[CARS]: A Closer Look At Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d Coupe

The new generation of GLC is here and today we look at the changes made over the previous generation. Essentially the Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe trim is for a sportier look over the normal SUV. It also manages to be less practical too, so more form than function. Although it still is an incredibly capableSports Utility Vehicle.

It is bigger and longer than the previous gen by a few millimeters. Mercedes did update the design of the new GLC platform, a new set of matrix LED headlights or with the optional digital lights, that give you an amazing welcoming when approaching the vehicle. The grille is bigger with little stars, and with the AMG package for the GLC, a bigger and angrier lower air intake. More importantly for the coupe, is a more coupe silhouette on the side and depending on the optional wheels you get, they may look sporty of a more luxurious. The rear end is the more subdued and more awkward looking than the normal SUV trim, which has an impressive rear end. One thing they both share is the fake exhaust tips, which may be overlooked by customers, so it really doesn’t matter.

The interior is that of the smaller counterpart, the C-class. It has the same big central screen with the new MBUX infotainment system. Like most modern cars, they have a fully digital display with is customizable to the ideal driving scenario. Another thing we cannot fault is the seats and a fewdifferent materials used, you know that it is indeed a Mercedes model. The Boot space is reduced by 45 liters over the standard model, but with the shape of the opening in the boot, it will be easy loading heavy items.

Two engine configurations have been allocated for South Africa and they are both diesel mild hybrid engines. A GLC 220d and this GLC 300d. The bigger 300d has a 2-litreturbocharged diesel four-cylinder coupled with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. With 288 horsepower and a whopping 550 Nm of torque driving all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic gearbox. All this technology helps with efficiency, and the 300D is quoted at 5.5l/100km. AMG models might come later down the line in South Africa. The pricing on the GLC 300d coupe will set you back an insane R 1.5 million.

The price tag might upset GLC customers as essentially considering that the previous gen is an absolute bargain. It is still an amazing car; I think most customers will wait for the market to weaken on the new cars.