Overall Rating
Updated on: November 7, 2020
Automotive Journalist
Mercedes Benz came out with the GLK Class in 2008. It saw a decent amount of sales throughout its lifecycle. The German giant decided to revamp the whole GLK platform in 2015 and the GLC Class was introduced to the world later that year. The GLC managed to grab everyone’s attention mainly due to its futuristic styling.
The Mercedes Benz GLC remained one of the highest-selling models in 2019 and for 2020, Mercedes has introduced a refreshed version of the GLC in hopes to keep its customers interested. The Benz is powered by a 2 liter inline-4 bi-turbo engine which is accompanied by a 9-speed automatic transmission.
See detailed review »Comfortable ride quality
Powerful AMG option
Spacious interiors
Advanced MBUX infotainment system
Advanced safety features
Expensive top-end trims
Low resale value
MBUX infotainment system
Updated safety tech
Updated front fascia
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$41,404 / 24 mpg
RMV: $51,150
Excellent deal$9,746 Below
Akron, OH
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$39,986 / 25 mpg
RMV: $47,365
Excellent deal$7,379 Below
Grapevine, TX
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$39,986 / 25 mpg
RMV: $47,365
Excellent deal$7,379 Below
Grapevine, TX
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$39,986 / 25 mpg
RMV: $47,365
Excellent deal$7,379 Below
Grapevine, TX
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$39,986 / 25 mpg
RMV: $47,365
Excellent deal$7,379 Below
Grapevine, TX
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$42,890 / 24 mpg
RMV: $50,120
Excellent deal$7,230 Below
Peoria, IL
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$44,154 / 24 mpg
RMV: $51,150
Excellent deal$6,996 Below
Peoria, IL
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$43,588 / 24 mpg
RMV: $50,120
Excellent deal$6,532 Below
Grand Rapids, MI
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$18,963 / 71,263 miles
RMV: $24,752
Excellent Deal$5,789 Below
Warner Robins, GA
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$24,950 / 52,716 miles
RMV: $32,013
Excellent Deal$7,063 Below
Woodside, NY
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$29,950 / 27,775 miles
RMV: $38,097
Excellent Deal$8,147 Below
Bronx, NY
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$29,950 / 19,125 miles
RMV: $37,756
Excellent Deal$7,806 Below
Bronx, NY
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$29,800 / 29,872 miles
RMV: $37,544
Excellent Deal$7,744 Below
Somerville, NJ
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$24,500 / 37,687 miles
RMV: $30,588
Excellent Deal$6,088 Below
Elizabeth, NJ
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$30,250 / 36,620 miles
RMV: $37,705
Excellent Deal$7,455 Below
New Orleans, LA
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
$28,262 / 25,319 miles
RMV: $35,188
Excellent Deal$6,926 Below
Bellerose, NY
$42500
4dr SUV
5
RWD
121 cu.in.
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
273 lbs.-ft. @ 1800 rpm
9-speed shiftable automatic
Unibody
Independent front multi-link suspension
Independent rear multi-link suspension
13.5/13.5
113.1 in.
63.7 in.
74.8 in.
64.7 in.
3889 lbs.
5 in.
56.5 cu ft.
3500 lbs.
6.1 sec.
15.5 sec.
22/27/24 mpg
469.8 mi.
4 yr. /50000 mi.
4 yr./ 50000 mi.
4 yr. /50000 mi.
4 yr. / 50000 mi.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Pricing And Features
Engine And Performance
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Safety
7.4
OVERALL RATING
$42,500 - $44,500
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GLC 300 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) | Starting at $42,500 MSRP | (22/24/27) | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm, 2 L, Inline 4, Premium unleaded (recommended) | 9-speed Automatic | rear wheel drive | 5 | |
GLC 300 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) | Starting at $44,500 MSRP | (22/24/27) | 494 hp @ 5000 rpm, Inline 4, Premium unleaded (recommended) | 9-speed Automatic | all wheel drive | 5 |
Overall Rating
With the configuration on offer, the Mercedes Benz GLC is capable of pumping out 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It is also offered in both RWD and AWD options. The later one is for those of you who feel like ditching the highway for a backroad on Fridays. The GLC is accompanied by the BMW X3, the Audi Q5, and the Volvo XC60 in the segment. All of these vehicles offer an all-wheel-drive system with go-anywhere capabilities. Well, almost.
7.0/10
Pricing and Features
7.0/10
Engine and Performance
4.0/10
Fuel Economy
9.0/10
Interior
8.0/10
Exterior
9.0/10
Safety
The 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC is offered in a couple of trim. The only difference between the two trims is the drive configuration. The GLC can be opted with both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configuration. For the ones looking to squeeze out some driving pleasure from there SUVs, an AMG version is also on offer. And for the nature lovers out there, Merc also offers a hybrid GLC.
Trim |
GLC 300 SUV |
---|---|
MSRP (RWD) |
$42,500 |
MSRP (AWD) |
$44,500 |
Key Features |
Eco start-stop system |
Torque vectoring brakes |
|
Active brake assist |
|
Key-less entry and start |
|
64 color ambient lighting |
|
Privacy glass |
|
Heated front seats |
|
Power liftgate |
We recommend the all-wheel-drive version of the GLC. It costs only a fraction more than the standard version and offers more practicality. The AWD system would come in handy especially in areas where it snows.
