Mercedes-Benz GLC: Pros and cons

Mercedes-Benz Philippines just launched the new GLC, its latest offering in the luxury crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment here in the country.

The updated nameplate flaunts several upgrades that could definitely entice car buyers who want to reward themselves with the best the industry has to offer. But does it have flaws that might cause the crossover connoisseur to reconsider?

Join us as we check out the pros and cons of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Pros

A good-looking ride

There’s no doubt that the Mercedes-Benz GLC is a fine-looking ride. Designed to look attractive from every angle, the German automotive brand slapped the latest iteration of the crossover SUV with the exterior chrome package as standard, which enhances its front end with flashy appliques.

Its grille showcases a large three-pointed Mercedes-Benz star surrounded by chrome trims that further enhances its elegant appeal. To each of its sides are LED high-performance headlamps.

The side profile of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC is highlighted by a set of 19-inch light-alloy wheels and roof rails made of electropolished aluminum.

To its rear are a pair of LED taillamps, a power tailgate, and a diffuser finished in chrome.

Mild-hybrid powertrain

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC comes with a mild-hybrid system that not only makes the crossover SUV friendlier towards the environment but also allows it to pack more power than the outgoing model.

Under its hood is a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine with EQ Boost mild hybrid technology paired with a 48-volt onboard power supply. Aiding gear shifts is a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The setup, Mercedes-Benz Philippines explained, can produce as much as 204 horses and 320 Newton-meters of pulling power. Its zero to 100 kilometers per hour (kph) acceleration is at 7.8 seconds while its top speed peaks at 221 kph.

Fuel consumption is rated at around 6.9 to 6.6 kilometers per liter.

A luxurious interior

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC also impresses with how luxurious its interior is.

The seats are wrapped in Artico man-made leather while the steering wheel is finished with a relatively premium hide. Past the steering wheel is a fully digital instrument cluster and beside it is a vertically-oriented infotainment system that measures 11.9 inches.

Other notable appointments include its Burmerster 3D Surround Sound system with 15 speakers and the wireless charging pad at the center console.

Cons

Comes in only one variant

While the new Mercedes-Benz GLC is packed with all the bells and whistles one would want in a luxury crossover SUV, it would have been better if it was offered in different variants.

Some car buyers might want a blacked-out version of the crossover or probably one that’s equipped with fewer flashy features to somewhat slash the sticker price to a more affordable figure.

Verdict

Overall, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is one impressive piece of machinery, its pros definitely overweigh its cons and will make for a fitting choice for those who want to upgrade their rides and their overall vehicle ownership experience.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is priced at P5.19 million.

Photos from Juan Paulo Papa

Also read: 

ANG reveals Mercedes-Benz GLC is brand’s most popular SUV here

Mercedes-Benz PH expands mild-hybrid roster with updated GLC

Mercedes-Benz GLC: When power meets luxury