With details of the updated GLC SUV recently announced, Mercedes-Benz now turns to the new GLC Coupe — the first major refresh since its arrival in 2016, replacing the boxier (arguably better-looking) popular GLK.
A compact crossover with sedan-like looks, the sportback-styled 2020 GLC Coupe improves its powertrain and updates the interior and safety features. Here are the four 2020 changes worth noting, followed by specs at the end of this article.
New Steering Wheel
Now available in two versions, the new multifunction steering wheel takes on a sportier look and feel for 2020, featuring a more distinct style versus the outgoing model. Expect more functionality at your fingertips, including Touch Control buttons to access the instrument cluster, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, and Telematics functions, which can be operated via the multifunctional touchpad on the centre console, replacing the rotary COMAND controller.
New 2.0L Turbo Engine
The next-generation 4-cylinder now powers the 2020 GLC Coupe. With a 14-hp bump, the updated 2.0L inline-4 cylinder turbocharged engine puts down a respectable 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. All paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission as before. Aside from the increase in power, Mercedes focused on reducing CO2 emissions while improving fuel efficiency via the CAMTRONIC variable valve control.
Need more power? Go for the AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 S with the 4.0-litre V8 turbocharged engine. Specs below:
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | – 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine (GLC 300) – 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged engine (AMG GLC 43) – 4.0-liter V8 turbocharged engine (AMG GLC 63 and GLC 63 S) |
| Horsepower | – GLC 300: 255 horsepower – AMG GLC 43: 385 horsepower – AMG GLC 63: 469 horsepower – AMG GLC 63 S: 503 horsepower |
| Torque | – GLC 300: 273 lb-ft of torque – AMG GLC 43: 384 lb-ft of torque – AMG GLC 63: 479 lb-ft of torque – AMG GLC 63 S: 516 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic transmission (GLC 300) or AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9-speed automatic (AMG models) |
| Drivetrain | – GLC 300: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or 4MATIC® all-wheel drive (AWD) available – AMG models: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) Time | – GLC 300: Approximately 6.1 seconds – AMG GLC 43: Approximately 4.7 seconds – AMG GLC 63: Approximately 3.8 seconds – AMG GLC 63 S: Approximately 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | – GLC 300: Approximately 130 mph (209 km/h) – AMG GLC 43: Approximately 130 mph (209 km/h) – AMG GLC 63: Approximately 155 mph (250 km/h) – AMG GLC 63 S: Approximately 174 mph (280 km/h) |
More Driver Safety Systems
Nobody likes paying for extra features when shopping for a luxury vehicle. So it’s good to see MB ramping up the Intelligent Drive Package in the GLC Coupe.
The package will now include a longer list of features like Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist with turn-off and cross-traffic function, and Active Lane Keeping Assist to name a few.
Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX)
Also new is the updated MBUX system, which adds a wider range of operating options, including Touch Control on the multimedia display and Voice Control. Plus, the optional Augmented Reality navigation incorporates real-world video from the front camera. We haven’t tried this out yet, but we definitely need to, soon.
The Germans’ sport utility lineup is looking healthy these days with seven models, including the small GLA, GLC, GLC Coupe, mid-size GLE, GLE Coupe, three-row GLS, and adventure-ready G-Class.
Related – 2019 + 2020 Best Small SUVs & Crossovers Buyer’s Guide
Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe vs. SUV differences
The main difference is the design and body type. The coupe takes on a more sedan-esque profile with that sportback, sloping rear design. Whereas the GLC SUV is void of that long, sweeping rear windshield, taking on a more conventional SUV look with a sharper drop-off behind the C-pillar. So really, it just comes down to styling and driving dynamics.
Overall, the GLC Coupe is the ideal empty-nester luxury mobile, offering the sportiness of a sedan with the space and cargo of a crossover or SUV. However, the ambiguous styling may not be for everyone — we feel the boxy GLK should make a comeback. But that’s just us, and we’re not empty nesters.