The Mercedes Benz GLC is powered by a 2-liter inline-4 powerhouse. The engine works in tandem with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This combination is capable of pushing out 255 horsepower at 5800rpm. The four cylinders also manage to pump out 273 lb-ft of torque at as low as 1800RPM. This wide powerband makes it very easy to drive on both the highways and the city roads. The engine feels peppy enough in case you feel like flooring it every now and then.
Models |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$44,500 |
$43,950 |
$43,300 |
$40,195 |
Engine |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Inline-4 |
2.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-4 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | FWD |
Transmission |
9-Speed automatic |
8-Speed automatic |
7-Speed DCT |
8-Speed A/T |
Power |
255hp@5,800rpm | 248hp@5,200rpm |
248hp@5,000rpm |
250hp@5,500rpm |
Torque |
273lb-ft@1,800rpm | 258lb-ft@1,450rpm |
273lb-ft@1,600rpm |
258lb-ft@1,500rpm |
On paper, all of these vehicles feel pretty similar. All of them are powered by 2-liter inline-4 engines. Even the power and torque figures from these engines are quite similar. The Mercedes with 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque manages to leave the competition behind- at least on paper. The BMW and Audi both produce 248 horsepower, and 258 lb-ft of torque and 273lb-ft of torque respectively. The Volvo manages 250hp and 258 lb-ft of torque which in itself isn't bad.
When it comes to "off the line" acceleration figures, family SUV don't leave much to desire. Having said that, times are changing and the 2-liter bi-turbo motor manages to push the GLC to 60mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLC takes 14.6 seconds to cross the quarter mile mark which might not seem impressive at first but it actually is! The GLC isn't something you would take to the drag strips on weekends. But Mercedes offers plenty of options and in case you ask for more power, there is an AMG version on offer as well.
Models |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
5.8 sec |
6.2 sec |
5.9 sec |
5.4 sec |
Quarter Mile |
14.6 sec |
15.1 sec |
14.5 sec |
14.9 sec |
Top Speed | 130 MPH | 130 MPH | 135 MPH | 140 MPH |
Engine |
2.0L Bi-Turbo Inline-4 |
2.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-4 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
The Merc, when compared to the competition, does pretty well. Only the Volvo manages to beat the GLC in terms of 0-60 acceleration. The Audi manages to run the quickest quarter-mile in the group mainly due to its Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The Audi takes 14.5 seconds followed by the Merc’s 14.6, then the Volvo at 14.9 and BMW comes last at 15.1 seconds.
With all the weight these small luxury SUVs carry, it is imperative that they are equipped with brakes that complement the other aspects of the vehicle.
The GLC is equipped with 13.5-inch rotors in the front and 12.6-inch rotors in the rear. These brakes manage to bring the GLC to a complete stop from 60 MPH in 115 feet.
Model |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Rotors Front |
13.5" |
13" |
13.3" |
13.6" |
Brake Rotors Rear |
12.6" |
13" |
13" |
12.6" |
Curb Weight |
3891 lbs |
4034 lbs |
4057 lbs |
4109 lbs |
60-0 MPH |
115 ft |
114 ft |
112 ft |
114 ft |
The Volvo has the largest front brake rotors in this group. At 13.5 inches, the GLC’s rotors are only a tiny bit smaller than the Volvo’s. Even though the Mercedes weighs the least in this group, it takes the longest distance to stop. The Benz could have been equipped with better brakes.
Offering two unique driving modes- Normal mode and the Sport mode. While the normal driving mode permits responsive controlling and a comfortable ride, the sport mode hardens the suspensions and increases the steering response, in any case, the GLC handles just like an SUV should.
With the kitted 4Matic system, the GLC can tackle mild off-roading with ease. Be it bumps or potholes, it manages to take them on with ease. This Merc might be classified as a luxury crossover but it can still easily tackle the challenges you might want to throw at it.
When it comes to fuel economy, the Inline engines are believed to be better than a V or a Flat configuration. The four-banger powering the GLC is the most powerful among the selected lot. Yet, it manages to equally fuel-efficient as most other cars in the competition. The Merc manages to run 21 miles for a gallon in the city, while on the highway, it will cruise 28 miles for the same amount of gas.
Model |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (City) |
21 |
24 |
22 |
22 |
MPG (Highway) |
28 |
29 |
27 |
29 |
MPG (Combined) |
24 |
27 |
24 |
24 |
Fuel Capacity | 17.4 gallons | 17.2 gallons | 18.5 gallons | 18.8 gallons |
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) | 365/487/417 miles | 413/499/447 miles |
407/500/444 miles |
414/545/451 miles |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
7.3 |
6.8 |
7.4 |
7.7 |
The Bimmer manages to be the most efficient of the lot, with figures of 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on a highway and combined MPG of 27.
The 2020 GLC's interior is comfortable and luxurious, just as it should be in any of the cars that boast the 'three-pointed star' on its grille. The cabin is spacious, but for the sloping roofline, the headroom for the rear passengers might be a little constricted. The seats offer sufficient support and well-cushioned. They are also ventilated and have heating capabilities.
