2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLC Coupe Get a New Engine and More
The new and improved 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC compact luxury SUV and its GLC Coupe counterpart have now been revealed. While the evolution appears to be subtle, there’s more than meets the eye.
On the outside, the front and rear bumpers have been slightly redesigned, while the grille looks a tad different. The standard LED headlights are smaller and more raked than in the past, and feature modified contours and torch-shaped daytime running lights.
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There’s a new graphite grey body colour available along with five new wheel designs ranging from 19 to 20 inches in diameter.
MBUX Changes Everything
The updates to the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLC Coupe are somewhat more significant inside. Obviously, the first thing that will catch your attention is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, which offers natural voice control and enhances the interaction between the driver and the vehicle.
The free-standing multimedia display in the centre is available in two sizes: 7.0 and 10.25 inches. A large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is optional. On these screens, the driver can choose from three designs: "Classic", "Sport" and "Progressive."
A cool innovation of MBUX is augmented reality navigation, which juxtaposes navigation data onto video taken from the front camera to help the driver understand exactly where to turn or where a specific address is located.
Two new wood surface finishes are available in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLC Coupe. More importantly, though, the updated, sportier-looking multifunction steering wheel now comes in two versions and features Touch Control buttons that enable the driver to control the instrument cluster and other systems. Telematics functions can be operated via the multifunctional touchpad on the centre console, which replaces the rotary COMAND controller.
Increased Power and Safety
More fun will be had on the road thanks to a new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Power is up from 241 to 255 hp, while peak torque amounts to 273 lb.-ft. It is said to simultaneously reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy by using a variable valve control technology that heats up the exhaust system without increasing consumption. No word yet on AMG models, however.
As for safety, the Intelligent Drive Package in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLC Coupe now includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist with turn-off and cross-traffic function, along with PRE-SAFE PLUS.
Also, when drivers activate the optional Active Parking Assist system, the screen will display all identified parking spaces in the immediate surroundings. They can then select the parking manoeuvre via the touchpad, the touchscreen of the multimedia system or the right-hand control panel of the multifunction steering wheel. The system will provide assistance pulling into and reversing in and out of a parallel or perpendicular parking space.
The updated 2020 GLC and GLC Coupe will make their public debut at the New York Auto Show next month and will go on sale toward the end of summer. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
