Opinion

The new GLC, Mercedes’ most dynamic SUV

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The new GLC is the epitome of modern, sporty luxury. It is the most dynamic model in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family. The design has unique proportions and impressive surfaces. But going inside, the choice of high-quality materials is clear. The high-resolution 12.3-inch (31.2 cm) LCD screen in the driver’s seat appears to float freely in front of the wing-shaped dashboard. The 11.9-inch (30.2 cm) center screen rises harmoniously from the center console, without any joins, and also seems to float above the dashboard trim. Like the instrument panel, the screen is slightly turned towards the driver.

In terms of dimensions, the GLC is 4,716 mm long, 60 mm longer and 4 mm lower than the previous model. Boot capacity benefits from the longer rear overhang and increases significantly to 620 liters (+70 liters compared to the previous model). Standard equipment includes the Easy-pack rear bonnet, which conveniently opens and closes at the touch of a button: by pressing the button on the vehicle key, the switch in the driver’s door or the release handle on the rear bonnet.

In the most favorable aerodynamic configuration of the new GLC, the drag coefficient (Cd) is just 0.29. It is a pleasantly quiet vehicle with a surprisingly quiet environment and low levels of aerodynamic and rolling noise. This was achieved by acoustic optimization of the body shell and sophisticated sound insulation.

The new GLC is only available as a hybrid vehicle, either as a plug-in hybrid or as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-alternator (ISG). The engine range includes exclusively four-cylinders from the current Mercedes-Benz Modular Engine (FAME) family. Accordingly, with demand-based electrification, the engine range contributes significantly to the flexibility of the international production network. Four of these engines are mild hybrid units that are intelligently boosted at low revs by an integrated second-generation starter-dynamo (ISG). The GLC also gets the fourth-generation plug-in hybrid powertrain. Utilizing the same basic engines, electrification has taken another big step. With an electric power now of 100 kW, a torque of 440 Nm and a total electric range of more than 100 km (WLTP), daily journeys can practically be made entirely electric. The improved hybrid driving program takes care of electric driving in the most suitable parts of the route. For example, electric driving is prioritized for longer journeys within urban areas. Whether with one of the two petrol engines or the diesel engine, plug-in hybrid vehicles are not only very efficient, but also extremely dynamic to drive.

Copyediting:

Aris Galanopoulos

newsSkai.gr

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