GLC Quick Facts
- Original starting price: $44,250 (excluding a $1,050 destination fee)
- Class: Luxury Compact Crossover/SUV
- Competitors:
- KBB.com Fair Purchase Price
Introduction
The GLC is a luxury compact crossover from Mercedes-Benz. Available in a wide range of models, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers buyers a powerfully, refined drive and luxury details. Based upon the time-tested C-Class sedan’s platform, the Mercedes-Benz GLC offers sophistication, a stable ride, and a competitive vehicle in every class it enters.
A strong seller for the German brand, the GLC C-Class SUV delivers on the brand promise of excellence in engineering and unsurpassed luxury. New for 2021, the plug-in hybrid option falls out of the roster. The handy self-parking system and keyless entry/start are now standard. Mercedes-Benz also tweaked the option lineup, breaking up the bundles to allow more freedom of selection.
OEM CPO Warranty Program Highlights
- Limited Warranty: 1 year/unlimited miles after new vehicle warranty expires
- Roadside Assistance: 24/7 concurrent with Limited Warranty
- $0 Deductible on Warranty Services
- Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz
Key Competitors
KBB Review Highlights
In a strong class with the Lincoln Corsair, Lexus NX, BMW X3, and Audi Q5, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class SUV provides a decadently performance-minded entry point to the luxury crossover segment. The GLC-Class meets buyers with five trims and a Coupe edition, named the Namesake base, Rear-Drive GLC 300, GLC 300 4Matic, plus the amped-up Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 63. Spanning a broad range of functions and features, the GLC-Class SUV has been a winner for the brand since it debuted as a replacement for GLK in 2015. It was designed to significantly expand the Mercedes-Benz SUV portfolio to include an impressive SUV that was a touch sporty, slightly bigger than previous models, comfortable, and looked as good inside and out as it handled. Beautifully executed, the GLC has been a fan-favorite since its debut.
The confident, sweeping, almost coupe-like lines are anchored by a wide grille bookended by LED headlights and taillights. Accented by a glittering MB star and alloy wheels that start at 18 inches and top out at 20 inches, the design is visually appealing. AMG models receive a cosmetic boost with glossy black exterior accents, a sport brake, and 19-inch 5-spoke wheels. They also receive a distinctive grille and different alloy wheels and are eligible for an aerodynamic-enhancement package and luxe carbon fiber accents.
Powered by one of three robust engines directed by a 9-speed automatic transmission, the 2021 GLC-Class SUV is a pleasure to drive. The GLC 300 bears a 255 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 that provides a fuel economy of 22/29 mpg in rear-wheel drive and 21/28 mpg in all-wheel drive. The performance-minded AMG GLC 43 gets a dynamic 385 horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, while the GLC 63 gets the breathtaking 469 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that is rated at 15/22 mpg. Hand-assembled, it is the stuff of legend and allows the GLC 63 to zip from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds.
Bucking the trend of sparse interiors and standard equipment from German heritage brands, the 2021 GLC-Class SUV is elegant and finely fashioned with quality textiles. It has many features for on-road performance, comfort, and increased function. The base GLC 300 is well-equipped with high-quality simulated leather upholstery, a 14-way power adjustable driver’s seat, an Apple CarPlay/Android Auto-enabled 10.25-inch digital screen and touchpad, automatic climate control, a self-parking system, a powered tailgate, and blind-spot assistance.
Several supplemental packages and range additions give the GLC-Class a nearly bespoke feel and increase comfort. Polished wood veneers, diamond-stitched leather, and special paintwork enhance the appearance, and the AMG Line Package brings a level of sportiness that is a delight. Heated rear seating, ventilated front seats, and enhanced climate control can be added to improve the comfort levels of all passengers. Additional driver aids, including lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, active distance and brake assistance, heads-up display, and rear-cross traffic alert, are available as add-ons. The Multimedia Package brings an augmented video that overlays directions over a real-time image of the street and hood.
See Kelley Blue Book’s Expert Review of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC
If you’re ready to shop, see certified pre-owned 2021 Mercedes-Benz models
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2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC Expert Review
