The recently updated Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV has just gone on sale in South Africa and we attended the local ride-and-drive event held in the Western Cape.

Mercedes-Benz has an SUV to fit every segment, from GLA to GLS by way of GLE an G there is an SUV to match each passenger car line. However, the most popular of the portfolio is the GLC. The top-selling SUV of the line-up has recently undergone a midlife refresh and we went along to the national launch event to learn more.

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New Appearance

The most notable change to the updated Mercedes-Benz GLC, at least from outside, is the new face. The head-lamps have been redesigned and now connect to the central air intake. The lights are sharper and less rounded that the same items on predecessor.

Mercedes-Benz SA has decided to offer the GLC as standard in Avantgarde trim. This means all models come standard with a radiator grille that has a chrome surround and a louvre in matt grey. Opt for the AMG Line and the radiator grille features a ‘Mercedes-Benz’ pattern ie three-pointed stars.

Click here to read our comparison review between the Mercedes-EQ EQB and the BMW iX3.

The taillamps, too, are new in design. The feature a three-dimensional look and have countless little three-pointed stars as well, if you look closely enough. Both front and rear aprons feature simulated chrome bash plates. Interestingly, Mercedes press material says that the restyle has resulted in fractionally lower drag coefficient (0,31 vs 0,29).

More Change Inside

Owners of the updated Mercedes-Benz GLC will be happy to note that the latest version comes standard with the company’s new facia design language. Oh, and not to forget the adoption of the C-Class’ 300 mm infotainment interface. The large touchscreen takes pride of place on the dashboard and is angled slightly towards the driver for ease of use.

Another part of the upgrade is the free-floating digital instrument cluster ahead of the driver. This full-colour display can be tailored to show any info the driver wishes. All controls of the infotainment and the cluster can be carried out by the newly adopted steering wheel, or by voice command.

Initial Range

The new GLC range will only offer four-cylinder engines. To start, there are three engines to choose from. There are two turbodiesel options, badged 220d (145 kW/440 N.m) and 300d (198 kW/550 N.m). There is a single turbopetrol called the 300 (190 kW/400 N.m). Power powerful AMG derivatives will follow in time.

All engines boast the company’s 48-volt, mild-hybrid technology with an integrated starter-generator (ISG). The system includes the 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as “gliding”, boost or recuperation to the benefit of fuel consumption. The ISG also replaces a traditional starter motor.

Regardless of engine size or type, all GLC derivatives feature a nine-speed automatic transmission. This unit directs torque to a standard all-wheel-drive system called 4Matic in Merc-speak.

A Quick Drive

We got to drive the GLC300d at the national ride and drive event of the updated Mercedes-Benz GLC that is currently taking place around the Cape Peninsula. The new interior appearance is a treat and lends an air of modernity to the SUV. We also got to try out AMG and Avantgarde versions.

One could really feel a difference in comfort levels between the larger alloys and small tyre profile of the AMG Line versus the standard version on the bumpy roads that are a signature of the area. As a family option we’d suggest going the smaller, 18-inch wheel route, though we know the smarter appearance of the AMG alloys will be tough for some to resist.

The engine noise, while noticeable outside, is completely suppressed in the cabin, which is great. On our low-speed and windy route the range-to-empty meter got close to the 900 km mark. This means the GLC300d is going to be extremely frugal out on the open road.

Summary

It’s no real surprise that the GLC is the best-selling SUV in the family, over 2,6 million units of this model’s predecessor were sold worldwide. It is after all, modelled on the brand’s best-selling sedan. The updated GLC brings some of the tech from the W206 C-Class into its sibling. The new tech and styling, as well as additional standard spec, should help justify some of the price increase (see below) and make it attractive to those fortunate enough to be shopping in this segment.

Updated Mercedes-Benz GLC Pricing

220d 4Matic – R1 211 220
300d 4Matic – R1 410 194
300 4Matic – R1 328 500