The new-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATICc Coupe will be priced from $113,900 plus on-road costs when orders open this Friday (November 24) – more than $10,500 upstream of the equivalent GLC wagon.
With first examples of the new Audi Q5 Sportback, BMW X4 and Porsche Macan rival due in local showrooms imminently, the new GLC Coupe features all the generational gains of its SUV sibling, including increased dimensions, more passenger and cargo room, a new platform and powertrain, a heap of next-gen tech and an inflated price to match.
The new model is $10,430 dearer than its predecessor and yet Mercedes-Benz insists it offers superior value through its extra standard equipment and new componentry, headlined by the new 190kW/400Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine.
Boosted by a 48V mild-hybrid system and integrated starter generator (ISG) that deliver an extra 17kW/200Nm, the powerplant is identical to the one used in the GLC 300 4MATIC SUV and, as such, drives all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.
It doesn’t pack any extra punch or outright performance compared to the SUV, but the GLE Coupe does up the visual ante with its sloping roofline, plus 20-inch AMG alloys, Night Package exterior trim enhancements, AMG Line exterior and AMG body styling.
The sportier look is paired with a sports suspension tune for sharper handling, but the sleeker back-end design predictably compromises boot space compared to the SUV (545 litres versus 620L) – even though it’s up a healthy 45 litres on the old model.
Fold the second row flat and the space grows by 90 litres to 1490L.
Occupants are also greeted by a sportier version of the GLC SUV’s cabin, in which headline appointments include an 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment touch-screen, a head-up display, electric front seats with memory and heating, Nappa leather sports steering wheel, Artico-upholstered sports front seats and wireless phone charging.
Other key inclusions comprise a panoramic sunroof, smartphone mirroring, heat-insulating dark tinted glass, keyless entry/start, LED high-performance headlights, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, off-road drive mode and a matching transparent bonnet display.
“A raft of significant updates including key drivetrain improvements, expanded dimensions and a packed standard equipment list are just some of the highlights of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic Coupe,” said Mercedes-Benz Australia.
“And with its rakish design and sporty stance, it presents an emotively appealing alternative to its practical sibling, the wagon-based GLC SUV.”
Like its wagon sibling, the GLC Coupe is only being offered here in the single guise for now, but more variants including the aggro AMG versions will materialise in the next 18 months or so.