Mercedes-Benz launches sleek new GLC Coupé in SA
Mercedes-Benz has added a two model Coupé range (say it Coop, not Cewpay) to its new middle of the road GLC SUV line-up. “The contemporary and dynamic Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé is the ultimate lifestyle accessory from the world’s most innovate and luxurious automotive brand,” Mercedes-Benz South Africa co-chair Mark Raine threatened as he trotted the newcomer out at Mercedes’ exclusive V&A Lounge in the Cape Town Waterfront on Wednesday.
“GLC Coupé undoubtedly resonates with an affluent South African clientele. It speaks to that desire for adventure, both in the urban realm and the greater outdoors.” The Coop takes the GLC’s already contemporary dynamic design and blends in a fastback tail. To deliver a progressive lifestyle alternative and round off Mercedes’ best-selling class. Not that it’s unique. All form of these turtles on stilts have become endemic to private school parking lots and similar watering holes these days.
GLC Coupé ‘exudes a bold, theatrical design’
Raine went on to propose that the GLC Coupé exudes a bold and theatrical design that’s both artistic and avantgarde. Its proportions are indeed striking. Those surfaces dramatic and as they say, its edges are precisely moulded define an unmistakeable look. Complemented by a clearly laid-out, high-quality interior, the Coop now also has a panoramic sunroof for the first time.
Pleasingly only available in a turbodiesel only range for now in a global market elsewhere blindsided by other far less compatible tech, both models get a 48-volt integrated starter-generator mild hybrid system. This belt driven system enables a subtle power boost and energy recuperation. To also keep the comfortable and agile new GLC Coupé at home on almost any terrain both on and off the road.
Approach it and as in the wagon, GLC Coupé’s ellipse-DRL optional Digital Light headlamps gently merge with the Tri-Star pattern grille. Its elegant lines are emphasised by a simulated chrome underguard, black roof rails and optional running boards. Full width taillights add to the allure.
Portrait MBUX screen, more responsive ‘Hey Mercedes’
GLC Coupe’s sporty, contemporary cabin opens up with a portrait MBUX touchscreen central to its horizontally divided dash. An even more responsive ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant gains optimised active intelligence learning capability. Add a Smart Home network control centre and a new Tourguide acoustic travel guide to go with that smart 3D navi map. All that with Energizing Air Control, ambient lighting, and avant-garde seat design and door cards to emphasise typical Mercedes high quality.
The 145 kW 440 Nm GLC 220 d 4Matic is good for 8.1 seconds 0-100 km/h and a 225 km/h top end. Driven soberly, it will sip 5.5 l/100 km and emit 146 g/km. The 198 kW 550 Nm GLC 300 d 4Matic uses the same base engine to sprint to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and top 240 km/h. It’s also good for 5.8 l/100 km at 152 g/km. Both cars benefit that 17 kW 200 Nm mild hybrid boost to improve power and reduce consumption and emissions.
The GLC Coupés have 4Matic all-wheel traction and a new trailer menu to bring safer and more pleasing towing experience. Add Latest generation Driving Assistance Plus with Active Distance Steering, and Traffic Sign Assistants. The system is significantly improved on and off-road, thanks to a simplified off-road screen and improved 360° camera ‘Transparent Bonnet’, Memory Parking, and more.
Swanning elegantly along in GLC Coupé luxury
Variable ratio steering four-link front, and multi-link rear independent sports suspension has Airmatic adjustable damping, compression and rebound. A rear tie rod also offsets lateral forces to stabilise handling characteristics and rear-axle steering is optional.
We never had the chance to really put the new Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupés through their paces on the busy Cape Peninsula roads, but we certainly revelled in that luxury as we swanned elegantly along.
Watch for an Auto road test soon. Both models are available now with the GLC 220d selling for R1,392-million and GLC 300d at R1,447M. Mercedes’ Mobility Plans will see you on the road in one of these. For far less than you would ever imagine, too. – Michele Lupini