Mercedes-Benz debuted a new generation (the second) of the GLC Class in 2022 and follows this year with the addition of a second trim model for the GLC. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and AMG 43 bring two options to this luxury midsize crossover-SUV.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that outputs 255 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive (which MB called “4Matic”) is also available. A 48-volt mild hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmission finish the drivetrain. We drove the GLC 300 4Matic version as our week-long test vehicle.
The AMG GLC 43 has a more souped up version of the 4-cylinder powertrain above, adding turbocharging to employ 416 horses. All-wheel drive is standard and the mild-hybrid system remains. The AMG model also has more sport-oriented additions such as adaptive damping on a coil-spring suspension, rear axle steering, and a beefier braking system.
We really enjoyed the GLC 300 and think that, as with most Mercedes models, unless you really need that speed, the non-AMG model is excellent. The 2024 GLC 300 comes with a long list of standard equipment that ranges from rain-sensing wipers to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch infotainment interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included as are three USB-C connection ports and a wireless charging pad. The MBUX system is the full “talk to it and get things done” setup that Mercedes is our favorite for.
We do suggest looking at some add-on options, however, for more capability and safety. The full suite of forward collision mitigation and blind-spot warnings (including rear cross-traffic) are included. But we’d suggest adding the Exclusive package for the surround-view cameras and really well-done Burmester sound system. We’d also suggest the Driver Assistance Package to add adaptive cruise control (also available as a solo add-on), Mercedes’ nicely done lane-keeping system, and other safety features. Our test model included the AMG Line package, which is nice, but largely cosmetic, so not really required. If you live where it gets cold enough to freeze on the regular, the Winter Package is another good addition, putting on a heated steering wheel (heated seats are standard) and a heated windshield washer system.
Mercedes-Benz also has a cool system called Transparent Hood, which is a camera setup that shows underneath the vehicle on the infotainment screen so the driver can see the steering angle and obstacles. This is fun, but not terribly useful most of the time. It’s an ala carte add-on.
All in all, we have very few complaints about the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC. It’s a very luxurious, comfortable, and engaging drive. It’s smooth and confident all of the time and the mild hybrid system does well with adding responsiveness to mitigate turbo lag.
The wireless charging pad is not very well located and interior storage for small items is a little wonky. That’s about all we can complain about with the GLC.
Mercedes did what we’ve come to expect from this German luxury carmaker: an excellent job. The GLC is a beautiful SUV and it’s priced more affordably than most would expect.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 has a starting price of about $49,000. Adding AWD bumps that by a couple of thousand dollars. Most buyers will be in the $56,000 range after adding AWD and some options.
This review first appeared on DriveModeShow.com.
