Self tests. Mercedes GLC 220 d: back to the top

Hybrid. No one can escape that, and so not this second-generation GLC, which has all its engines, petrol, diesel and of course quick-rechargeable, more or less electrified. But the adjective perfectly fits the image of this giant ambassador of the Mercedes brand…

In the profile, we consider a break (lowered by 4 mm and extended by 6 cm); from the rear, it reflects an adventurous look with body-colored bumper, shield and dual exhaust outlets (dummy); from the front, its star-studded grille is almost sports car-like, with an AMG Line finish, with gorgeous air intakes on either side of the valance; finally, inside we find ourselves in the living room of a limousine. The phrase “you can’t please everyone” doesn’t apply to him. Its broad appeal can appeal to customers with very different wants and needs, provided they can afford the entry ticket.

An almost religious silence

In the controls of the diesel we discovered “GLC II”, we almost want to check that we have not taken the wrong assembly. Powered by an alternator-starter, this four-cylinder with “fuel” injection and supercharging runs in almost religious silence. It is difficult to find better than a winter retreat in the cell of an Aragonese monastery or in one of the peaceful rooms of Torre del Marques on the Catalan borders. You have to insist, clearly push past 3,000rpm and prioritize brutal acceleration to summon the soundtrack into the cabin. A little experience in Eco mode, when you don’t want it, when you get off your feet, the engine turns off completely and resumes its functions with complete discretion as soon as the road requires, without the slightest signal. The system, like block vigilance, actively campaigns for controlled consumption.

If you liked the interior of the new C-class, you will not be disappointed, the dashboard of the SUV is practically the same. Behind the steering wheel is the now familiar 11.9-inch touch panel and a fully digital phone (12.3 inches). With a little practice, they ended up “converting” the pages of this monumental database very neatly.

The pleasure of going off the beaten track

The GLC is also distinguished by its dynamic qualities, and it is not surprising. If you have four-wheel steering (steering angle 4.5°) and air shock absorbers (the €3,400 dynamic package is a must) you’ll be surprised at the comfort, dare we say ‘agility’. despite two tons of animals. Since tar sometimes disappears in certain corners of our beautiful planet, know that the star SUV of the German house goes from civilization to the roads of the past without the slightest hesitation. With just one click, you can raise the body about fifteen millimeters and the integral 4Matic function follows you. The vast majority of delivered GLCs won’t spend most of their time plugging holes and eating rocks, but you should know that they can immediately accept such a diet with the same appetite as the idea of ​​a spin for a few thousand terminals on the highway. as long as his autonomy allows it.

More equipped than the basic version (richer than many high-end products from other manufacturers …), it retains all the qualities of its predecessor, benefiting from the latest technological follies. He is already on the road to success.