No Misses

An SUV, yet coupe-like. The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, launched in early summer 2016, has become popular for its hybrid style. The trend was set in 2015 by the GLE CoupeGLE Coupe, which has been highly popular in Europe, now has a back order. The new, slightly more compact model, which is easier to handle, the GLC CoupeGLC Coupe, has been released and is reportedly gaining popularity rapidly.

In early September 2016, Mercedes-Benz provided an opportunity to drive the GLC Coupe, starting in Austria and proceeding through Hungary to Romania. Two gasoline and one diesel engine variants were available, with the objective of driving on varied roads. These regions are known for their mountainous terrain and winding roads.

As its name suggests, the GLC Coupe is based on the "GLCGLC" already available in Japan. While the wheelbase is the same, the roofline is shorter and the rear window is more raked, giving the cabin a smaller appearance. The overall length is slightly extended, and the rear seat position is lowered. The impression, especially from the rear, is one of increased dynamism, with a stronger sporty feel as Mercedes intended.

The model lineup includes two 2-liter gasoline engines (two power outputs), 2-liter and 3-liter diesel engines, a plug-in hybrid, and the V6 Mercedes-AMG "GLC 43," offering a rich variety.

The introduction date in Japan has not yet been decided, and it's unclear which models will be available. However, based on the three models tested – the "GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe," "GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe," and "GLC 250d 4MATIC Coupe" – it's safe to say there are no misses.

Mercedes-Benz organized an interesting event for this launch. They invited influencers, including bloggers, who are active on social media, from around the world (not necessarily automotive journalists). They were encouraged to drive the GLC Coupe and share their driving experiences in Hungary and Romania using the hashtag #ChasingStars. Indeed, the route included some spectacular roads that were worthy of such an endeavor.

Different Characters Even with the Same 2-Liter Gasoline Engine

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe and GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe share the same 1,991cc four-cylinder engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and full-time 4WD system. The former produces a maximum output of 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, while the latter delivers 180 kW (245 hp) and 370 Nm.

The characters are clearly different, not just on paper. The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe feels substantial and offers abundant torque. Selecting "Sport Plus" on the Dynamic Select drive mode selector provides exhilarating acceleration. The engine delivers strong power from around 2,000 rpm, and while the ride is slightly firm, it allows for agile acceleration on highways.

Although the GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe is lower in power and torque on paper, its impression is excellent. The driver is not overwhelmed by the power, and the throttle response feels more linear to the driver's input. The braking performance also seems well-matched to the car's acceleration, providing a satisfying deceleration when the brakes are applied.

The GLC 250 4MATIC in Japan also leaves a good impression, and I felt the same with the Coupe version. Although Mercedes states that the suspension is fundamentally set up for sportiness, it felt more compliant in the GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe.

The most memorable part of the drive was the Transfăgărășan in Romania. It's truly remarkable.

Anyone Can Feel the Joy

We drove the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe for over 500 km a day for four days, covering a significant distance for the first time in a while. Hungary offered resort-like countryside and highways, while in Romania, we drove through remote villages rarely visited by tourists. The most striking part was the mountain road in the Transylvania region known as the Transfăgărășan.

The Transfăgărășan is built to weave through the Carpathian Mountains, with short straights connecting tight corners. This pattern repeats endlessly up the mountainside. It's a road that car enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy. It was built for military purposes under Nicolae Ceaușescu's regime, but it has now become a mecca for those who enjoy sporty driving, both on four and two wheels.

The GLC Coupe handled this road with agility. Fortunately, I had ample opportunity to drive the GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe on this route. The powerful brakes and stable cornering performance shone on the descents, while the efficient transmission, which fully utilized the engine's torque, was impressive on the ascents. The car accelerated sharply out of tight corners, dashing towards the next one. The engine's responsiveness, particularly between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm, made for a delightful driving experience. As is typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, which reveal their true capabilities the faster you drive, we were able to navigate both the uphill and downhill sections at a brisk pace.

The bloggers from various European countries, including Romania and Hungary, as well as the UK and Russia, seemed to thoroughly enjoy their drives in the GLC Coupe. Considering the GLC 250 4MATIC exceeds six million yen in Japan, the GLC Coupe may not be an easily affordable car for younger buyers. However, it's certain that anyone behind the wheel can feel a sense of joy. It's also true that even those who are no longer young can feel rejuvenated. That is its greatest appeal.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d 4MATIC Coupe
Body Dimensions: Length 4,732 x Width 1,890 x Height 1,602 mm
Wheelbase: 2,873 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,620 / 1,619 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,845 kg
Engine: 2,143 cc Inline 4-Cylinder Diesel Turbo
Max Output: 150 kW (204 ps) / 3,800 rpm
Max Torque: 500 Nm / 1,600-1,800 rpm
Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD
Suspension Front/Rear: 4-Link / Multi-Link
Brakes Front/Rear: Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear: 235/60R18
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 7.6 seconds
Max Speed: 222 km/h
Fuel Economy (European Cycle): 5.0-5.4 L/100km (20-18.5 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 131-143 g/km
Trunk Capacity: 500-1,400 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.9 meters

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC Coupe
Body Dimensions: Length 4,732 x Width 1,890 x Height 1,602 mm
Wheelbase: 2,873 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,620 / 1,619 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,785 kg
Engine: 1,991 cc Inline 4-Cylinder Turbo
Max Output: 155 kW (211 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Max Torque: 350 Nm / 1,200-4,000 rpm
Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD
Suspension Front/Rear: 4-Link / Multi-Link
Brakes Front/Rear: Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear: 235/60R18
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 7.3 seconds
Max Speed: 222 km/h
Fuel Economy (European Cycle): 6.9-7.3 L/100km (14.5-13.7 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 159-170 g/km
Trunk Capacity: 500-1,400 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.9 meters

Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe
Body Dimensions: Length 4,732 x Width 1,890 x Height 1,602 mm
Wheelbase: 2,873 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,620 / 1,619 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,785 kg
Engine: 1,991 cc Inline 4-Cylinder Turbo
Max Output: 180 kW (245 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Max Torque: 370 Nm / 1,300-4,000 rpm
Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD
Suspension Front/Rear: 4-Link / Multi-Link
Brakes Front/Rear: Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear: 235/60R18
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 6.5 seconds
Max Speed: 236 km/h
Fuel Economy (European Cycle): 7.3 L/100km (13.7 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 165 g/km -
Trunk Capacity: 500-1,400 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.9 meters

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe
Body Dimensions: Length 4,732 x Width 1,890 x Height 1,602 mm
Wheelbase: 2,873 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,780 kg
Engine: 2,996 cc V6 Twin-Turbo
Max Output: 270 kW (367 ps) / 5,500-6,000 rpm
Max Torque: 520 Nm / 2,500-4,500 rpm
Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD
Suspension Front/Rear: 4-Link / Multi-Link
Brakes Front/Rear: Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear: 235/55R19 / 255/50R19
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 4.9 seconds
Max Speed: 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (European Cycle): 8.4 L/100km (11.9 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 192 g/km -
Trunk Capacity: 500-1,400 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.9 meters