The first new variant of the latest ‘X254’ second-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC has been announced for Australia, in the form of the GLC 300 4MATIC.
The new model features electrified powertrain technology, running a 48V mild-hybrid system in tandem with the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine. The integrated starter-generator provides up to 17kW and 200Nm, while the system output is rated at 190kW and 400Nm.
Mercedes-Benz says the torque output is 30Nm up on the equivalent outgoing model, and enables the mid-size premium SUV to sprint from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption on the official combined cycle is rated between 7.7-8.2L/100km.
Aside from sporting a sleek new design theme on the outside, the 2023 GLC is 60mm longer and 4mm lower than the outgoing model. Track widths have also expanded by 6mm at the front and 23mm at the back, helping to provide a better stance on the road.
With larger external dimensions comes more interior space. According to the manufacturer customers can expect 1mm of extra headroom in the back, and 2mm of additional legroom. However, front headroom is reduced by a not-so-great 16mm.
Right up at the back the boot capacity jumps from 570L to an impressive 620L. This volume is now one of the largest in the segment, especially against its key German rivals which offer around 550L. The rear seat offers 40:20:40 split-fold functionality for full versatility.
As standard, the 2023 GLC 300 comes with 20-inch AMG bi-colour alloy wheels in Australia, bigger front brakes than before, body-coloured wheel arches, and a large portrait-style multimedia screen inside. There’s also Artico material for the seats and parts of the door trim and dash, a panoramic roof, head-up display, and the AMG Line enhancement pack fitted as standard.
Mercedes-Benz Australia is aiming to welcome the new model in Australia in June. Prices start from $104,900 (not included on-road costs). That’s up substantially from the outgoing model’s $92,300 starting price (GLC 300).
