Flash Drive

2020 Mercedes GLC 300

July 22, 2020 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2020 Mercedes GLC 300 4Matic SUV

The 2020 Mercedes GLC 300 4Matic in Brilliant Blue Metallic is handsome SUV that’s loaded with great features.

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 255 horsepower, 273 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 9-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 21-mpg city, 28-mpg highway, 24-mpg combined

Base Price: $44,500

As Tested: $60,875

Performance:

Strong performance from relatively small turbocharged I-4

Excellent acceleration

The Mercedes GLC 300 looks sharp from all angles.

Smooth, efficient 9-speed automatic

Good fuel economy in upper twenties

Lots of driving modes: sport, sport plus, comfort, Eco, off road, off road plus

Super smooth highway ride

Confident, athletic off-road

Excellent brakes

Comfort:

Super stretch-out front row legroom

Great supportive front seats with power lumbar

Front seat space and comfort are outstanding. Long drives are a pleasure.

Power thigh support

Heated and ventilated seats (3 temps)

Great thick, heated steering wheel

Power tilt/telescopic

High quality interior materials

Good backseat room

Adult can fit in middle, but big floor hump and firm cushion

Utility:

Power liftgate easily clears tall people

No lift-over

Rear seat room and comfort are very good, although the middle position is rather firm.

Flat cargo deck

Ample cargo space

Split seats fold flat

Seat releases by liftgate

Large locking storage under cargo deck

Big deep console bin

Medium to big front door bins

WOW Factors:

Sharp styling

Strong performance from a four-cylinder engine

Cargo space is very good. There is locking storage under the cargo deck.

Great long distance touring car

Enjoyable to drive in all weather conditions

Brilliant Blue Metallic paint worth the optional charge

Great panoramic roof brightens interior

Locking storage under cargo deck

Power lumbar support for both front seats

Whines:

Small auxiliary touch pads on steering wheel take time to master

The GLC series Mercedes spend most of their time on paved roads, but the vehicles are highly competent off-road.

Options can run up price

Bottom Line:

The 2020 Mercedes GLC 300 4Matic isn’t inexpensive, but it provides a lot of what people expect from a Mercedes for not much more than far less prestigious competitors. The GLC 300 does a great job of combining luxury, performance, comfort, safety, and utility. If you go a little easy on the option list the GLC could be considered almost a bargain, because all the core desirable Mercedes traits are standard.