Mercedes’ second-gen mid-size SUV launches with GLC 300 only, but new GLC Coupe and AMG models on way
More variants of the new second-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC are on the way, but there’s bad news for anyone hoping for a more affordable entry model in the popular mid-size luxury SUV range – the only way is up.
Just a single, highly-specced Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC is currently offered at launch, starting at $103,370 plus on-road costs.
The previous entry-level GLC 200 petrol (last offered from $80,800) and GLC 300e plug-in hybrid (from $99,600) have been left on the bench this time around.
First to expand the local offering will be the GLC Coupe, which has already been revealed overseas.
Pricing and specifications are not yet confirmed but expect a similar approach to the standard SUV model, albeit with a slight price premium for its more rakish profile.
Also returning are the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 S models.
While still under wraps, these hi-po variants are virtually guaranteed to use the mechanicals found in the corresponding C-Class models.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe
That means the GLC 43 will bid farewell to the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 in favour of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with an electrically-boosted turbocharger producing 300kW and 500Nm for a sub-5.0sec 0-100km/h sprint.
Topping the range will be the GLC 63 S using a heavily uprated (350kW/545Nm) version of the C 43’s engine and plenty of electrical assistance to generate 500kW and 1020Nm.
Expect a 0-100km/h sprint in the 3.5sec range and a price tag to match.
Local pricing is still some way from being confirmed, but using the GLC 300’s $10K premium over the equivalent C 300 as a guide, we’d posit the GLC 43 will land around the $150,000 mark and the GLC 63 S will break through the $200,000 barrier.
While not technically a GLC, a new iteration of the EQC – Mercedes’ first Australian electric offering – will also appear in time, with production of the current version having now ceased.
This will complete Mercedes’ electric SUV range, with the currently available EQA and EQB set to be joined by the EQS and EQE later in 2023.
We’ve just driven the new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 on Aussie soil for the first time – see our review here.
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Keyword: New 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC range to expand