2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Write a reviewPros
Comfortable
Premium interior materials
Fuel-efficient
Cons
Not much cargo space
Not very exciting to drive
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is more of an evolution than a revolution.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV is split between new and old. The GLC 300 is redesigned and shares a platform with the also-redesigned C-Class sedan, but the GLC Coupe models are carryovers from last year. New Coupes are due in a few months, likely for the 2024 model year. Even though the standard GLC 300 is an all-new car, it takes a keen eye to spot the differences. The most recognizable difference is the new, narrower taillights. Otherwise, with a similar grille, roof line, and belt line, it could easily be mistaken for the first-generation GLC that's been in production since 2016.
That may not be such a bad thing, since that GLC led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run. It's classy with substantive styling that foregoes novelty, allowing the design to stand the test of time. It's as attractive as it ever was, but we wouldn't have minded a bit more personality to set the new GLC apart from the old. An available AMG Line package, which is also offered as a Night Package with darkened accents, may help matters somewhat.
The new GLC's interior receives a more significant makeover that is in line with newer models from Mercedes. A large vertical infotainment touchscreen dominates the centre of the dashboard, with a tablet-like instrument panel in front of the driver. It's modern with a more high-tech slant than before, and just like its predecessor, the 2023 GLC features excellent materials quality and solid construction. Compared to rivals such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX, the GLC's cockpit design is simpler and cleaner.
The returning GLC Coupe models are understandably similar on the outside, though the coupe-like roofline that tapers down toward the tail set it apart from the more traditional GLC 300. Its first-generation interior has also aged well and even holds a few usability advantages over its newer sibling.
On the whole, the GLC hit the bullseye seven years ago and the new model is more of an evolution of that theme. It exudes traditional luxury while rivals lean more into sport and technology.
The new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is limited to the GLC 300 trim level in its first year. It's powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Together, they produce 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive (AWD) are standard in Canada. (A rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version is sold in the US but not offered here.)
Acceleration was pleasantly smooth during our first drive, almost as linear as an electric vehicle. Mercedes estimates it will reach 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds, which is average for the class. There's no stress when merging onto highways and there's plenty of power to pass slower traffic, but it's not as lively as the BMW X3's four-cylinder powertrain, even though their acceleration times are similar.
The brake pedal effort is a bit too soft for our tastes based on our test drive, but those brakes are effective at slowing the SUV in a hurry while also remaining easy to modulate for smooth stops. The suspension tuning favours compliance and comfort over sporty handling, but the GLC still corners with confidence. If you're seeking sportier handling, we're sure future AMG models will satisfy. As it is, the GLC 300 delivers a smoother ride than its rivals that is bolstered by a nearly silent cabin.
The returning GLC 4Matic Coupe continues with its older four-cylinder turbo engine that is good for 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. It's estimated to hit 100 km/h in the same timeframe. The AMG GLC 43 Coupe comes with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 that increases output specs to 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. It's the sporty choice in the lineup and should accelerate to 100 km/h in roughly 4.7 seconds. Its sport-tuned suspension and exhaust make it more of an extrovert and the resulting firmer ride and louder engine will affect comfort, but not to the extent that it'd be harsh or problematic, especially for sport-minded drivers.
The GLC's front seats offer enough adjustment to ensure you find your preferred position, and they are firmly cushioned but well-shaped for long-distance comfort. Mercedes' synthetic leather upholstery is convincingly grained to look like genuine hides and is more substantial than some rival coverings. Opting for real leather will get you smoother surfaces that are just as comfortable. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard in Canada, as is a 64-colour ambient lighting system.
You have enough places for your personal items, with a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad and cupholders, but the piano black lid never looks clean as it attracts dust and fingerprints. We suggest any alternate trim choice to avoid this. There are also well-sized door pockets and another bin under the centre armrest.
There's plenty of space up front for taller passengers, while the rear seats can easily accommodate an average adult. Headroom is slightly limited for taller occupants, but there's an abundance of legroom. A panoramic sunroof is optional on the GLC 300. Behind the rear seats, the standard GLC can hold up to 620 litres of cargo area. That figure is smaller than cargo space in rivals by as much as 35 percent, but the space should still prove adequate for most shoppers. The rear seats fold flat with the cargo floor to accept larger items and they drop at the touch of a button.
