Mercedes GLC SUV (2015-2018) review

The Mercedes GLC is a family SUV that’s comfortable and fun to drive. The Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Range Rover Evoque are its closest rivals in terms of price and equipment.

The beautifully designed interior along with the easy-to-use layout and superb quality is taken straight from the C-Class – this means the GLC has arguably the poshest feeling cabin in its class. Interior space is generous and the boot is bigger than its rivals, although the hybrid version makes do with smaller capacity because the batteries are under the boot floor.

Several different driving modes can transform how the GLC drives with a push of a button – it can be a comfortable motorway cruiser, a fairly capable off roader or a car that can drive relatively fast along B-roads with minimal body roll. On the road, testers compare it to the quiet and composed C-Class and off the road the GLC has a range of electronic modes to help it overcome muddy fields and steep hills.

The original GLC replaced the Mercedes GLK, a car that was never sold here in the UK

Engine wise, there is only one diesel available at launch in two power levels. Both versions are frugal and powerful, but the lower powered version is so similar in terms of running costs and performance that most buyers will find it hard to justify the extra cost of the higher-powered option. Petrol alternatives, a hybrid and even a fuel-cell model will be available later in 2016.

As with any Mercedes there is a huge list of optional extras that add luxury and more features, but can also make the small SUV quite an expensive car. Nevertheless, the entry-level SE model’s standard equipment is plentiful with leather seats, a reversing camera, electrically opening boot and automatic climate control.