2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Test Drive

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC SUV is Tri-Star Brand’s Best Selling Model.

Blending style along with versatility, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class ranks as the German automaker’s top selling SUV model, which consists of no less than eight different SUV versions including the GLA, GLB, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS and the venerable G-Class SUV. The Coupe models are not really coupes at all but are styled as such. The GLC lineup consists of several variations – the 300, 300 4MATIC, 350e 4MATIC, AMG GLC 43 and AMG GLC 65. We’ll deal here with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz 300 4MATIC.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Overview

The GLC Class first appeared in 2016 and has advanced progressively through the 2020 model year. The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is a four-door, two-row five passenger SUV that has plenty of room behind the second row for personal gear or groceries. The fold flat second row is split 40/20/40 to provide a variety of cargo carrying possibilities. The GLC 300 comes two ways – with or without the 4MATIC 4WD system, which is a $2,000. option. A power liftgate opens for access to the spacious cargo area, which also features storage beneath the floor.

Cargo capacity is from 19.4 cubic feet with seats up, to 56.5 cubic feet seats folded flat. Towing capacity is 3,500 Pounds.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC As Teste

My test vehicle was a 2020 model Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC SUV that had its base price set at $44,500. The exterior was finished in designo Cardinal Red metallic, while the interior was executed in designo quilted Platinum White pearl and black Nappa leather with a black fabric headliner. Trim accents were done in natural grain Black Ash and brushed aluminum. The final count and amount came to $64,605. After factoring in the special paint, extensive optional equipment and value added packages as well as the destination and delivery fee.

PROPULSION

Power for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC is provided by a longitudinally front mounted 2.0-liter, inline turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower in a range from 5,800-6,100 rpm along with 273 pound feet of torque at 1,800-4,000 rpm. Energy is geared through a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4MATIC permanent AWD system. Estimated EPA mileage figures were 21-mpg city and 28-mpg highway.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Styling

In the world of cookie cutter designed market similarities, the GLC’s exterior features a long wheelbase, short overhangs, a long hood and sleek profile that make it standout. New front and rear styling includes all-LED lighting, and sporty lower bodywork and chrome skidplate inserts. The clean, muscular lines and coupe-like side windows render it immediately as a modern Mercedes-Benz. There are new wheel options and low-profile roof rails; the redesigned GLC is a pleasant standout.

Moving to the inside, smooth flow and function are key, with the GLC’s cabin setting a class standard for style and craftsmanship in a highly competitive marketplace. The center console is topped by a wide new display with more intuitive controls, a cascade of rich wood, and a sensuousness that continues throughout the cabin. Color and trim options, and fresh new technologies create an up to date environment that effectively covers all the bases. The GLC 300’s spacious interior is more [practical than a C-Class. The interior receives the latest MBUX infotainment system with redundant controls and a newly available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

COMFORT, CONVENIENCE AND CONNECTIVITY

The 2020 GLC-class interior features attractive materials, excellent build quality, and comfortable passenger amenities. Luxurious standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats with heated cushions. The GLC 300 can also be upgraded with leather seating surfaces, a head-up display, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and more.

Mercedes equips every 2020 GLC with a versatile infotainment system that features a variety of contemporary control inputs. The standard 10.25-inch touchscreen supports the company’s latest MBUX software that responds to voice commands. The system also can be operated by touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel or an intuitive touchpad on the center console. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as standard. An upgraded audio system and wireless charging are optional.

The Mercedes GLC also offers all the latest driver assistance key safety features including: Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.

PERFORMANCE

While the Mercedes GLC 300 4MATIC lacks the driving verve of the AMG-tuned versions for maximum enjoyment it at least delivers a smooth and quiet ride. With more horsepower than before and handling characteristics that approach a sporty level.

IN CONCLUSION

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATICand a competitive warranty coverage compared with premium rivals. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles / Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles. Unfortunately there’s no complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Other choices in the GLC lineup offer varying attributes such as hybrid efficiency, sportier performance and higher power.

SPECIFICATIONS 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC

Base Price:              $44,500.
Price as Tested:         $64,605.

Engine Type and Size:    2.0-liter, inline turbocharged 4-cylinder with High Pressure Direct Injection.

Horsepower (bhp):        255 @ 5,800-6,100 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.):      273 @ 1,800-4,000 rpm

Transmission:            9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Drive Train:            Longitudinally mounted front engine / 4MATIC AWD.

Suspension:            Four Wheel Independent
Front – Four link.
Rear – 5-arm multilink.

Brakes:               Power-assisted four-wheel discs with ABS, BA and ESC, with adaptive braking technology.

Tires:            Goodyear Eagle Sport 235/45 R20 105V front – 235/40 R20 108V rear mounted on 5-“Y”-spoke silver painted AMG alloy wheels.

Wheelbase:            113.1  inches
Length Overall:       183.3  inches
Width:                 74.4  inches – w/o mirrors – 82.4” with
Height:                64.7  inches
Curb Weight:          3,977  lbs.
Turning Circle:        38.7  ft.
Fuel Capacity:         17.4  gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates:   21            mpg city / 28-mpg highway
Drag Coefficient:      Not listed
0 – 60 mph:            6.1 seconds

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