2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe puts a dramatic spin on the GLC-class SUV, which we review separately. Donning a lower roofline, the coupe delivers a more aggressive appearance but sacrifices some back-seat headroom and overall cargo space. The same rings true for its suave competitors such as the Audi Q5 Sportback, BMW X4, and Infiniti QX55. The GLC300 coupe is powered by a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder bolted to a nine-speed automatic transmission and is only offered with all-wheel drive. Offered as a standalone trim, the GLC coupe features a host of high-quality cabin materials and safety features with plenty of optional equipment to choose from. While the GLC300 isn’t a big dog in terms of performance, its nimble handling and smooth ride speak louder than its bark. For more power in a similar package, check out the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 and GLC63 coupe.
What’s New for 2023?
Although the SUV model is completely redesigned for 2023, the previous-generation GLC300 coupe carries over for now. The only change is that previously optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is now standard.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The GLC300 coupe has enough standard amenities to keep the average shopper in this segment smiling. However, to optimize the coupe’s look-at-me shape, we’d opt for the AMG Line with Night package. It adds black exterior trim, a chrome diamond-block grille, and AMG-style 20-inch rims. It also dresses up the inside with a sportier-looking steering wheel and aluminum pedals. We’d also add the illuminated star logo for the grille that looks striking at night. We’d increase the cabin’s richness with one of the leather upholstery options, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and the heat and noise-insulated side glass that really helps keep interior noise down.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The GLC300 coupe gets its muscle from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that kicks out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels via a standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. We drove a GLC300 coupe several years ago and have more recent experience with the SUV body style, but we’ve never tested the sloped-back one at the track. Still, we can extrapolate our impressions and say that the coupe’s suspension settings are stiff enough to add a frisson of driver excitement, yet smooth enough to ensure that your daily commute is free of bumps and jolts. It also comes with five available drive modes, allowing the driver to tailor the coupe’s handling to suit their mood or driving conditions.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The GLC300 coupe is estimated to earn 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. However, those numbers are slightly lower than the four-cylinder BMW X4, which is rated at 21 mpg city and 28 highway. We haven’t had a chance to test the Mercedes on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which simulates its real-world mpg and is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about the ‘s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Cabin design within the GLC coupe brims with swank Euro flair. The center stack curves gracefully into the console, and the floating touchscreen that sits aloft gives the cabin a thoroughly modern appearance. Circular air vents are a running motif within the interior, and they have a look that’s both retro and contemporary. The GLC coupe’s front seats are spacious, but headroom in the second row is compromised by the vehicle’s sloping roofline. As far as cargo capacity goes, this SUV provides 17 cubic feet with the rear seats in use and 50 cubes with those seats folded. That’s a lot less than you’ll get with some small crossovers. For example, the Acura RDX offers 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row and 59 cubes behind its first row of seating.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
The GLC coupe comes with Mercedes-Benz’s new infotainment system. Overall, this setup is pretty user friendly, and it’s an improvement on the outgoing technology. The system is governed by a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen. All models come with two USB ports and turn-by-turn navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are standard. The list of tech options includes a wireless device charger and an upgraded Burmester audio system.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Still, the Mercedes has a plethora of standard and optional driver-assistance technology that is designed to help avoid accidents and make the driving experience easier. For more information about the GLC300’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 forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe offers warranty coverage that equals the protection offered by rival SUVs from brands such as BMW and Audi. However, Acura and Lexus offer longer powertrain warranties.
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
ENGINE TYPE:turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 122 cu in, 1991 cc
Power: 241 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 9-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 113 in
Length: 186.2 in
Width: 74.4 in Height: 63.0 in
Curb weight (C/D est): 4050 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 5.9 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 17.6 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.7 sec
Top speed: 135 mph
FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST):
EPA city/highway: 21/28 mpg
More Features and Specs
