The new Mercedes-Benz GLC (X254) is even more dynamic, powerful and sustainable. Locally available with an innovative mild-hybrid system with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator, the brand-new model sets heightened standards for driving enjoyment, efficiency, advanced design and a luxurious, practical cabin.

“With the new GLC, which spearheads the next generation of our luxury lifestyle SUV range, we are continuing a success story into the future: since its global introduction, 2.6 million customers have decided in favour of the class-leading GLC line-up,” says Mark Raine, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director: Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa. “Likewise, it’s been a massive success in the South African market and is one of the most sought-after cars in our product portfolio. 

“We’re excited to have the new GLC in South Africa, with its combination of dynamic driving, latest in technology and digitalisation, modern design and luxury appeal. It promises to thrill in both outdoor and city environments, and is set to attract adventurers and families alike,” concludes Raine.   

Sensual purity, intelligence and emotion. 

The GLC is immediately recognisable as a member of the Mercedes-Benz SUV family. Standard equipment includes the AVANTGARDE exterior with Chrome package including chrome window surrounds and a new, chrome-look simulated underguard. This adds striking design features and enhances the unique proportions of the vehicle. 

One of the defining design highlights of the GLC is the redesigned front end, with headlamps that connect directly to the radiator grille to emphasise the vehicle’s width, and the new radiator grille as part of the standard AVANTGARDE exterior, which now has a chrome surround and a sporty louvre in matt grey with chrome trim. The AMG Line has a radiator grille with Mercedes-Benz pattern. 

“The GLC continues our design philosophy with its sensual purity and, like the entire SUV portfolio, exudes intelligence and emotion,” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz AG. “With its beauty and exceptional flair, we have been able to create the modern luxury that is the hallmark of Mercedes-Benz.” 

The body design is characterised by a full, spanned surface design enriched with precisely shaped edges on the sides. These emphasise the proportions, accentuate the muscular wheel arches and create a balance between elegance and off-road performance. Wheel arch liners in the vehicle colour are available from the AMG Line upwards for the first time. These accentuate the sportiness of the AMG Line, as optional equipment in conjunction with mixed tyres. Also available as an optional extra are easy-entry running boards and, from the AMG Line upwards, a Night package. 

Other features of the sporty, confident appearance are the wide track and flush wheels in 18- to 20-inch size. Several of the wheels available ex-factory not only feature a modern design with a high-sheen finish and bicolour surfaces, but are also aerodynamically optimised. The new two-section rear lights have an interior with a three-dimensional look and emphasise the width of the rear end. This too has a simulated chrome underguard, which encases the simulated chrome-look tailpipes. 

Interior: Modern, sporty luxury.

Welcome to the modern, sporty luxury of Mercedes-Benz: this is the message the interior of the new GLC with the AVANTGARDE Line already sends out in its standard configuration. The dashboard is clearly structured: the upper section has a wing-like profile with new, flattened round nozzles reminiscent of the engine nacelles of an aircraft. The lower section has a generous trim area that flows harmoniously into the curved centre console. 

The 12.3-inch (31.2 cm) high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver appears to float freely before the wing profile and trim area. The 11.9-inch (30.2 cm) central display rises seamlessly and without joints from the centre console, and likewise appears to float above the trim area. Like the dashboard, the screen surface is slightly angled towards the driver. 

The modern, highly reduced design of the door panels frames both ends of the dashboard. The door centre panel with integrated armrest evolves from a vertical surface into a horizontal orientation. Reflecting the design of the centre console, the front section takes the form of a metallic high-tech element. It can be used as a grab or closing handle, and houses the power window controls. Another highlight is the floating control cluster, into which the door opener and seat adjustment controls are integrated.