The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC is not bringing massive changes. However, the luxury SUV comes with a lot of equipment and offers plenty of excitement to its owners. The new model is coming out late in 2020 and we could see some significant improvements under the hood.
Well, the car received a huge facelift for the 2020 season. So, cosmetic updates are still fresh, outside and inside. Also, the German carmaker updated the engine room. Still, this is the segment where changes require more frequent updates and 24/7 development. That is why we believe that already in 2021, Mercedes is going to improve its hybrid system on the GLC.
Finally, the most attention in the 2020 lineup drew the coupe version of the SUV. It is not unusual for premium models now. More and more luxury SUVs are getting such treatment. However, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe also adds an exclusive setup for a V8 engine, while the hybrid coupe could be the new member of the lineup for the next season.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Pros and Cons
A lot of pros and only one downside. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC will be more expensive than most of its rivals. The base model starts at $42,500, while the Coupe version adds $6,000. Probably the best offer is for the GLC 350e hybrid. With a price tag of $50,000, we think it is a good deal.
For such an amount of money, buyers should expect a lot, and Mercedes must deliver. Well, the German carmaker has never disappointed us. The GLC is one of the most comfortable models in the compact segment. Luxury appearance is not just there to cover downsides. Driver’s are praising handling and maneuvering of the new model. Occupants in the back seats have enough room. The fuel economy is at average with the entry-level engine. However, you can’t expect too much from a V8 biturbo model that bursts 470 horsepower.
Models and Engines
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC will offer two lines of trims – one for the standard body, and other for coupe SUV. Well, there are a few similar packages. For example, both lines are starting with the GLC 300 bundle that includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant. Still, the coupe model won’t offer a 2WD, but only the well-known 4Matic AWD system. Anyway, a 2.0 engine is good for 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The GLC Coupe 4Matic accelerates 0-60 mph slower than the standard model (the difference is 0.1 sec).
If you stick up to the 2.0-liter engine, you can upgrade it with an electric motor. An 85 kW battery provides an additional 60 hp and 140 lb-ft for a total of 315 ponies and 413 pound-feet of twisting power.
Read also: 2020 Mercedes GLE Release Date USA
AMG GLC (All Configurations)
Of course, Mercedes is also delivering the special package built around the performance-tuned engines. A compact crossover is also using a V6 biturbo setup for the power boost. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG 43 is getting the energy from a 3.0-liter displacement, capable to produce 362 ponies and 384 lb-ft. The 0-60 mph time drops by 1.5 seconds. The AMG GLC 43 will do that in 4.7 seconds.
That is not all since the carmaker also enhances these numbers with the AMG GLC 63 model. In this case, the vehicle is using a biturbo V8 with 490 hp and 480 lb-ft. Extra power takes one second off the 0-60 sprint time. Wait, there’s more! Top of the line 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe model is AMG S 63. Engineers are squeezing additional 34 ponies and 37 lb-ft from the V8 engine. This is also the most expensive offer in the lineup with a starting price of $82,000.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Features and Equipment
It would take a lot of time to list all the base features of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC. Plus, the higher-end models are offering some incredible accessories. But, let’s try to mention some of the equipment that will definitely make you pick this compact SUV.
The standard GLC 300 package includes a power liftgate and heated front seats. The company redesigned front headlights. However, the most impressive update happened to the MBUX infotainment system. The highlight is a 10-inch touchscreen, while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. The safety is also at the highest level, with emergency brakes and blind-spot monitor available for the GLC 300. The plug-in hybrid version is coming with a similar bundle of features and the only difference is a standard 4Matic AWD.
The AMG lineup upgrades the offer both with a powerful engine and advanced features. The drivetrain system is getting special tuning and elements for suspension, transmission, and exhaust.
The AMG GLC 43 also has a similar set of features compared to the GLC 300 but comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (385 hp, 384 lb-ft) and all-wheel drive. It also adds a few extra special features such as a sport-tuned air suspension and a performance-enhanced transmission and exhaust. The premium audio system is definitely the thing you will fall in love at the first hearing. Safety gets an enhancement with a self-parking system, while genuine leather upholstery improves the comfort and premium impression.