The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline cuts into cargo capacity, reducing it to 500 litres. Rear headroom also takes a hit and is lower by 35 millimetres.
The new interior layout has more visual impact than before, with the large 11.9-inch touchscreen doing the heavy lifting. The graphics are sharp and responses are immediate, but the screen's placement lower on the dash makes it more distracting to use since you'll have to take your eyes off the road to read and operate the touch controls. The previous generation had a smaller screen mounted on top of the dash, well within the driver's sightline, and a trackpad on the centre console made control easier.
As with the older model, the new GLC features a tiny capacitive-touch trackpad on the steering wheel to control the on-screen cursor, but we find this frustrating as the sensitivity makes it difficult to consistently select your desired button. The MBUX infotainment system has some of the best voice recognition in the business; it can be relied on for myriad features. The only issue is that the voice controls will interrupt your music or podcast.
Overall, the new infotainment system performs better but is more distracting to use because of the layout and lack of physical buttons that facilitate no-look adjustments for audio and climate controls. You can still get the older layout and system, but you'll be stuck with the less practical Coupe body style.
Standard connectivity includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and audio enthusiasts will appreciate the available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.
Crash-test results for the new 2023 GLC 300 are not yet available from either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). That said, we'd be shocked if it didn't achieve strong scores based on the history and reputation of Mercedes. The previous GLC on which the returning Coupe is based received a five-out-of-five star rating from NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side crash protection. It also received top scores from the IIHS and was named a Top Safety Pick, its second-highest honour.
Standard safety features and driver assistance technologies for the new GLC 300 include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, evasive steering assist, lane change assist, and emergency stop assist can be added with the optional Intelligent Drive package. Other options include a surround-view camera system, traffic sign assist, head-up display, and upgraded headlights. The Coupe comes standard with cross-traffic alerts and the surround-view camera but otherwise, its Intelligent Drive package is identical to the new GLC.
In our experiences with both new and old systems, false alarms are extraordinarily rare and the adaptive cruise control is praiseworthy for its smooth and trustworthy operation.
In Canada, the 2023 GLC 300 4Matic has a starting price of $58,900. Mercedes-Benz Canada allows dealers to set their own destination and other fees, so they vary by region and individual dealership. The figures are right in line with the BMW X3 and Lexus NX, while the Audi Q5 undercuts them by a few thousand dollars. The GLC is better at delivering refined luxury while the BMW benefits from sportier performance. The Audi Q5 in many ways fills the middle ground, but its delayed throttle responses put a damper on the fun.
The GLC 300 is estimated to return fuel economy of 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving, 9.1 on the highway, and 9.8 combined. The GLC 300 4Matic Coupe with the older engine is estimated at 10.9 L/100 km combined while the higher performing AMG GLC 43 is rated at 11.8 L/100 km combined.
By comparison, the equivalent four-cylinder BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are estimated at 9.9 L/100 km and 9.3 L/100 km combined respectively. If you're looking for the most efficient SUV in this class, the Lexus NX 350h hybrid has an impressive 6.0 L/100 km combined estimate, but power and performance are noticeably lower as a result.
Expectations are high in the small luxury SUV class and the new GLC easily meets or exceeds them. It may not be as engaging to drive as the BMW X3, but that's likely not a concern for the typical Mercedes shopper, plus we're expecting higher-performance models in the coming years. It's also not as efficient as the Lexus NX, but Mercedes-Benz counters that with future EVs and plug-in hybrids. If you're looking for the traditional hallmarks of luxury, those being refinement and comfort, you should start your search with the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300.
Note: Images show a US model.
