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| Mercedes GLC SUV |
The pace of new models from Mercedes-Benz is nothing short of breathtaking and difficult enough to keep abreast of, writes Trish Whelan.
So far this year, five new models have already arrived here - B-Class, A-Class Saloon, GLE, CLA and now the GLC - with seven more wholly new and face-lifted models yet to come before year-end, many bearing the youthful appeal that is now a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz production.
Amongst them will be the latest GLC Coupe and AMG variants plus a mid-range trio of SUVs modelled to an extent on the larger new GLE which arrived here only weeks ago. Those to come include a new V-Class, GLS, EQC, CLA Shooting Brake and new GLB 7-seater which arrives in October.
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| GLC SUV interior (LHD) |
The new face-lifted GLC is now arriving in dealer showrooms. First introduced in 2015, it is a model that occupies a pivotal position within a seven-strong family of Mercedes-Benz SUVs of which more than five million have been delivered to customers worldwide.
This latest GLC comes with a new range of engines, pioneering technologies, a state-of-the-art infotainment system with larger touch-screen displays and enhanced connectivity. A sporty design gives it a distinctive appeal, reflected in sculpted surfaces, chrome elements running from front to rear, redesigned headlamps with standard-fit LED high-performance lights, a heavily contoured twin-louvre diamond lattice grille, and in aerodynamic 17-20 inch wheels.
Interior fitments include MBUX multimedia system and ‘Hey Mercedes’ whose functions expand with each model introduction. In the new GLC, an array of intuitive and operating features includes multimedia displays and augmented reality navigation can be managed by a combination of finger touch, hand movement and voice control. For drivers with big distances to cover, one optional feature is a comfort control system that helps drivers and passengers arrive relaxed after a long journey.
Driver assistance systems include distance, brake and steer assist gestures with automatic speed monitoring; an exit warning that alerts driver and passengers from opening a door when an overtaking vehicle is approaching; an emergency corridor function that helps drivers maintain course and avoid unintentional lane changing.
Other features and specs are standard-fit keyless-go start function, 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and a wide choice of on/off-road drive modes, dynamic body control suspension and drive settings, parking, blind spot, trailer manoeuvring and hook-up assists.
The range includes a GLC Coupe and a Mercedes-AMG 63 4MATIC model with AMG-specific performance, design and specs - the new GLC comes equipped with next generation four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with more to follow later in the year.
Models available at market launch (all with 4-cylinder in-line engines) are: GLC 200 4MATIC, GLC 300 4MATIC, GLC 200d 4MATIC, GLC 220 4MATIC and GLC 300d 4MATIC.
The most popular models here will be the GLC 200d and the GLC 220d versions; for the first time both the GLC and GLC Coupe will be available in 2WD and prices will start from €48,040 for the GLC and from €51,540 for the GLC Coupe.
Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz in Ireland says: “GLC is a model that has always performed. Well equipped with features that owners like, it will appeal to singles and families for whom the allure of eye-catching design, advanced technology and driver comforts sits comfortably with the practical applications that the SUV is designed to deliver.”
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| GLE Coupe |
Following will be GLC Coupe and Mercedes-AMG versions which will have all of the driver-focused features and specifications found in the GLC.
On the horizon also is a Mercedes-AMG 63 4MATIC version which will have all of the high-performance features and styling appealing to that sporty generation of motorists who revel in driving something very different not least of which is a 4.0 eight-cylinder biturbo engine with 476hp the Mercedes-AMG 63S 4MATIC that generates 510hp and a maximum torque of 650-700Nm.
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| GLC Coupe interior (LHD) |
