Driven: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic
The Mercedes-Benz GLC first got launched back in 2015, making it still fairly new on the market. The GLC has managed to rake in some good numbers in terms of sales over its short time span and has even been labeled by consumers as the most reliable Mercedes-Benz SUV. We recently got to spend some time with the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic. A compact SUV with a beautiful coupe design, and all the luxuries one may need.
New engine
The new GLC is available in petrol and diesel derivatives, but the diesel is the one you want. Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that produces 180kW and 500Nm of torque. The performance was more than adequate to move this big coupe. A 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive make for a smooth, effortless, and safe drive.
Facelifted exterior, you say
Exterior wise, the GLC 300d does get a few changes, is it something to brag about, not really. Don't get us wrong; the GLC is still a treat to look at; it comes with a more detailed grille and a redesigned front bumper. The headlamps also get a new shape, and the tail lamps are now in full-LED.
Luxury interior
You get all the creature comforts and tech, and it most certainly is a plush place to pass your time. The woodgrain touches and analogue dials didn't deter us much because stepping inside; it still felt premium. It does get the new MBUX infotainment system, and it's straightforward to use. The navigation system has also brought some improvements, and the GLC receives a new steering wheel too. If we had to nit-pick, the interior felt a little dated, but this isn't necessarily bad. Mercedes-Benz has spoilt us in their newer models.
Safety
No doubt, the GLC 300d comes packed with all the driver assists and safety features one would need. You certainly feel safe. A few worth mentioning are the Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Change Assist. If that's not enough, the vehicle stability control helps sense when the vehicle loses traction or goes beyond its limits and automatically reduces engine power.
Verdict
In a lot of ways, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4MATIC is impressive. Our only real critique is the slightly dated interior when compared to the newer models. Nonetheless, this 300d variant makes for a superb drive, is efficient, spacious, and comfortable too. The woodgrain finishes are still a nice little touch, giving the cabin a classy feel.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Celebrates 140 Years with an Epic Glob and the Mercedes-Benz Gla.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic cost in South Africa?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic has a starting price of around R895,000 in South Africa, making it a premium offering in the compact luxury SUV segment.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic worth buying?
Yes, the GLC 300d 4Matic is absolutely worth buying if you want a reliable luxury SUV with excellent diesel performance, producing 180kW and 500Nm of torque paired with smooth 4Matic all-wheel drive.
Q: What engine does the GLC 300d have and how powerful is it?
The GLC 300d features a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 180kW of power and 500Nm of torque, paired with a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
Q: How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz GLC compared to other Mercedes SUVs?
The GLC has earned a reputation as the most reliable Mercedes-Benz SUV according to consumers, with strong sales figures since its 2015 launch proving its dependability in the South African market.
Q: What are the main features of the 2020 GLC 300d interior?
The 2020 GLC 300d comes with luxury features including the new MBUX infotainment system, woodgrain trim touches, analogue dials, full-LED lighting, and premium creature comforts throughout the cabin.
Should You Buy It?
The best luxury compact SUV under R900,000 in South Africa is definitely the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4Matic. At R895,000, you're getting a proven performer with that brilliant 2.0-litre diesel engine pumping out 180kW and 500Nm of torque, which is more than enough grunt to move this stylish coupe-SUV hybrid with authority. The 4Matic all-wheel drive and 9G-Tronic gearbox make it smooth as butter on our roads, while the MBUX system keeps you connected without being overly complicated. Yes, the exterior updates might be subtle, but when you're buying the most reliable Mercedes SUV on the market, you can forgive a conservative facelift. If you've got the budget and want German luxury with actual dependability, this GLC 300d is a solid buy.
