The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC emerges as a frontrunner in the competitive luxury SUV market, continuing its legacy as Mercedes-Benz USA’s top-selling model. Building on the esteemed GLK lineage, the 2021 GLC offers a blend of sophisticated design, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance. This model year introduces enhanced standard features and expanded options, solidifying its position as a benchmark in ride quality, handling, safety innovation, and user-centric comfort.
Exploring the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Model Range and Pricing
Mercedes-Benz caters to diverse preferences and performance demands with the 2021 GLC SUV lineup. From the well-appointed GLC 300 to the high-performance AMG variants, there’s a GLC model to match various driving styles and budgets.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV (RWD): Starting at $43,200, this model provides a luxurious entry point into the GLC family with rear-wheel drive.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC SUV: Priced at $45,200, the 4MATIC variant enhances all-weather confidence with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned all-wheel-drive system.
- Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV: Stepping up in performance, the AMG GLC 43 starts at $59,900, delivering amplified power and AMG-specific enhancements.
- Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 SUV: The pinnacle of GLC performance, the AMG GLC 63, begins at $73,900, offering handcrafted V8 power and track-ready capabilities.
Destination and delivery charges are excluded from the prices mentioned above.
What’s New in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC?
The 2021 model year brings notable enhancements, adding even more value and convenience to the GLC SUV. Mercedes-Benz has listened to driver needs and incorporated sought-after features as standard while expanding standalone options for greater customization.
- Standard KEYLESS-GO: Enjoy effortless entry and ignition with the now standard KEYLESS-GO system across all GLC models.
- Enhanced Parking Assistance: Parking maneuvers become simpler and safer with standard PARKTRONIC featuring Active Parking Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
- New Exterior Color: Cirrus Silver joins the exterior color palette, offering a fresh and elegant option.
- Expanded Standalone Options (GLC 300/GLC 300 4MATIC): Customize your GLC 300 or GLC 300 4MATIC with standalone options including Surround View System, HANDS-FREE ACCESS, Dashcam, and Parking Damage Detection.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist as Standalone Option (GLC 300/GLC 300 4MATIC): Enhance nighttime visibility with the newly available standalone Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
- Standard Surround View System (GLC 63): The high-performance AMG GLC 63 now comes standard with the Surround View System for enhanced situational awareness.
Key Standard Features of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV
The 2021 GLC 300 SUV is generously equipped with a suite of premium features, emphasizing technology, comfort, and safety.
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Revolutionary MBUX System: Experience the future of in-car interaction with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system. This intelligent system boasts natural language understanding voice control (“Hey Mercedes”), a 12.3″ Digital Instrument Cluster, and a 10.25″ Touchscreen Multimedia Display.
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Advanced Lighting and Connectivity: LED headlamps and taillamps provide brilliant illumination, while Smartphone Integration with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity.
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Luxurious Comfort and Convenience: Heated front seats, power front seats with driver memory, a new-generation multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles, and a new-generation Touchpad enhance driver and passenger comfort.
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Essential Features: 18″ wheels, DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, KEYLESS-START®, KEYLESS-GO, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, a power liftgate, and 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats cater to everyday practicality.
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Comprehensive Safety Suite: Standard safety features include Active Brake Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, Adaptive Braking Technology, Crosswind Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST®, PRE-SAFE® System, and Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call Service.
Upgrading to AMG Performance: Exploring the 2021 AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 SUVs
For driving enthusiasts seeking elevated performance and dynamic handling, the AMG GLC models deliver an unmatched experience.
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV: AMG-Enhanced Performance and Style
Building upon the GLC 300’s foundation, the AMG GLC 43 SUV injects exhilarating AMG performance and distinctive styling.
- Potent AMG Engine: Powered by an AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.
- AMG-Tuned Dynamics: Features AMG Sport Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL, AMG Performance 4MATIC® (31:69), AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9-speed transmission, and AMG DYNAMIC SELECT for dynamic driving experiences.
- AMG Exclusive Design Cues: Sport an AMG Performance Steering Wheel and a new AMG-Specific Grille, visually setting it apart.
- Enhanced Features: Includes SiriusXM Radio, Blind Spot Assist, KEYLESS-GO®, 64-Color Ambient Lighting, AMG Illuminated Door Sills, and LED headlamps.
