2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and AMG GLC 43 Review: A Comprehensive Overview

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and AMG GLC 43 Review: A Comprehensive Overview

Mercedes-Benz GLC Overview

The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLC came out last year with just one trim level, the GLC 300. For 2024, the GLC 300 has only small changes, but Mercedes has added a sportier version called the AMG GLC 43. For most buyers, the basic GLC 300 is the best choice. It has a 255-hp four-cylinder engine that uses a mild hybrid system to improve fuel economy and performance. It comes in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and is available in two trims (Exclusive and Pinnacle) with a few individual options to add features.

New AMG Trim

The new-for-2024 AMG GLC 43 trim seems fantastic. Like the base GLC, the AMG version uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine but with much more power. The AMG GLC 43 has 416 horsepower, which Mercedes says can go from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. In comparison, a similarly equipped GLC 300 4Matic (Mercedes’ term for all-wheel drive) does the 0-60 run in 6.1 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Expert Rating 8.0

The GLC is one of our favorite small luxury SUVs. It provides smooth and efficient power, a stylish interior, and many useful technology features. However, the latest GLC has become more expensive, and some other competing SUVs offer better value.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Performance: 8.5/10

How does the GLC-Class drive?

We tested the GLC 300, which has a four-cylinder engine and a mild hybrid system. It delivers impressively smooth acceleration, and the automatic transmission shifts quickly and responsively. At test track, our GLC test vehicle accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is an average time for a small luxury SUV with a base engine. Bringing that speed to a halt are strong, confident brakes that perform excellently both at maximum effort and during smooth, easy use.

The optional summer tires on our test GLC definitely contributed to its impressive braking and cornering grip. However, even without that extra tire grip, the GLC is a well-tuned machine that maintains composure around turns with natural athleticism. The steering is easy but not effortless, providing a nice balance of road feel without unnecessary heft. We know we’re being a bit poetic here, but just take a drive, and you’ll see what we mean.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Comfort: 8.0/10

How comfortable is the GLC-Class?

The GLC provides enough comfort to meet luxury-class expectations. It rides smoothly over most bumps, and the cabin is very quiet. However, we were less impressed with the front seats. The cushions are firm and supportive, but there’s nothing about them that stands out. The climate control offers excellent coverage through well-placed vents and has ample cooling capacity.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Interior: 8.0/10

How’s the interior?

The GLC’s cabin is visually appealing and comfortable. While it doesn’t stand out as much as it used to in its class, it still features the typical high-quality elements of a Mercedes interior. The MBUX user interface is one of the better touchscreen systems available, though finding specific functions can sometimes require navigating through deep menus. The steering wheel’s touch-sensitive controls also demand more attention to operate than traditional buttons and knobs.

The rest of the cabin is well-designed. There are plenty of seat adjustments to accommodate drivers of nearly all sizes, and large windows and well-placed mirrors improve outward visibility. Big door openings make it easy to get in and out. Though the second row is reasonably spacious, some competitors offer a reclining second-row bench that adds a sense of space and extra comfort, which the GLC lacks.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Technology: 8.5/10

How’s the tech?

One area where Mercedes-Benz continues to lead is technology. Our test GLC had the Burmester sound system, which we found produces an impressive listening experience. The onboard navigation system, enhanced with augmented reality for clear turn-by-turn directions, is one of the few that can compete with popular smartphone apps. If you prefer using your smartphone’s nav apps, Mercedes-Benz has one of the best wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrations we’ve seen. It displays 15 apps per screen, so you don’t have to constantly swipe to find your favorites.

Our test GLC had six USB-C ports, so everyone’s devices can charge at the same time. There’s also a wireless charger in the center console, which is nice to have but a bit tricky to access, especially if you have drinks in the cupholders. Although others have caught up, Mercedes’ voice recognition is still one of the best in the industry, and not just for the endless supply of “dad jokes” it can tell on command.

The GLC’s advanced driving aids provide excellent assistance in most situations. We found the adaptive cruise control to be a bit jerky at times, so if you have sensitive passengers, you might want to avoid using it. But everything else, from lane-keeping assistance to blind-spot warning, works as expected.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Storage: 8.0/10

How’s the storage?

One of the few areas where the previous GLC fell short was cargo space and interior storage. Mercedes-Benz has improved in both areas this year, though only modestly. Interior storage still feels a bit limited, and the use of available space isn’t as clever as in some of the GLC’s competitors.

The GLC’s official cargo capacity behind the rear seats (21.9 cubic feet) is below average. However, in our testing, we found the GLC to be quite practical in real-world situations. The Benz features convenient folding 40/20/40-split rear seatbacks that can be lowered nearly flat with the touch of a button in the cargo area. If you need to install car seats, the Isofix anchors and top tether anchors are easy to access. Large rear-facing seats may be a bit tight behind an occupied front seat, but this is common with most vehicles in this class.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Fuel Economy: 8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy?

We tested the GLC 300 4Matic, and it gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined in city/highway driving. That’s 2-3 mpg better than most similar SUVs. We also achieved an impressive 27.9 mpg on our standardized test route, indicating that the EPA numbers are likely accurate.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Value: 7.5/10

Is the GLC-Class a good value?

One of the best things about the new small Mercedes-Benz models is that they don’t feel like a lower-quality product — they’re just smaller versions of the larger flagship vehicles. This holds true for the GLC, which feels classy and solid throughout. Unfortunately, you pay for that solid build quality and true luxury experience. The Mercedes is one of the more expensive models overall, so if you’re a value-driven shopper, you might find better options elsewhere.

Mercedes’ warranty also lags behind the rest of the class. The basic and powertrain warranty lasts for four years/50,000 miles, with roadside assistance provided for that duration as well. No free scheduled maintenance is included.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Wildcard: 7.5/10

Designed for understatement is something we’ve come to expect from Mercedes-Benz. The GLC’s styling is clean and classic Mercedes and doesn’t break any new ground. That may be fine for some, but we believe there’s greater glory to be won when a little more risk is taken, and this is about as safe and small a step as one can take.

This might be forgiven if the GLC overdelivered with fun behind the wheel, but it doesn’t. It’s perfectly lovely, pleasant, and easy to drive every day. Wholly competent. But for this kind of money, we’d want a little more excitement.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Competitors

The 2024 GLC 300 competes with other luxury SUVs from around the world, including Germany, Japan, and South Korea. The top competitors include the BMW X3, Genesis GV70, and Volvo XC60.

Visit Budget Gari for More

Reddit

Facebook

Pinterest