The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 stands out as a popular choice in the luxury compact SUV market, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance that appeals to a wide range of drivers. This model year marked the GLC’s second year in production, building upon the successful foundation laid by its predecessor and further refining the formula for a premium driving experience. Let’s delve into the standard and optional features that made the 2017 GLC 300 a sought-after vehicle.
The GLC 300 comes generously equipped right from the base model. Exterior highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels that provide a confident stance and smooth ride, automatic headlights and LED daytime running lights for enhanced visibility, and practical roof rails for added utility. The inclusion of adaptive suspension damping as standard contributes to a comfortable and controlled driving experience across various road conditions. Convenience features like keyless remote entry and ignition, a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, and automatic wipers further enhance the ease of daily use.
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2017 GLC 300, incorporating several advanced systems as standard. Forward collision warning and mitigation helps to prevent accidents, while the drowsy driver warning system promotes safer driving habits. Crosswind assistance adds stability in challenging windy conditions, demonstrating a commitment to driver and passenger security.
Inside the cabin, the GLC 300 provides a luxurious and comfortable environment. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both the driver and passenger. Adjustable drive settings allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preferences. The synthetic leather upholstery (MB-Tex) offers a premium feel, while the 14-way power driver seat with memory functions ensures optimal driving position. Practicality is further enhanced with 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats, a universal garage door opener, and a rearview camera for easier parking and maneuvering.
For infotainment and connectivity, the 2017 GLC 300 features a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, and Mbrace Connect for smartphone integration. An eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, and two USB ports provides ample entertainment options.
For those seeking even more features, Mercedes-Benz offered several appealing optional packages. The Premium 1 package added blind-spot monitoring for increased safety, advanced keyless entry for enhanced convenience, a household-style 115-volt power outlet for powering devices, and satellite radio for expanded entertainment choices. Stepping up to the Premium 2 package included all of the Premium 1 features and further enhanced the technology offerings with a navigation system featuring voice control, a larger 8.4-inch display, and real-time traffic and weather information. This package also added a touchpad controller for infotainment system navigation, a cargo net, and a collapsible crate in the cargo area for improved organization. The most comprehensive package, Premium 3, incorporated adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams for superior nighttime visibility, adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving, active lane keeping assist to help prevent unintentional lane departures, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection for enhanced safety, active blind-spot assistance, and even an air freshener and purification system for a more pleasant cabin environment.
Drivers looking for a sportier aesthetic could opt for the Sport package, which included sporty body styling, larger 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for improved stopping power, and stitched MB-Tex dash trim for a more dynamic interior feel. The Night package took the Sport package a step further, adding gloss black exterior accents and black wheels for a more aggressive and distinctive appearance. For parking convenience, the Active Parking Assist package added front and rear parking sensors, an automated parking system to simplify parking in tight spots, hands-free liftgate activation for easier cargo access, and a surround-view camera for a complete view around the vehicle.
Beyond packages, a range of standalone options allowed buyers to further personalize their 2017 GLC 300. These included larger 20-inch wheels for a more imposing look, an adaptive air suspension for an even smoother ride, a panoramic sunroof to enhance the sense of spaciousness, a roof spoiler for added sporty flair, an illuminated Mercedes grille star for a distinctive front-end appearance, and a head-up display to project important driving information onto the windshield. Interior upgrades included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and rear side-window sunshades for enhanced passenger comfort. For tech enthusiasts, options like a Wi-Fi hot spot, a premium 14-speaker Burmester surround sound system, and internet streaming radio were available. Mercedes Mbrace options also provided access to emergency telematics and concierge services.
Under the hood, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is powered by a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard configuration is rear-wheel drive, but the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system was also available for enhanced traction and all-weather capability. Performance is respectable for the class, with independent testing showing a rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds.
Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the 2017 GLC 300. EPA estimates for the rear-wheel-drive model are 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway), while the 4Matic version achieves 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). These figures are competitive within the luxury compact crossover segment, making the GLC 300 an efficient choice for daily driving and longer journeys.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 offered a compelling package of luxury, features, performance, and efficiency. Its extensive list of standard equipment, combined with a wide array of optional packages and standalone features, allowed buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences, solidifying its position as a top contender in the competitive luxury compact SUV market.
