The GLC is Mercedes' luxury compact SUV that's based on the C-Class sedan. It competes with the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
The GLC swaddles its occupants in a luxurious leather-lined cabin, quiet solitude, and the solid, substantial and sophisticated driving experience typical of Mercedes. It delivers one of the most comfortable rides of any small SUV. It's also strikingly silent, with just a slight thrum of the four-cylinder turbocharged engine, particularly when starting up on cold mornings.
Despite the relaxed vibe, the GLC has some athletic chops that make it fun-to-drive. The steering responds promptly to your command -- even good enough to be compared with the nimble handling of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. Unfortunately, though, when pushed to its limits on the track, this three-pointed star didn't shine as brightly as its sedan counterpart. The GLC's stability control jumped in early, causing it to brake rapidly and making the car run wide of its intended line. This wasn't unsafe, but it didn't inspire much confidence.
The standard 2.0-liter, 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine moves the GLC with ease. A sprint to 60 mph takes a mere 6.8 seconds. It's even rated to tow over 5,000 pounds -- impressive for the segment. The smooth and responsive nine-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine performing in its sweet spot. This powertrain combo returned a decent 22 mpg overall.
As you'd expect in this class, the GLC's interior is elegant and well put together. With padded and soft surfaces, generous use of wood and chrome touches, good taste reigns inside the cabin. Multi-adjustable front seats prove supportive yet supple over the long haul. The rear seat, however, is a bit snug. The standard MB-Tex leatherette upholstery is a convincing stand-in for leather, but at this price, we expect the real thing.
The view out is decent, and it's easy to find a good fit behind the power tilt-and-telescope wheel. Blind spot warning is optional, as is a surround-view camera system that displays a 360-degree view.
The biggest knock against the GLC is the learning curve needed to master the controls and infotainment system. A touchpad on the console interacts with a center dashboard screen. The infotainment system has a broad range of capabilities but the system is highly distracting and not intuitive.
A typically equipped GLC rings in at about $50,000, on par with similarly equipped competitors. Note that many options are stand alone ones rather than grouped in packages.
Automatic emergency braking is standard. The optional Driver Assistance package brings adaptive cruise control with lane keeping and blind spot assist.
All in all, the GLC is capable and pleasant. It is a treat to drive, and the opulent interior makes for a delightful cocoon in which to roll away the miles.