Mercedes-Benz GLC variants

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We were very impressed with the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 when we drove it in Germany, and you can read our review here. It is clearly a cut above the current GLC 43, largely because of its updated 3.0-litre inline-six M256 EVO engine with mild-hybrid assistance. This replaces the GLC 43’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, which makes 421hp but lacks the character expected of an AMG at this price point.The GLC 53 produces 449hp, a healthy 28hp increase, but the difference is about more than outright numbers. The straight-six sounds far more special, revs with greater enthusiasm and delivers its performance in a smoother, more effortless manner. It also feels properly rapid for an SUV of this size, while bringing back some of the sense of occasion that buyers expect from an AMG.So, if you can wait and are comfortable with the likely jump in price, the GLC 53 is worth waiting for. The GLC 43 remains a very quick and capable performance SUV, but the GLC 53’s six-cylinder engine gives it a more complete, more emotive AMG experience.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

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The Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d is a solid choice if you are looking for a premium diesel SUV with a strong balance of comfort, refinement and practicality. The 2020 and 2021 models are largely similar in terms of mechanicals, with the 2.0-litre diesel engine offering good performance and efficiency, and the overall package being well-suited to both city and highway use. This Mercedes-Benz car also has a comfortable ride, a premium cabin and a strong safety suite, making it a dependable long-term ownership proposition.If you are specifically looking for owner cars, it is worth checking Mercedes-Benz Certified listings, where you can often find well-maintained examples with service history and warranty coverage. Another good option is to visit spinny.com, India's no 1 pre-owned car platform, which is known for its quality used cars When evaluating used cars, prioritise vehicles with a full service record, low ownership and no accident history, and be prepared to pay a slight premium for a well-maintained example. Overall, the GLC 220d is a sensible and dependable choice in this segment, and a 2020 or 2021 model can represent good value if you find the right car.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

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The Mercedes-Benz GLC EV will only be launched in India in 2027, and its ICE counterpart is expected to follow after that - perhaps in late 2027. The ICE version is expected to resemble the new GLC EV on the outside and inside, featuring new details like the illuminated grille, 3-pointed star DRLs in the headlamps and tail-lamps, and the 39-inch Hyperscreen display on the dashboard. However, while the GLC EV is newly developed on a pure-electric skateboard platform, the ICE version is expected to be a heavy facelift of the current model, built on the same platform and using the same petrol and diesel engines. With all the updates, however, expect the price to go up, and while we can't say for sure as it's a long way off, it could go up to about Rs 95 lakh, on road, in some cities. If that is too much of a jump, and too much of a wait, the current GLC remains an excellent choice, with strong engines, great comfort and a well-appointed cabin. And if you're interested in an EV but don't want to wait until the GLC EV is launched, consider the BYD Sealion 7 or Tesla Model Y L.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

BYD Sealion 7

Tesla Model Y

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With 75-80% city use, some fun drives on weekends, and a clear need to keep the back seat calm, the Mercedes GLC 300 4MATIC fits your brief better right now. In slow to medium city speeds, this Mercedes-Benz car rides softer, so speed breakers and broken patches are handled with less bounce, and people in the back do not get tossed around. The steering is light at low speeds, and the automatic gearbox, which changes gears on its own, is very smooth, so daily traffic is easy, yet the engine still feels strong when you want to make a quick overtake. It is also quieter inside, which makes city trips feel less tiring.The trade-off is that when you really push on a fast road, the GLC does not feel as eager or as tight as the BMW. Pick the BMW X3 xDrive30 if you drive yourself most of the time and want a car that feels sharper and more connected on an open road. The new X3 also gives you the freshest design and tech today, which matters to you. Just note that its ride is firmer in the city, so the back seat will feel a bit more movement on rough roads than in the GLC.On waiting: a GLC facelift by 2026-27 is possible, but India timing is uncertain, and updates may be small. If “latest” is your top goal, the new X3 gives you that today. If city comfort for family comes first, the GLC 300 is the safer bet.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

BMW X3