The 2017 Benz GLC SUV marked a significant entry in the luxury compact SUV market, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz sophistication, advanced technology, and versatile performance. This model year presented a compelling option for buyers seeking a premium driving experience with practical SUV capabilities. Let’s delve into the standard features, optional packages, and performance highlights that defined the 2017 GLC SUV.
Standard Features and Technology
The 2017 GLC300, the base model, came generously equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. Exterior highlights included 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and distinctive LED daytime running lights, establishing its modern and elegant presence. Functionality was boosted by features like a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, and automatic wipers, adding to the vehicle’s user-friendly design. For enhanced ride quality, adaptive suspension damping was standard, automatically adjusting to road conditions, though not driver-selectable.
Inside the cabin, the GLC300 prioritized comfort and technology. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensured a pleasant environment for both driver and passengers, while adjustable drive settings allowed customization of the driving experience. The interior featured synthetic leather upholstery (MB-Tex), a 14-way power driver seat with memory, and versatile 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats, accommodating both passengers and cargo with ease. Technological amenities included keyless remote entry and ignition, a universal garage door opener, and a rearview camera for enhanced visibility. The infotainment system featured a 7-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, Mbrace Connect with smartphone app integration, and an eight-speaker sound system complete with a CD player, HD radio, and dual USB ports. Standard advanced safety features were also a priority, incorporating forward collision warning and mitigation, a drowsy driver warning system, and crosswind assistance, underscoring Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety.
Optional Packages and Upgrades
For buyers seeking to further personalize their 2017 Benz GLC SUV, Mercedes-Benz offered a variety of optional packages. The Premium 1 package added valuable features such as blind-spot monitoring, advanced keyless entry, a convenient household-style 115-volt power outlet, and satellite radio. Stepping up to the Premium 2 package encompassed all features of Premium 1 and further enhanced the technology with a navigation system including voice control, an upgraded 8.4-inch display, and real-time traffic and weather updates. It also included a touchpad controller, a cargo net, and a collapsible crate in the cargo area, adding practicality. The most comprehensive, the Premium 3 package, built upon Premium 2 by integrating advanced driver assistance and lighting technologies. This included adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, active lane keeping assist, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, active blind-spot assistance, and even an air freshener and purification system for cabin ambiance.
For a sportier aesthetic and driving dynamics, the Sport package offered sporty body styling, larger 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and refined stitched MB-Tex dash trim. The Night package took the Sport package a step further, featuring the same equipment but with distinctive gloss black exterior accents and black wheels for a bolder visual statement. Parking convenience was addressed with the Active Parking Assist package, which included front and rear parking sensors, an automated parking system, hands-free liftgate activation, and a surround-view camera system, making maneuvering in tight spaces easier.
Beyond packages, a wide array of standalone options allowed for highly customized configurations. These included larger 20-inch wheels, an adaptive air suspension for enhanced comfort and handling, a panoramic sunroof, a roof spoiler, and an illuminated Mercedes grille star for added visual appeal. Interior upgrades comprised a head-up display, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and rear side-window sunshades. Connectivity and entertainment options included a Wi-Fi hot spot, a premium 14-speaker Burmester surround sound system, and internet streaming radio. Mercedes Mbrace options were also available, providing emergency telematics and concierge services for added peace of mind and convenience.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2017 Benz GLC300 models were powered by a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels as standard, with the option for 4Matic all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and all-weather capability. Performance testing by Edmunds revealed a rear-wheel-drive GLC300 accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds, a notably quick time for the base engine in this vehicle class.
For those seeking elevated performance, the AMG GLC 43 model presented a significant step up. It featured standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned air suspension, and larger 20-inch wheels. The heart of the AMG GLC 43 was a potent turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, delivering thrilling acceleration and dynamic driving characteristics. It also came standard with the Premium 1 package and unique AMG-specific exterior and interior design elements, distinguishing it from the standard GLC300 models.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency was also a strong point for the 2017 Benz GLC SUV. EPA estimates for the GLC300 were 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway) for the rear-wheel-drive model and 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway) for the 4Matic version. These figures were considered quite competitive within the compact luxury crossover segment, balancing performance with reasonable fuel consumption.
Conclusion
The 2017 Benz GLC SUV successfully combined luxury, technology, and performance in a versatile compact SUV package. Whether opting for the well-equipped GLC300 or the performance-oriented AMG GLC 43, buyers were presented with a compelling range of features and options to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. Its blend of standard luxury features, available advanced technology packages, and efficient yet powerful engines made the 2017 GLC SUV a standout choice in its class.
