New Mid-Size SUV "GLC" Debuts | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz GLC | Mercedes-Benz GLC

New Mid-size SUV "GLC" Debuts

Mercedes-Benz Japan will begin sales of the new mid-size SUV "GLC" on Tuesday, February 9. It is the de facto successor to the "GLK," an SUV based on the C-Class.

Text by OHTO Yasuhiro

Exterior Inherits C-Class DNA

The new premium SUV "GLC," which was exhibited as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show last autumn, has finally made its Japan debut. The GLC is the successor to the "GLK," released in 2008. While the "K" at the end of GLK meant "short" in German, the new model has been given a name that combines "GL," indicating SUV, with "C," signifying that its class and equipment level are equivalent to the C-Class.

While the previous GLK emphasized toughness, the new model boasts a glamorous styling that evokes a sense of kinship with the "C-Class" and "S-Class." This flowing style also offers excellent aerodynamic performance, achieving a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31 despite being an SUV. This contributes to reduced wind noise and improved fuel efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC | Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC

As the "C" in its name suggests, the body size is comparable to the C-Class, with the GLC 250 4MATIC measuring 4,660mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,645mm in height. By allowing a larger steering angle, the minimum turning radius is achieved at 5.7 meters. Furthermore, to enhance everyday usability, all models come with right-hand drive.

The interior design follows that of the C-Class. Equipment includes the COMAND system with an 8.4-inch monitor and HDD navigation, a 360-degree camera system, and Dynamic Select.

Compared to the GLK, the increased overall height provides more headroom, and the wider seats offer a more spacious cabin. Rear legroom, in particular, has been extended by 57mm compared to the GLK, improving not only comfort but also ease of entry and exit. The luggage space offers 550 liters as standard, expandable to a maximum of 1,600 liters. The rear seats are split 40:20:40 and can be folded, allowing for adjustment based on passenger and cargo needs.

Mercedes-Benz GLC | Mercedes-Benz GLC

New Mid-size SUV "GLC" Debuts (2)

Limited "Edition 1" Model Also Available

There is only one powertrain option: a gasoline engine. A 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder BlueDIRECT turbo engine, producing a maximum output of 211 hp and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, is paired with the latest 9-speed automatic transmission, "9G-TRONIC," a first for a C-Class gasoline model. The drivetrain is exclusively 4WD (4MATIC), offering SUV-like driving performance while achieving a fuel consumption of 13.4 km/L. This represents an improvement of approximately 15 percent compared to the GLK, which was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine.

In terms of safety, the "Radar Safety Package," which enables semi-autonomous driving by including features such as automatic braking and lane keeping assist, is standard on all models. Additionally, the "LED Intelligent Light System" with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, which supports safe driving at night, is also standard on all vehicles.

Professional golfers Ayaka Matsumori and Miho Mori

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4Matic Edition 1

Three grades are available: the standard "GLC 250 4MATIC," the "GLC 250 4MATIC sport" with added AMG styling package and sports suspension, and the "GLC 250 4MATIC sport (leather specification)" with added leather sports seats and a panoramic sliding roof. Prices range from 6.28 million to 7.45 million yen.

Furthermore, a limited "GLC 250 4MATIC Edition 1" model has been created to commemorate its introduction in Japan. Based on the "GLC 250 4MATIC sport (leather specification)," this model adds exclusive 20-inch AMG alloy wheels and designo Nappa leather seats, priced at 7.96 million yen. Only 250 units will be available, featuring a Diamond White body with black leather seats and an interior of Brown Lime Wood and aluminum.

At the press conference, Ayaka Matsumori and Miho Mori, two of the four LPGA players for whom Mercedes-Benz Japan serves as an official partner, were in attendance. It was announced that the new "GLC" would be provided to both players as their support car for the current season.