Mercedes-Benz crammed 2015 with 15 new model launches, and if you think the onslaught is over, the German luxury carmaker has a long list of cars lined up for India this year too. One of the most prominent will be the GLC SUV, which made its India debut at the 2016 Auto Expo. Here are five must-know facts about the Mercedes GLC.
1) It’s based on the C-class sedan
Like the A-class’s and the E-class’s SUV equivalents, the GLA and GLE respectively, the GLC is the SUV counterpart of the C-class sedan. The GLC shares its underpinnings and styling cues with its sedan sibling. However, the longer wheelbase and taller cabin mean that the GLC will be roomier. The SUV will also carry over the sedan’s class-leading interior.
2) It’s powered by Mercedes’ 2.1-litre diesel engine
The GLC bound for India will get a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that does duty in a majority of cars in Mercedes’ India line-up. The engine is likely to be available in 170hp and 204hp states of tune. However, a petrol variant may also be on the cards.
3) It gets Mercedes’ new nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard
Transmission duties will be handled by Mercedes’ new nine-speed automatic gearbox. Although this isn’t an all-out off-roader, the GLC is expected to be sold with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, at least on some variants.
4) It will cost around Rs 45-55 lakh (ex-showroom)
Slotted between the GLA and the GLE in Mercedes’ SUV portfolio, the GLC will be a direct rival to the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Volvo XC60, and it’s the first time Mercedes has brought in a model to this segment in India. Expect the GLC range to be in the Rs 45-55 lakh price range.
5) It will be launched in the second half of 2016
Mercedes’ model onslaught for 2016 has already begun with the C 250d, Maybach S 600 Guard, GLE 450 AMG Coupe and the S 400 L, and that’s just four out of the 12 models planned. However, don’t expect to see the GLC in showrooms before the second half of the year.
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