2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe Starting at $53,550

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 coupe exhibits a high-riding SUV-like disposition coupled with a more striking demeanor owing to its swooping rear roofline. Alas, the latter’s presence encroaches upon the cargo area and rear-seat headspace, inevitably incurring such compromises as the requisite toll for entry into the grandiloquent pageantry of compact luxury SUVs. Positioned in direct contention with the Audi Q5 Sportback, the BMW X4, and the Infiniti QX55, this inclined Benz abounds in a sophisticated ambiance, adorned with a plethora of opulent standard features for the delight of its occupants.

Beneath the resplendent facade lies a 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain that seamlessly integrates with a standard all-wheel-drive system. Though the 2022 GLC300 offers a supple ride and agile handling, it fails to match the exhilaration exhibited by its high-performance brethren, the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 and GLC63.

As for updates in the 2022 iteration, the distinction lies in the inclusion of an assortment of novel standard features. Every trim level now boasts automatic high-beam headlights, passive hands-free entry, parking damage detection, rear-seat USB ports, and a USB-C adapter cable. Additionally, the available palette of paint colors has expanded to incorporate the Starling Blue Metallic hue.

In the realm of pricing, the GLC300 4Matic commands a base price of $53,550. To maximize the coupe’s attention-commanding form, we would recommend opting for the AMG Line with Night package, replete with black exterior accents, a chrome diamond-block grille, and AMG-style 20-inch wheels.

This package also enhances the interior with a sportier-looking steering wheel and aluminum pedals. Additionally, the illuminated star logo for the grille imparts a striking nocturnal appearance. To augment the cabin’s sumptuousness, one could select from various leather upholstery options, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and heat and noise-insulated side glass, effectively mitigating interior noise.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe Review, Pricing, and Specs

The heart of the GLC300 coupe resides in a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which bestows an output of 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power is managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, channeled to all four wheels through the standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Though we have previously driven the GLC300 coupe, our most recent experiences have been limited to the SUV body style, and as such, we can only extrapolate our impressions regarding the coupe’s performance. However, based on our conjecture, the coupe’s suspension settings strike an optimal balance, imparting a tinge of driving exhilaration while ensuring a smooth and bump-free daily commute. The availability of five distinct drive modes allows the driver to tailor the coupe’s handling to their inclinations or prevailing road conditions.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the GLC300 coupe is estimated to achieve 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, marginally trailing the four-cylinder BMW X4, rated at 23 mpg city and 29 highway. We regretfully lack the opportunity to subject the Mercedes to our exhaustive 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, a test simulating real-world mpg.

Within the GLC coupe’s opulent cabin, a swanky Euro flair emanates from the cabin design. The center stack gracefully curves into the console, while the elevated floating touchscreen imparts a thoroughly contemporary ambiance. The circular air vents serve as an aesthetic motif, fusing retro and contemporary design elements. While the front seats offer ample space, the sloping roofline detracts from the second-row headroom. Cargo capacity is modest, with 17 cubic feet available with the rear seats in use, expanding to 50 cubic feet when folded. This falls short of some rival small crossovers, such as the Acura RDX, which offers 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row and 59 cubes behind its first row.

The GLC coupe incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s novel infotainment system, exhibiting commendable user-friendliness and a marked advancement over its predecessor. The system is governed by a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen, replete with dual USB ports and turn-by-turn navigation. Standardizing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration further bolsters the system’s technological prowess. The array of tech options includes a wireless device charger, an enhanced Burmester audio system, and a sprawling 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Mercedes boasts an extensive range of both standard and optional driver-assistance technologies that aim to avert accidents and augment the driving experience. For comprehensive insights into the GLC300’s crash-test results, consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Prominent safety features encompass standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, standard blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, alongside available adaptive cruise control.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe proffers warranty coverage on par with competing SUVs from esteemed brands like BMW and Audi. However, Acura and Lexus outdo Mercedes in terms of extended powertrain warranties. The limited warranty spans four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty exhibits identical coverage.

Specifications

ENGINE TYPE: Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, with direct fuel injection.

DISPLACEMENT: 122 cu in, 1991 cc POWER: 241 hp @ 5500 rpm TORQUE: 273 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm