This iteration of the Mercedes GLC is a little bigger than the first generation, and its modified underpinnings give the driver and up to four passengers more interior space. The model shares a dashboard with the Mercedes C-Class, and all versions come with four-wheel–drive. You can also choose between a petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid or plugin hybrid engine. The latter in particular will interest company car drivers because of its all-electric range of 80 miles, placing the GLC in one of the lowest BIK tax rates in its class.
Equipment, options and extras
The entry-level AMG Line comes with LED headlights, 19in alloy wheels, heated sports front seats, automatic two-zone climate control and heated electrically adjustable door mirrors. It’s easily our favourite trim, and most likely the one that will catch your eye, too.
That being said, it’s worth considering the AMG Line Premium, with its dashcam, larger 20in alloy wheels, parking aids, blind spot and traffic sign assists, upgraded memory seats, keyless entry and start, and heat- and noise-insulating glass. Or you might check out the top-spec AMG Line Premium Plus, which brings a head-up display, a panoramic roof, four-zone climate control and an upgraded stereo system.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
The entry-level AMG Line costs more to buy outright than most of its competitors’ counterparts, not least the Lexus NX, Audi Q5 and BMW X3. However, the GLC is predicted to hold its value better than the Q5 and X3, so you should get more of your investment back if you decide to sell within three years. It’s worth noting though that the GLC’s rival the Porsche Macan costs more to buy but should hold its value even better than pretty much anything else in the class.
Company car drivers will like the GLC’s lower tax rates: its electric-only range of 80 miles places the plugin hybrid into a lower tax band than its counterparts the X3 xDrive 30e, NX 450h+ and Q5 TFSIe. However, the GLC 220d diesel’s CO2 emissions are standard among its competitors and will attract chunky monthly tax rates, as will the 300 petrol. The 220d’s fuel economy is on a par with that of the X3 xDrive 20d and marginally better than the equivalent Q5. So if you’re still tempted by the 300 petrol, just remember that it’s significantly thirstier than the diesels.
Safety and security
Euro NCAP awarded the GLC a full five stars for safety, and it comes with an alarm as standard on all versions, with the ability to detect the vehicle being towed away. This will alert you through Mercedes’ me app.
Reliability
The GLC comes with a 3-year unlimited-mileage warranty, similar to most of its rivals, but the plugin hybrids come with 6 years or 62,000 miles for the battery.
The Car Planet verdict
As premium SUVs go, the GLC offers a magnificent range of engines, not to mention a gorgeous interior and pleasant drive. The plugin hybrids boast a massive electric range, which make them stand out well and truly from the competition for company car drivers.
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