Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2016 GLC, the newly named second iteration of their outgoing small-sized SUV, the GLK. Introduced as a rival to the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, the GLC is Merc’s foray into a segment that has been witnessing consistent growth in the last couple of years. Gone is the boxy shape of the GLK, which has been replaced by a rounder, much smoother exterior design, and the GLC rather shares very little with its predecessor. The new GLC boasts the same rear-wheel-drive architecture that is found in the latest C-Class, and is destined to underpin most of Mercedes’ lineup over the coming decade.
The new mid-size SUV sits on a 4.6” longer wheelbase and gets about 3 more cubic feet of cargo space. It is packed with a lot more tech, and yet it is almost 110 pounds lighter than its predecessor. This has been made possible due to the multi-material construction of the car’s MRA platform, which strategically incorporates materials such as high-strength steel and aluminum to improve strength while at the same time reduce weight.
The 2016 GLC will be powered by a 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb. ft. of torque. The engine will come mated to a new nine-speed transmission. For Americans, the model will come initially in two versions; the GLC 300 and the GLC 300 4MATIC with permanent all-wheel drive. Prices have not been announced, but it’ll go on sale in Europe with a base price of €44,506 ($50,000 approximately).
[Via – Motor Authority]
