New hybrid Mercedes-Benz GLC arrives

The latest newcomer from Mercedes-Benz to arrive on the Irish market is the all-new GLC SUV.

Said by Mercedes-Benz to be “the most dynamic model in their SUV family”, the new GLC will be available only as a hybrid: as a plug-in hybrid or as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator.

Plug-in hybrids offer a range of more than 129 kilometres (WLTP) which Mercedes-Benz says is “perfect for predominantly electric everyday driving”.

Prices start at €80,310 for the new GLC 220 D 4MATIC AMG Line Plus with the GLC 300e PHEV 4MATIC AMG Line Plus starting at €91,510.

Launched six years ago, the GLC has achieved global sales of 2.6 million units in addition to which it has been the best-selling model in the Mercedes-Benz range for the past two years.

At home on any terrain – whether on or off road – in its latest form, it scores with features that include 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and purely electric off-road driving in plug-in models.

New rear-axle steering makes it even more manoeuvrable and safe, according to Mercedes-Benz.

Power is provided by four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines – four mild-hybrid units with a 48-volt electrical system, and three plug-in hybrid variants which include an all-electric driving mode with a range of more than 129kms (WLTP).

Output ranges up to 190 kW and 400 Nm of torque in the petrol models, and up to 195 kW and 550 Nm in diesel models – both with up to 17 kW and 200 Nm of electrical support from the integrated starter-generator.

To control emissions, diesels also come equipped with a series of exhaust after-treatment components.

It has a towing capacity of 2.5 tonnes, while boot capacity is 70 litres more than the outgoing model.

Standard features inside include the latest generation MBUX infotainment system and ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance with dialogue and learning ability, while the extensive choice of optional extras includes a panoramic sunroof.