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 SUV: Handcrafted V8 Power and Track-Bred Performance
The AMG GLC 63 SUV represents the pinnacle of GLC performance, boasting a handcrafted V8 engine and track-inspired technology.
- Handcrafted AMG V8 Engine: Equipped with a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine generating 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.
- Advanced AMG Drivetrain: Features AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+® all-wheel drive with fully variable front/rear torque distribution for optimal traction and control.
- Performance-Focused Features: Includes Multimedia Package with Augmented Video for Navigation, 12.3″ Digital Instrument Cluster, electronic limited-slip differential, and AMG Performance Exhaust System.
Advanced Technology and Driver Assistance in the 2021 GLC
The 2021 GLC showcases Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation with its advanced technological features and comprehensive driver assistance systems.
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Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX): At the heart of the GLC’s technology is MBUX, a revolutionary multimedia system with artificial intelligence, intuitive operation, and natural language voice control. It learns user preferences and adapts to provide a personalized in-car experience.
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Comprehensive Driver Assistance Package: The GLC offers a suite of intelligent driver assistance systems designed to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue. This package includes:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC®: Adaptive cruise control that automatically adjusts speed based on traffic conditions.
- Route-Based Speed Adaptation: Proactively reduces speed for upcoming curves, junctions, and other road features by utilizing navigation map data.
- Active Steering Assist: Provides steering support to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Active Emergency Stop Assist: Safely brings the vehicle to a controlled stop if driver inactivity is detected.
- Active Lane Change Assist: Assists with lane changes in a cooperative and convenient manner.
- Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function: Helps prevent collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and crossing traffic.
- Active Speed Limit Assist: Automatically adapts vehicle speed to detected speed limits.
- Active Blind Spot Assist: Warns the driver of vehicles in blind spots and can provide corrective braking.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Vibrates the steering wheel and can apply braking to keep the vehicle in its lane.
- PRE-SAFE® Sound: Emits a sound to trigger the stapedius reflex in the ear, potentially reducing hearing damage in an accident.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC: Model Positioning and Market Stance
The Mercedes-Benz GLC solidifies its position as the midsize luxury SUV of choice, appealing to buyers seeking a harmonious blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. Its redesign and continuous feature enhancements keep it at the forefront of the competitive SUV landscape. The GLC’s popularity reflects its ability to meet the evolving needs and desires of modern luxury SUV buyers.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC Specifications at a Glance
| GLC 300 SUV (RWD) / GLC 300 4MATIC SUV | AMG GLC 43 SUV | AMG GLC 63 SUV | |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $43,200 / 4MATIC: $45,200 | $59,900 | $73,900 |
| Length | 183.3″ | 183.5″ | 184.3″ |
| Width w/mirrors (w/o mirrors) | 82.5″ (74.4″) | 82.5″ (76.0″) | 82.5″ (76.0″) |
| Height | 64.7″ | 64.1″ | 64″ |
| Wheelbase | 113.1″ | 113.1″ | 113.1″ |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,889 est. / 4MATIC: 3,977 est. | 4,173 est. | 4,486 est. |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy/comb) | 22 / 29 / 25 / 4MATIC: 21 / 28 / 23 | TBA | TBA |
| Engine | 2.0L Inline-4 turbo | AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | 2,996 cc | 3,982 cc |
| Drive Config. | Rear-Wheel Drive / 4MATIC: All-Wheel Drive | AMG Performance 4MATIC | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ |
| Performance | 255 hp / 273 lb-ft | 385 hp / 384 lb-ft | 469 hp / 479 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic | AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed |
| 0-60 mph (sec) | 6.1 / 4MATIC: 6.1 | 4.7 | 3.8 |
| Top speed (mph) | 130 (electronically limited) | 130* | 155 (electronically limited) |
| Main Competitors | BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus RX | Audi SQ5, BMW X3 M40i, Porsche Macan S | BMW X3 M, Porsche Macan Turbo |
*Electronically limited; increased to 155mph when selecting 21″ wheels with summer performance tires
Conclusion: The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC – A Leader in its Class
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC continues to reign as a top contender in the luxury SUV segment. With its range of models, from the efficient and luxurious GLC 300 to the high-performance AMG variants, the GLC offers something for every discerning buyer. The addition of new standard features and standalone options for 2021, combined with its advanced technology and driver-assistance systems, ensures the GLC remains a compelling and class-leading choice in the luxury SUV market.
