2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Overview

Following the introduction of the redesigned C-class sedan, Mercedes-Benz has performed a similar makeover on the 2023 GLC-class SUV. Mechanically similar to the sedan—and like the sedan equally hard to tell from its predecessor—the 2023 GLC shares the C-class’s standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 48-volt hybrid system, and nine-speed automatic transmission; a plug-in hybrid model will join the lineup later on. The GLC’s interior gains the same tech upgrades as the C-class sedan’s, including the large, vertically-oriented touchscreen infotainment display and advanced driver-assistance features. The styling makeover has resulted in subtle visual differences between the new GLC and the old one, but a longer wheelbase and slight stretch in overall length is said to improve cargo and passenger space, albeit only slightly. We expect to see the 2023 GLC-class SUV on sale in early 2023.

What’s New for 2023?

The GLC-class is all-new for 2023 and although the outgoing model was offered in both a squareback and fastback “coupe” body style, so far Mercedes has only showed the former.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

GLC300

$45,000 (est)

GLC300 4Matic

$47,000 (est)

Mercedes-Benz hasn’t released pricing for the 2023 GLC-class lineup yet, but we expect it to be offered in both rear- and all-wheel-drive variants. When we learn more about the SUV’s pricing and features, we’ll report that information here.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

All 2023 GLC-class models will wear the GLC300 badge and are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A 48-volt hybrid system helps augment the powertrain, which is good for 258 horsepower. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard as is rear drive, and Mercedes’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system is optional. We liked the GLC300 we sampled on our introductory drive.

More on the GLC-Class SUV

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy estimates for the 2023 GLC-class SUV yet, but we expect to see similar numbers to the outgoing model and the Benz’s key rivals. The 2022 model was rated for 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we’ll take the GLC300 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route and publish its results here. For more information about the GLC-class’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The GLC-class’s cabin wears nicely chosen upscale materials and a modernized design with more interestingly-shaped air vents on the dashboard and heavily digitized control of the infotainment and HVAC systems. A new steering wheel features touch-sensitive control buttons, which didn’t work particularly well in the C300 sedan, and all models come standard with heated front seats with memory settings and adjustable lumbar support. Ambient lighting, a power-operated sunroof, and a power rear liftgate are also standard. Like other Mercedes models, the GLC-class can be heavily optioned with a host of luxurious features, including a panoramic sunroof, illuminated door sill plates, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

Mirroring the offerings in the new C-class sedan, the GLC comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment setup. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display is relays the important mechanical and speed information. An 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen swoops up from the center console and is canted ever so slightly toward the driver. The system can recognize voice commands and features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In-dash navigation is optional and it comes with an augmented reality feature that overlays directions via an image of the road ahead on the display. Other notable optional features include a head-up display and a Burmester premium stereo system. There are no physical buttons for the HVAC system nor a knob for the audio volume; the systems are controlled though the touch screen, which in our view is a step backwards in user-friendliness.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The GLC-class will offer a host of optional driver-assistance features, but only basics such as automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring are standard. Going for the optional Driver Assistance package adds more advanced tech. For more information about the GLC-class’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard blind-spot monitoring Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes-Benz provides competitive warranty coverage compared with premium rivals. However, the German automaker doesn’t offer the complimentary maintenance that BMW and Jaguar do.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance