The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV will be officially revealed on June 1, the manufacturer confirmed. A new preview image shows off the SUV's rear end.
- Over 2.7 lakh units of the GLC were sold in 2021
- New SUV to get three new plug-in hybrids
- Will be basd on the new C-Class’ platform
Next-gen Mercedes-Benz GLC: what we know so far
The GLC, will continue to rival the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. The outgoing SUV has been the brand’s bestselling model worldwide with over 2,70,000 sales in 2021 alone. The new GLC will be 60mm longer at 4,718mm, and adopts a 15mm longer wheelbase, giving more legroom for passengers and greater boot space. The SUV will have an all-new bodyshell with fresh styling inside out, similar to the current-gen Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs.
Next-gen Mercedes-Benz GLC: will get hybird option
Similar to the current-gen Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the new GLC will be offered overseas with a range of four-cylinder engines boasting mild-hybrid tech – the petrol-powered GLC 200 and GLC 300 as well as the GLC 220d and GLC 300d diesels. Also planned is the GLC 400d – the sole new GLC model to feature a six-cylinder engine. Engine details for India-spec models will be revealed closer to launch.
Further engine details are yet to be revealed, but Mercedes-Benz has said there will be a combination of both rear- and four-wheel drive GLC models. There will also be a trio of newly developed plug-in hybrid drivelines in the petrol-electric GLC 300e and GLC 400e as well as the GLC 300de.
Our sister publication Autocar UK can confirm that successors to the GLC43 and GLC63 from Mercedes-Benz’s AMG performance car division are planned for launch in 2023, both running the same four-cylinder petrol engines as those planned for the upcoming C43 and C63, with the more potent model tipped to make over 506hp.
Underneath, the GLC will be closely linked to the C-Class, as it is today, sharing the same MRA (Modular Rear Architecture) platform, which means it should come with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension system as standard. An air-sprung set-up will be available as an option.
Mercedes-Benz is also aiming to make the GLC the most advanced model in its class. It will help achieve this via a new Drive Pilot function with Level 3 autonomous capability, similar to the one on the latest S-Class.
Mercedes-Benz: what's new for India
Mercedes-Benz recently launched the new generation C-Class here. The new C-Class resembles the S-Class from the inside and gets two diesel and one petrol engine option. You can read our review about it here.
What is your take on the new GLC? Let us know in the comments below.
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