Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 2016 Long-term Review - 2

I'm a prime target for Mercedes-Benz's latest prestige family-friendly offering. With new wheels on the cards – all-the-while debating the ‘to SUV or to not SUV' dilemma – my time living with the new Mercedes-Benz GLC was more personal than usual. A week in the long-term GLC raised more questions than it did answers. And the results… were inconclusive.

 To date, for me, there's not been a medium SUV with the lure of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 250. A gutsy 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, favourable German genes, top-notch safety and good kit build a strong case. But after some time behind the wheel, it seems that it's the GLC's car-like character that is one of its biggest drawcards. So why would I SUV?

The moment I slide into the GLC, it gains points – because I don't have to use a side step, bust a seam or muster any effort to actually get in. I'm not that tall, and it's possibly something to do with getting older, so ease of access is of growing importance.

Behind the wheel, the view is commanding, but not so much that you're looking down on the world. You still feel like you're sitting in the car, nestled behind the wheel, rather than perched on top. And forward visibility is good and the electrically-adjustable leather seats make it easy to get comfortable. Seat memory function would have completed this picture further.

The GLC's interior is undeniably prestige, and makes some of its rivals – think X3 – feel a little conservative by comparison. It is a pretty busy line-up, however. But, invest some time in getting to know every button and the quickest pathways and it's actually fairly intuitive.

Having said that, the command centre requires a level of dexterous coordination that wasn't always at the ready, but the Merc's system is not unique in this regard.

The technology at hand is generous, but costly. Our long-termer is fitted with the COMAND multimedia package ($2990), which includes the tablet style 8.4-inch touch screen, sat nav, Bluetooth, voice command and surround sound, as well as the VISION package ($3990) which brings a panoramic sunroof and head-up display to the game. All of which add the drama and ceremony you expect from the prestige badge.

A 360-view camera is standard kit and was invaluable in negotiating tight spaces in the GLC. Additional standard features such as adaptive cruise control, active lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic assist and blind-spot indicators strengthen Benz's offering yet again.

Ergonomics were good, with everything within easy reach and clear line of sight. There's a decent amount of storage space up front too, including a large twin-lid centre console and smaller lidded space for smaller items.

Just shy of 4700mm in length, 1890mm wide and standing 1639mm tall, its silhouette and proportions are large enough to look the part; but for the most part the GLC felt very much like a car, and given its versatile space, should I say wagon..?

With 550-litres cargo space, the GLC easily coped with kids' bikes, suitcases and other random child-related detritus. The load height is also more manageable than some higher-riding SUVs. And the quick release button located in the boot means you can easily change the seating configuration while you're loading if need be. The 40:20:40 seat split offers maximum load versatility, too.

With just two adult passengers in the second row, space is generous. Three is doable. And three kids are easily accommodated. The large centre armrest offers two sturdy cup holders and a storage compartment, while also providing a useful separation mechanism when all hell breaks lose in the second row.

In-door storage, back of seat pockets and dedicated directional air vents were all welcome features. A charge point would be a useful addition.

At the end of the day – comfort, design and versatility accolades noted – it was the GLC's on-road performance that impressed. The 2.0-litre engine is lively and I love the nine-speed auto, it feels like you're backed with just the right amount of power, all the time; and with minimal fuss; no laboured revving or clumsy changes.

The paddle shifters are a welcome feature, but when I'm carting the kids around, the less decisions the better. Likewise for multiple drive modes. With five to choose from, there's room to finesse your ride feel, but I found Comfort mode just about spot on for my needs.

Freeway overtaking was effortless for the GLC, the engine quick to kick down to bring pace to the situation. All the while, the cabin remains quiet and composed.

It's no sports car, but sporty character of the suspension and a sure-footed ride contribute to an athletic feel, without compromising comfort levels. The GLC feels like a sensible and transparent package in this regard.

My time in the GLC was suitably economical, with an average consumption of around 9.6L/100km – most of it in a city-driving scenario.

I'm not alone in my fondness for Benz's newest SUV. Of the 2375 medium prestige SUV sales in January, 587 were the new GLC (its nearest rival being the new Land Rover Discovery Sport at 339 units). The popular BMW X3 and Audi Q5 have a strong rival to contend with.

At the end of my time in our long-termer, the GLC has ticked many boxes; I've just about mastered the technology interface and its premium feel has endeared itself no end. Its car-like ride and handling and versatile space give me reason to think more seriously about the switch to a SUV, but I'm not there yet.

However, my reluctance to jack-up my ride remains.

Related reading:
>> Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 Long-Term Introduction
>> Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 Long-Term Update
>> Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 v Audi Q5 v BMW X3 Comparison
>> Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 Video Review

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 pricing and specifications:
Price: $74,880 (as tested, plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 155kW/350Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.2L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 168g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

What we liked:
>> Fluid nine-speed auto
>> Commanding ride height
>> Ride comfort levels

Not so much:
>> Infotainment interface
>> Pricey options
>> I'd still prefer a C-Class Estate