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2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Pricing
Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · HD radio · 2 subwoofers · Total Number of Speakers: 6
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 13.5 · Front brake width: 1.3 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.6 · Rear brake width: 0.9 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center with cupholders · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: fully automated · Ambient lighting: color-adjustable · Assist handle: rear · Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Easy entry: power driver seat · Footwell lights: color-adjustable · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Rear view camera: multi-view · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: front seatback · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.27
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Hybrid Gas Engine HP: 255 · Hybrid Gas Engine HP@RPM: 5800 · Hybrid Gas Engine Torque: 295 · Hybrid gas Engine Torque@RPM: 2000
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color with chrome accents · Exhaust: integrated exhaust · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Fender lip moldings: black · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black with chrome accents · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: roofline spoiler · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Rocker panel color: black · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Hybrid
Starter Type: motor/generator
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment: MBUX · Infotainment screen size: 11.9 in. · Smartphone integration: wireless Apple CarPlay
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: puddle lamps · Headlights: LED · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Automatic emergency braking: front pedestrian · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Cross Traffic Alert: rear · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: door unlock · Parking sensors: rear · Pre-Collision Warning System: audible warning · Pre-collision warning system: pedestrian detection · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: reclining · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat: power reclining · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Stability and Traction
Traction control: with trailer stability control
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with read function · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: Mercedes me · Smart device app function: lock operation · Wifi: hotspot
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 10
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Touch screen display radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 2 subwoofers · Total Number of Speakers: 6
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 13.5 · Front brake width: 1.3 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.6 · Rear brake width: 0.9 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center with cupholders · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: illuminated scuff plate · Door trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: fully automated · Ambient lighting: color-adjustable · Assist handle: rear · Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Easy entry: power steering wheel · Footwell lights: color-adjustable · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Rear view camera: multi-view · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: voice recognition controls · Storage: sunglasses holder · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.27
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Hybrid Gas Engine HP: 255 · Hybrid Gas Engine HP@RPM: 5800 · Hybrid Gas Engine Torque: 295 · Hybrid gas Engine Torque@RPM: 2000
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color with chrome accents · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Fender lip moldings: black · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black with chrome accents · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Rocker panel color: black · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Hybrid
Starter Type: motor/generator
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Android Auto ready · Infotainment screen size: 10.25 in. · Smartphone integration: wireless Android Auto
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: maintenance reminder
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: puddle lamps · Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: driver side auto-dimming
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Automatic emergency braking: front · Camera system: surround view · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Cross Traffic Alert: rear · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: rear · Pre-Collision Warning System: visual warning · Pre-collision warning system: pedestrian detection · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat: power reclining · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Stability and Traction
Traction control: with trailer stability control
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with voice recognition · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: Mercedes me · Smart device app function: security event/collision alert · Wifi: hotspot compatible
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 10
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Voice recognition audio system · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 2 subwoofers · Total Number of Speakers: 6
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 14.2 · Front brake width: 1.4 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.6 · Rear brake width: 0.9 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center with cupholders · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: aluminum · Door sill trim: illuminated scuff plate · Door trim: aluminum · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: fully automated · Ambient lighting: color-adjustable · Assist handle: front · Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Easy entry: power steering wheel · Footwell lights: color-adjustable · Memorized settings: liftgate · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): USB-C front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Rear power outlet: 115V · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: multi-function screen controls · Storage: cargo net · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.69 · Limited slip differential: center
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Exhaust: performance
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color with chrome accents · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Fender lip moldings: black · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black with chrome accents · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Rocker panel color: black · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Android Auto ready · Infotainment screen size: 10.25 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: maintenance reminder
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: puddle lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Automatic emergency braking: front · Camera system: surround view · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Cross Traffic Alert: rear · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: front · Pre-Collision Warning System: visual warning · Pre-collision warning system: pedestrian detection · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front and rear · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat: power reclining · Rear seat folding: flat · Upholstery: contrast stitching · Upholstery accents: faux suede
Stability and Traction
Traction control: with trailer stability control
Steering
Steering ratio: 14.5
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: pneumatic springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Leveling: self leveling suspension · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: pneumatic springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with voice recognition · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: Mercedes me · Smart device app function: maintenance status · Wifi: hotspot compatible
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: with washer