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What do our experts think of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300? We look at powertrain, interior options, trim levels, and more. Find out our thoughts here.
What’s New for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC?
Eight years after the original model debuted, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 ushers in an all-new second-generation lineup. Positioned above the GLA and GLB crossovers, but below the GLE – there is no GLD – this latest GLC has big shoes to fill as the 2022 model was the German automakers’ best-selling vehicle last year. It certainly looks ready to maintain that position with fresh sheet metal, more cargo space, redesigned seats, screens galore, updated suspension geometry, hybridization, and so much more. Unfortunately, the AMG variant is not available – yet – but is likely to arrive later in the model year.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC – mbusa.com | Shop 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Impressive standard tech
Updated design looks great
Hybrid boost mode
No AMG model
Rear side airbags are optional
Just one powertrain
A textbook Mercedes
2023 Mercedes-Benz Specs
- 255 horsepower from base engine
- 295 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 3 available trims
- 56 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 22 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- PRE-SAFE tech that preps the car and occupants for impact
- Those Burmester metal speaker grilles
- Four years of basic vehicle coverage
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Powertrain
To kick off second-gen production, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L inline-4 with an integrated starter-generator strapped to it that is powered by a 48-volt battery pack. The gas motor makes 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid unit can tack on 23 hp and 148 torques as needed. This “mild hybridization” helps boost efficiency by shutting down the gas engine under light load conditions and providing power to formerly engine-driven systems like the water pump.
An AMG variant and plug-in hybrid powertrain, to follow suit with BMW and its latest X5, are expected to arrive at some point in 2023, but for now, the only option is the $2,000 AWD system that Mercedes calls 4MATIC. A 9-speed automatic handles shifting duty and a new 4-link front suspension works with the multi-link rear and standard adaptive suspension to deliver a tightly composed ride. With the Dynamic Select feature, drivers can choose from drive modes including Eco, Sport, Individual, and Off-Road on 4MATIC models. For those that choose to take their $50,000 AWD Benz into the woods, a new “transparent hood” feature shows what is under the front of the car – as though looking through the hood – via the central touchscreen.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Fuel Economy & MPG
The new powertrain works wonders for fuel economy with RWD models rated for 25 mpg around town and 32 on the highway. That highway figure is a significant five mpg bump over 2022 and translates to well over 500 miles of highway range. But be aware, the GLC requires pricey premium fuel. Opting for 4MATIC brings those numbers down to 21/28 mpg in city/highway driving.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
Between the bump in cargo space and mini-S-Class vibe, the new GLC 300 cabin is quite the swanky place to be. Thanks to a growth spurt of more than two inches in length, the 2023 GLC gains nearly three more cubic feet of storage space for a grand total of 56 cubes with the rear bench folded down. When upright, that metric comes in at 22 cubic feet and rear legroom comes in at 37 inches. That’s a decent amount of stretch-out space, but as with any compact crossover, three adults across the back bench are going to be snug.
Fortunately, all occupants will be dazzled by S-Class levels of luxury including available metal weave and aluminum inlaid gloss black wood trim. The ambient lighting system comes standard with 64 colors, but if it’s a discotheque you’re after, be sure to grab the enhanced ambient illumination on Exclusive models – it’s wild. Upholstery ranges from MB-Tex synthetic leather to genuine hides and suede when equipped with the AMG package. And new for 2023, heated front seats are standard with ventilation and heated rears optional.
Entertainment & Technology
Company patriarch Karl Benz surely could never have imagined his cars would have a giant 12-inch touchscreen for controlling virtually all systems not to mention two of them, as is the case with the 2023 GLC 300. The second being the gauge cluster. Unlike most competitors, this screen, which also measures 12 inches, sprouts from the dash versus an integrated design.
Whether you like it or not is subjective, but there’s no denying the almost complete lack of physical buttons can lead to frustration. Especially the capacitive buttons on the steering wheel that are begging to be accidentally activated. It certainly all looks sharp and the roster of standard content – wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging, and biometric authentication – does a fine job of balancing things out.
Safety Features
Mercedes fits every 2023 GLC 300 with forward collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a self-parking system. There is also a smart PRE-SAFE protocol that tightens seat belts and closes windows when an accident is detected to better prepare for the aftermath. Neither the NHTSA nor IIHS has tested a 2023 GLC, but in 2022 testing, both agencies awarded the GLC top marks. Niggles include the fact that rear side airbags are a $700 option and, no matter what model you choose, systems like adaptive cruise control (ACC) and lane-keeping require a package.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Trims & Pricing
Premium – $48,250
The base 2023 GLC 300 comes with 18-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a power tailgate. Creature comforts include power-adjustable and heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a variety of wood trims to choose from. Dual 12-inch displays handle instrumentation and infotainment, the latter of which includes wireless smartphone mirroring and charging, three USB ports, and a voice-activated “Hey Mercedes” assistant.
Exclusive – $50,500
The Exclusive trim ups the content with enhanced ambient lighting, a thundering Burmester audio system, connected navigation, and a surround-view monitor. Like the other two models, an AMG Line package brings 19-inch rims, a body kit, upgraded brakes, a unique front grille, and sport seats for $3,650. A panoramic roof is also available for $1,500.
Pinnacle – $52,600
Top-spec Pinnacle models feature high-tech headlights that can project icons directly onto the pavement to alert the driver to pedestrians, lane drift, and other hazards. These models also feature a very cool augmented reality navigation system and a head-up display. The $1,700 Driver Assistance package brings ACC, active blind spot assistance, a lane-keeping system, and evasive steering.
Warranties
The Mercedes-Benz warranty is not as impressive as its cars with four years or 50,000 miles of coverage on the basic vehicle, powertrain, and roadside assistance. Complimentary maintenance? Not here. Go check out a Genesis, BMW, or Jaguar if that’s on your list of requirements.
What we think
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC – mbusa.com | Shop 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC on Carsforsale.com
With that new front end, tech galore, and relatively impressive fuel economy, it’s hard not to like the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. Even the pricing feels right given the level of content and luxurious digs in the cabin. It’s a head-scratcher the way Mercedes makes things like airbags an expensive add-on and it would be nice to have the option for more power, but that latter concern is likely going to be addressed before the year is out. My money would be on the mid-tier Exclusive trim. It only adds $2,000 to the sticker over a base model but boasts that bumping Burmester stereo to go with the #clublife lighting system. I’d also be scouring these new car incentives for opportunities to save a few bucks.
