Business / New Cars

Mercedes-Benz launches All New GLC SUV

By Gong Zhengzheng and Yang Cheng (China Daily) Updated: 2015-11-20 10:02

In Golmud, Qinghai province, the GLC SUV underwent strict testing overseen by MB engineers. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Unlike its square though attractive predecessor, the new GLC features a streamlined, contoured design, interpreting the model's GLK heritage in an entirely new design language, in all aspects and dimensions. The company's "sensual purity" design language marks every aspect of the exterior, from the front with a short, succinct overhang, to the three-dimensional radiator grille with win louver and centrally positioned brand star.

The GLC's interior is significantly upgraded from that of the GLK, with sensual purity meeting dynamic sportiness. As a SUV model, the GLC completely revolutionized traditional ideas of SUV interiors and generated a sedan-equivalent atmosphere with a swooping center console and ample interior space.

In addition, premium materials exude a hand-crafted character, with meticulously finished details and an appealing overall touch and feel. It features Mercedes-Benz's remarkable touch-pad in the center armrest, which is capable of recognizing handwritten Chinese character input.

Mercedes-Benz sticks unswervingly to its philosophy of "safety first", and therefore the All New GLC SUV's intelligent assistance systems rival those of Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicles, such as the Distronic Plus, which is unique to its category.

Other intelligent driving systems includes Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist and Active Parking Assist systems, which come as standard configurations across the entire model line, in addition to a 360 degree camera, thus serving as both a bodyguard and a travel companion as the driver travels to anywhere in the world.

It also clearly makes its mark with featured state-of-the-art assistance systems and outstanding energy efficiency, such as the company's independently developed and advanced 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

The 9G-Tronic's nine gears enable comfortable, fuel-efficient driving at low revs and gentle, almost imperceptible gear changes, as if the transmission were infinitely variable.

Compared to the GLK, the interior of the new GLC is substantially more spacious for front and rear occupants alike. The All New GLC is 100 mm longer, 50 mm wider, with a wheelbase increased by 118 mm. This translates directly into increased comfort and convenience for occupants, making it the most versatile mid-size SUV ever for Chinese customers.

"Based on the needs of local customers, the All New GLC SUV has undergone a rigorous 420,000 km of testing across China, and takes into account the demands of local customers through appointments tailor-made for the China market," said Li Hongpeng, senior executive vice-president of BMBS.

"Through the dedicated cultivation of sales networks and the establishment of effective strategic partnerships with dealers based on mutual trust, we feel very confident that within China, the All New GLC SUV will continue to take the Mercedes-Benz legend into the future."