2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Overview
Understated elegance has long been a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz. That descriptor is perfectly applicable to the German automotive manufacturer’s SUV line as well, not least of all the 2023 GLC SUV. The changes Mercedes-Benz has made for 2023 are appropriately subtle. There’s certainly nothing jarring about the GLC SUV’s somewhat more streamlined exterior with its rounded edges, a single (as opposed to double) horizontal bar on the grille, and a slightly longer wheelbase, affording a bit more room inside. The interior changes are more obvious, but still in keeping with the notion of understated elegance: a higher-tech look to the well, higher-tech equipment. The old round gauges are history, replaced by a 12.3-inch digital screen. But both this addition and the larger (11.9-inch) center touch screen are ergonomically positioned. Everything is where it should be, without screaming for the driver’s attention. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV may have the stuff to take at least some roads less traveled; but wherever you’re headed, this vehicle will take you there in comfort and with class.
The Perfect Ride for…
The driver whose idea of a rugged weekend is a hike followed by a bubble bath in a five-star hotel suite. With nearly 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV has ample room for gear. And passengers can take that winding country road in complete comfort. Not only does this SUV afford generous head, hip, and leg room. Hips and legs will also be warmed by heated seats, when needed, and cooled by ventilated seats in both the rear and front. On chilly days, your hands will appreciate the optional heated steering wheel. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV will also serve nicely as a commuter vehicle, thanks to the fuel economy offered by the (still zippy) hybrid setup, the only engine available when the GLC SUV first hits the US market.
Drive and Handling
Gone are the multiple engine options for previous GLC sports-utes. For the 2023 model, Mercedes-Benz offers only the turbocharged, 2L, 4-cylinder (inline) gas engine paired with a 48-volt electric motor. Coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission, this hybrid powertrain kicks out 258 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque. With both the standard rear-wheel drive model and the optional 4Matic all-wheel drive system, this SUV zips up to 60 mph in a respectable 6.2 seconds. An electronic governor limits the top speed to 130 mph.
Those subtle exterior design tweaks have resulted in improved aerodynamics, which in turn facilitate handling. The improved aerodynamics, combined with the well-insulated body shell and windshield, make for a quiet, smooth ride—just what you’d expect from a luxury brand. The staggered tires, mounted on 19-inch wheels, also grip the road nicely.
Key Features
Although the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV is not the most rugged off-roader, the Level 2 Drive Pilot system will prove invaluable for dodging rocks and potholes. This driver assistance technology features what Mercedes-Benz calls a “transparent hood.” A series of cameras provide views of the road underneath the front of the SUV.
Other driver assistance options include adaptive cruise control, active steering assist with lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition, hill-descent control, and active-parking assist. Among the sexier high-tech features is the MBUX infotainment system, Mercedes-Benz offers several interface choices: pressing the touchscreen, using controls on the steering wheel, or activating voice control by saying, “Hey, Mercedes.” By upgrading to MBUX’s augmented-reality navigation, the driver can see the navigation directions superimposed over live images of the road the car is traveling.
Alternative Options
If you're craving the sporty feeling of a traditional two-door coupe, the S-Class coupe offers ample space and luxury with tons of power. For those who want something smaller for easy city navigation, the GLB SUV offers amazing technology and power for the whole family.
For more information about the Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe or any of the other models in the 2023 lineup, contact Mercedes-Benz of Owings Mills today online or visit our showroom at 9727 Reisterstown Rd, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
Image Credit: Mercedes-Benz