The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC is not an all-new vehicle. However, Mercedes made significant changes to the styling and powertrain to keep it fresh and updated. We first saw the updated GLC SUV at the Geneva Auto Show and we like what we’re seeing so far.
And even though the previous model GLC remains a top choice in the midsize luxury SUV segment, it’s competing with a long list of luxury stalwarts including the BMW X3, Porsche Macan, and Jaguar F-Pace.
Thankfully, Mercedes gave the 2020 GLC SUV a new set of features to redefine what buyers should expect from a luxury SUV.
Here are the biggest changes to expect from the new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The new Mercedes GLC has a sportier design
The 2020 GLC gets a new and sportier exterior. The changes are quite subtle, but the new radiator grilles have an energetic vibe. The new LED headlights are slimmer and get unique daytime driving lamps with a torch design. The front and rear bumpers are also new, and the vehicle gets new exhaust tips and chrome skid plates in the back for a more rugged appearance.
But we’re talking about a luxurious family off-roader, so Mercedes won’t be caught dead without giving the exterior a splash of luxury. This comes in the form of the Chrome Package that now comes standard in the new GLC. This package adds a bevy of chrome elements in the exterior to infuse a touch of class into an otherwise sporty body.
The new GLC has a more powerful engine
What we really like about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC is the new engine. The outgoing model came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder generating 241-horsepower. However, the new GLC is packing a revised version of the same turbocharged motor that produces 255-horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.
What’s more impressive is how the engine produces peak torque at lower engine speeds. In fact, you have access to mountains of torque from 1,800 rpm all the way to 4,000 rpm. This means you can escape with a drop of the pedal, which is the true measure of a real luxury vehicle.
The new and more powerful engine is connected to a 9G-Tronic automatic with rear-wheel drive in the GLC 300. The GLC 300 4MATIC receives an all-wheel-drive system.
It gets the new MBUX multimedia system
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC receives the latest-generation MBUX multimedia system. This new feature combines a touchscreen display, intelligent voice control, augmented video for navigation, and gesture control to adjust or configure the vehicle settings.
The new MBUX multimedia experience is further enhanced with touch control buttons in the steering wheel and center console. All the information is displayed in the 10.25-inch center touchscreen display while the driver has access to a digital instrument cluster.
There’s more good news. The MBUX system includes smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It gets a comprehensive array of advanced driver assistive kit
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC comes standard with active brake assist, crosswind assist, attention assist, and adaptive braking with hill start assist and brake hold feature. But it also receives the latest generation of intelligent driver assistance technology including active lane change assist, route-based speed navigation, active distance assist DISTRONIC system, and active steering assist. All of these helps the GLC provide a safer driving experience.
The new GLC is available as an AMG model
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is also available as an AMG model. Dubbed the AMG GLC 63, it comes with a burly 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 motor with 469-horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This magnificent engine is connected to an AMG-tuned 9-speed automatic and a revised 4MATIC+ all-wheel drivetrain.
Of course, the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 also comes with an electronic limited-slip differential, AMG performance exhaust, and AMG sports suspension.
But if you like a luxury SUV with a sloping roof design, the new GLC is also offered in a coupe version with four doors. It has a tapered and sloping roofline that sets it apart from the regular GLC SUV.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC, GLC Coupe, and AMG GLC 63 will arrive at U.S. dealerships in late 2019.