The seats provide ample legroom, but the headroom might be a problem for taller folks. The cabin is laden with premium materials. There are also many cubby holes and convenient storing places throughout the cabin.
Model |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.8/57.3/40.8 |
41.1/57.6/40.3 |
41.7/57.7/41.0 |
38.0/58.2/41.5 |
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.5/56.5/37.3 |
39.1/56.0/36.4 |
39.3/56.5/37.8 |
38.0/56.3/38.0 |
In terms of cargo space, the GLC is far from the best. With the second row up, this provides only 19.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which falls well short of the class average.
However, the second row is foldable, which increases the cargo space to 56.5 cubic feet.
Model |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Capacity |
19.4 cu.ft. |
28.7 cu.ft. |
25.1 cu.ft. |
29.7 cu.ft. |
In terms of cargo capacity, the Volvo XC60 is the most practical in this bunch. It offers 29.7 cubic feet of cargo storage. The BMW is a close second with 28.7 cubic feet. The Audi and the Merc offer 25.1 and 19.4 cubic feet of storage respectively. Volvo offers the most cargo volume mainly due to the boxy shape.
The infotainment system of the 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC 300 SUV is probably of the most advanced systems on offer in today's market. However you might take some time to adjust but eventually, you’ll get a hang of it. This 10.25-inch “MBUX” infotainment system really is a gem. It is buttery smooth to use and offers immediate feedback to your touch.
The standard infotainment features that are available in this Luxury crossover are -
The 2020 GLC received a mid-cycle refresh and looks beefed up than before. It has an unmistakable road presence, with its tall stance. The front fascia is redesigned but keeps a few cues from its predecessor. The grille is surrounded by LED DRL headlamps and sports a healthy amount of chrome. The curvy design elements give it the unmistakable crossover look.
There is an evident conventional overtone to the whole sculpt of the body alongside a sweet roofline that tucks itself down to the rear. Weighing 4000 pounds, the crossover is lighter than most of its rivals and is also more compact as well as incorporating a longer wheelbase.
Model |
Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC |
BMW X3 xDrive30i |
Audi Q5 Premium Quattro |
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight |
4057 lbs |
4034 lbs |
4057 lbs |
4109 lbs |
Length |
183.3" |
185.9" |
183.6" |
184.6" |
Width |
74.4" |
74.4" |
74.5" |
78.7" |
Height |
64.5" |
66.0" |
65.3" |
65.3" |
Ground Clearance |
5.0" |
8.0" |
8.2" |
8.5" |
Wheelbase |
113.1" |
112.1" |
111.0" |
112.8" |
The Volvo XC60 is the longest in this bunch with the longest wheelbase. This is also the reason why the Volvo offers the most interior space to its passengers. All the other vehicles are fairly matched in terms of exterior dimensions.
The 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC has not been rated by the NHTSA or the IIHS. Having said that, based on the crash scores of other Mercedes Benz vehicles, the GLC can be expected to be pretty good on the safety front. Some of the safety features are-
Both the GLC and the X3 are very impressive vehicles. Both of them offer a good amount of luxury and comfort to the passengers. Even in terms of money, there is not a lot to differentiate these vehicles. As far as ride quality is concerned, the GLC is slightly better. In terms of tech, both the Merc and the BMW are very well matched.
Mercedes-Benz GLC vs Audi Q5
The Q5 and the GLC are the best from their respective brands in terms of what they offer. But on paper, it’s the Q5 that clean sweeps the GLC in every parameter. The Q5 delivers better mileage, performance, towing capacity and interior space. The GLC, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious interior and should be your choice, if you prefer to be chauffeur-driven.
Again, there is not a lot to differentiate these vehicles. Both the vehicles are very comfortable and luxurious according to their price. In terms of money, the Volvo is slightly cheaper than the Mercedes but the Mercedes offers much better reliability and peace of mind.
Not a lot can be said to separate the abovementioned cars. This is a very competitive segment and these cars are very closely matched. However, the Audi trumps the other vehicles by a narrow margin. Reliability has never been an issue for the Germans but the Audi offers a slightly better ride quality and is a little more advanced than the Merc in terms of tech. To top it all, it also looks better and costs a little less.
Car Name | Deals | Starting Price | Number of Listings |
---|---|---|---|
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 0 | $41,658 | 4991 Listings |
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 0 | $39,995 | 17 Listings |
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 1 | $40,995 | 165 Listings |
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 16 | $39,986 | 521 Listings |
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 12 | $35,334 | 378 Listings |
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 39 | $29,741 | 678 Listings |
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 4 | $34,986 | 37 Listings |
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 13 | $27,875 | 382 Listings |
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 21 | $20,000 | 517 Listings |
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 55 | $24,523 | 1807 Listings |
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 75 | $10,950 | 1102 Listings |
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 18 | $22,962 | 451 Listings |
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 46 | $18,990 | 763 Listings |
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 2 | $23,791 | 72 Listings |
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | 17 | $18,163 | 314 Listings |