Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class officially revealed!

Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed the GLC-Class SUV. The model replaces the GLK-Class and features the German automaker's new design characteristics. The styling on the SUV was previewed by the concept GLC-Coupe, that was seen in April this year.

Like the other new models in the Mercedes line-up, the GLC features a curvy body and a similar set of headlamps as the C and S-Class. You also get the option of LED lamps. Other traits include a two-slat chrome radiator grille, a silver skid plate, chrome lining around the windows, silver roof rails, bulbous rear fenders, new LED tail lights, a chrome strip in the rear bumper and dual, chrome accentuated exhaust finishers. The bumpers come in a total of three variants. Apart from the base version, there is a version that has been reworked for off-road use with a larger approach / departure angle, plus a more sporty AMG variant.

On the inside, we see the use of material like nappa leather and open-pore wood trim. The design similarities with the W-205 C-Class are evident. You get a splitting armrest, tablet type infotainment display (7'' or 8.4'' with COMAND online), 3-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls, a touchpad in the handrest over the rotary push-button for the COMAND system and an optional panoramic sunroof. The further scope of features here includes audio / TV reception, fast hard-disc navigation, live traffic updates, a WLAN hotspot function and liguatronic voice control and a Burmester sound system.

With the increase in length and wheelbase, the cabin's passenger and storage space goes up as well. The length, width, height and wheelbase rise 120 mm, 50 mm, 9 mm and 118 mm respectively, over the GLK-Class. Luggage capacity (min /max) stands at 550L / 1,600L vs the GLK's 470L / 1,550L.

Four models are available at the market launch of the GLC, all featuring 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive as standard:

- GLC 220 d 4MATIC, diesel that makes 168 BHP and 400 Nm of torque.
- GLC 250 d 4MATIC, diesel that makes 201 BHP and 500 Nm of torque.
- GLC 250 4MATIC, petrol that makes 208 BHP and 350 Nm of torque.
- GLC 350 e 4MATIC, plug-in hybrid that features a 208 BHP petrol engine and a 114 BHP electric motor.

The new SUV is said to drop fuel consumption by 19% over the GLK. 

Available safety features include collision prevention assist plus, crosswind assist, attention assist, ESP with dynamic cornering assist, pre-safe brake with pedestrian detection, BAS plus with cross-traffic assist, active blind spot assist, active lane keeping assist and pre-safe plus.

Unlike the GLK, the GLC has been designed to cater to right hand drive markets as well. Mercedes-Benz India is likely to launch the GLC as a direct import, and the launch could take place towards the end of 2015 or early 2016. An official confirmation / time-frame is awaited.