Mercedes replaces GLK by GLC

MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
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has unveiled the new Mercedes-Benz GLCMercedes-Benz GLC Gen.1Germany, 2015 > present9 versions
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. This is the model that will be replacing the old GLKMercedes-Benz GLK-ClassGermany, 2008 > present29 versions
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, a change that is part of the renewal of the nomenclature of the range of the German brand. The model will be a direct rival of the BMW X3BMW X3 Gen.2Germany, 2010 > present26 versions
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and Audi Q5Audi Q5 Gen.1Germany, 2008 > 201663 versions
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when it hits the market in the fall.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is based on the "Rear Modular Architecture" platform, the same used in the most recent C-Class. However the wheelbase of the SUV is longer than the executive compact sedan.

In terms of dimensions the direct competition of the Mercedes-Benz GLC is the X3. The GLC is 1mm shorter than the SUV from BMW and 9mm wider. However, the Mercedes SUV is considerably lower than X3 and has a longer wheelbase, more 60mm. This difference can be spotted on the back of the vehicle where space allows four adults to sit comfortably.

The new GLC will be initially offered with a choice of two diesel engines, the GLC 220d and GLC 250d. These are two variants of the same M274 2.1-liter Mercedes engine. The 220d has 170hp output with 400Nm of torque, whereas the 250d version has 204hp and 500Nm of torque. Since it is the same engine the two versions are presented with the same fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, 5.5l/100km and 129g/km of CO2.

The GLC 250d version is the faster of the two and reaches 100km/h in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 222km/h. The GLC 220d reaches 100km/h in 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h.

The petrol range comprises the GLC 250 with 211hp and 350Nm of torque. With a top speed of 222km/h, this version accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds. In terms of consumption the GLC 250 spends 7.1l/100km and emits 166g/km of CO2.

All versions of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC will be available exclusively with an automatic transmission with nine speeds and the all-wheel drive system 4MATIC.

Shortly there is also a scheduled launch of a hybrid plug-in version, the GLC 350e, which will combine a 211cv petrol engine with an electric motor of 115hp. Associated with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle will be able to reach 235km/h. It can be driven with electric energy only over 34km. Provisional data show that the Mercedes hybrid vehicle will be able to reach 100km/h in 5.9s and should have a CO2 emissions lower than 60g/km.