lbs), the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 7.6 seconds is more than respectable, as is the 222 km/h (138 mph) top speed.
On paper, the numbers look promising. This translates into the real world, too, where torque kicks in at low revs regardless if you chose the Eco or Sport driving modes, with the latter making it more agile. In fact, the only drawback is that the unit has a tendency to be quite noisy when it is cold, which is noticeable even in the cabin.
Channeling output to all four corners is a new 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission, which is way better than the old 7-speed auto. Gear changes are smooth and when cruising, it will select the highest gear possible, but it is quick to downshift when asked to kickdown.
How Does It Feel?
In short, very car-like and it has the C-Class to thank for that, as the two share the same platform, most components, engine lineup and interior. Body roll has been significantly minimized over the GLK, steering is quick and there's lots of grip around corners.
On the comfort front, the GLC performed exceptionally: the whole package, from the suspension settings to the seats performed convincing enough to make one end the short test drive and sign the papers over at the dealer. In fact, checking the options list with the Air Body suspension, which costs €1,900 ($2,130) extra on this version, can only make the ride more sublime.
Those who are inclined to leave the tarmac every once in a while will be glad to hear that the GLC, despite its better on-road manners, is still capable of tackling some pretty steep terrain. For even better performance, tick the Off-Road Engineering Package box in the options list and you get some styling tweaks, new wheels, Air Body Control suspension, hill descent control and specific driving modes.
Mercedes-Benz's official consumption figures stand at 5.0 lt/100 km (47.04 mpg US) min, 5.5 lt/100 km (42.77 mpg) max, but reality begs to differ, with the trip computer indicating up to 11 lt/100 km (21.38 mpg US) in heavy city traffic and a bit over 6.0 lt/100 km (39.2 mpg US) on the highway.
Let's Step Inside Then
Its premium look and quality materials used throughout the cabin, including leather, aluminum and wood trim, give it a classy look. The first thing that stands out is the tablet-like display for the infotainment system which is accessible through the Touchpad Controller. The latter is not as intuitive to use as BMW's latest iDrive, but it's improved over the old rotary knob.
There are enough storage spaces that will host most of your stuff, but if you have a smartphone with a generous display, then it will probably end up in the door pocket or the armrest, as you cannot really place it anywhere else. Two adults can sit comfortable on the rear bench, even with a tall driver behind the wheel, but add a third person and things get crowded, to say the least.
The equipment list is generous as it includes dual-zone climate control, navigation system, electrically-operated heated seats with memory function in the front, rear air vents, while an optional panoramic sunroof will set you back €1,420 ($1,595).
The Bottom Line
Even if the brand hadn't restructured its naming policy, the GLK replacement should have gotten a new moniker anyway. The GLC is not just better looking, it also handles better on and off-road and sports plenty of comfort and safety features that have trickled down from higher up the Merc food chain. Our test car came with a price tag of just over €65,000 but depending on the market, it can be had, in base form, from roughly €43,000. A premium price, sure, but then again it is without question a premium product.
Photos: Cristian Gnaticov / Carscoops.com
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