Used Mercedes-Benz GLC: Buyer's Guide
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC asserts itself as the benchmark in the premium SUV class, delivering a masterful blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics. It's a vehicle that offers the serene feeling of an interior inspired by the flagship S-Class, where every surface feels premium and the 64-colour ambient lighting creates your perfect sanctuary. This is all underpinned by a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and a practical 21.9 cubic foot boot, making it the intelligent and authoritative option.
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Popular Trims
Sport: The perfect entry to GLC ownership, featuring the stunning MBUX system, heated seats for those chilly mornings, and elegant 18-inch alloy wheels.
AMG Line: The sweet spot in the range. It adds a desirable sporting aesthetic with AMG body styling and larger 19-inch wheels, without compromising the fundamental comfort of the ride.
AMG Line Premium: Elevates the experience with a 360-degree camera for stress-free parking, and augmented reality navigation that overlays directions onto a live camera feed.
AMG Line Premium Plus: The ultimate indulgence. A panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with light, while the Burmester sound system provides an immersive audio experience.
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
Running Costs:
Expect real-world MPG of around 32-35 mpg.
Running Costs:
Achieves an impressive 41-48 mpg in real-world conditions.
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Practicality
The GLC proves that luxury and practicality are not mutually exclusive, offering a versatile and well-packaged interior.
Boot Space: A generous 21.9 cubic feet of luggage capacity is available with the rear seats up, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet when folded.
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: The standard all-wheel-drive system provides superior traction and stability in all weather conditions, a key advantage.
Towing Capacity: A maximum braked towing capacity of 2460 kg is a testament to the GLC's robust engineering and versatile capabilities.
Spare Tyre: Unlike many rivals, the GLC comes with a spare tyre as standard, providing crucial peace of mind on long journeys.
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Key Features
Key Features:
MBUX Infotainment with ""Hey Mercedes"" Voice Assistant
11.9-inch Portrait Touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive with Off-Road Mode
Heated Front Seats
Desirable Options:
Augmented Reality Navigation
360-Degree Parking Camera
Burmester High-End Surround Sound
Panoramic Glass Sunroof
Driving Assistance Package Plus
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Reliability Rating
The second-generation GLC is built to a standard that inspires confidence, with a strong focus on engineering integrity and a strong reputation for reliability.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
Gearbox: Check that the 9-speed automatic shifts smoothly under all conditions.
Electrics: Test all interior functions, including the MBUX screen and touch-sensitive controls, to ensure they are responsive.
Suspension: Listen for any unusual noises over bumps, which could indicate wear.
4MATIC System: On a safe, loose surface, check for smooth power delivery and the absence of any warning lights.
Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Safety Rating
The Mercedes-Benz GLC was awarded a full 5-star rating by Euro NCAP in 2023, confirming its position as a leader in vehicle safety.
Awards for the Used Mercedes-Benz GLC
What Car? Safety Award 2023
Who is the Used Mercedes-Benz GLC Best For?
Buyers who want the definitive, best-in-class premium SUV.
Drivers who see their car as a sanctuary and appreciate a confident, composed driving experience.
Tech-savvy individuals who demand the latest in-car technology and safety systems.
Families seeking a safe, practical, and luxurious SUV without compromise.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
BMW X3: The traditional choice for a more engaging, sporty drive.
Audi Q5: A strong contender, but the GLC's interior technology now sets the standard.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Mercedes-Benz GLC
How much is the road tax for a used Mercedes-Benz GLC?
The road tax for a used Mercedes-Benz GLC depends on its CO2 emissions and registration date, offering a clear cost structure for owners.
CO2 Emissions: With figures ranging from 153g/km to 205g/km, the first-year tax rate can vary significantly.
Standard Annual Rate: After the first year, most models registered after April 1st, 2017, fall into a standard annual VED rate, which is £180 per year.
Premium Rate: Be aware that models with a list price of over £40,000 when new are subject to an additional annual supplement for the first five years of the standard rate payment.
What should I budget for the annual service of a Mercedes-Benz GLC?
Budgeting for the annual service of a Mercedes-Benz GLC is straightforward, as costs are competitive for a premium SUV and service plans are available.
Service Plans: Vertu offers service plans that allow you to spread the cost of regular maintenance into manageable monthly payments.
Service Intervals: The car's onboard computer will notify you when a service is due, typically based on mileage and time.
Expert Technicians: All servicing at Vertu is carried out by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine parts, ensuring your vehicle is maintained to the highest standard.
How does the Mercedes-Benz GLC hold its value over time?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is known for holding its value well within the premium SUV segment, making it a sound long-term investment.
Brand Prestige: The desirability of the Mercedes-Benz brand underpins its strong residual values.
Model Popularity: As a popular and well-regarded model, consistent demand in the used market helps to keep its value stable.
Reliability Data: Reliability indexes, such as the low 1.1 breakdown-per-1,000-vehicles figure for 2020 models from ADAC, give buyers confidence and support resale values.
Which version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC falls into the lowest insurance group?
The insurance group for a Mercedes-Benz GLC varies by trim and engine, but you can identify the most cost-effective options for peace of mind.
Lowest Group: The GLC 300 models are typically in insurance group 34, making them among the most affordable to insure.
Mid-Range: Performance-oriented models like the AMG GLC 43 sit in a higher group, around 43.
Top-Tier: The range-topping AMG GLC 63 models are in the highest insurance bracket, group 50, reflecting their power and performance.
How does the MBUX infotainment system in the Mercedes-Benz GLC get updates?
The MBUX infotainment system in the Mercedes-Benz GLC is designed to stay current with seamless over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Automatic Updates: The system can automatically download and install software updates in the background, ensuring you always have the latest features and security patches.
User Interface: These updates can refine the user interface, improve voice command recognition, and enhance navigation functionality.
No Dealership Visit: This convenient feature means you do not need to visit a dealership for many system software updates.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay?
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is fully compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay, offering seamless integration with your iPhone.
Wireless Connection: You can connect your iPhone to the MBUX system without needing a cable for a clean, uncluttered cabin experience.
Full Functionality: Access your music, maps, messages, and other favourite apps directly on the large 11.9-inch central touchscreen.
Voice Control: Use Siri voice commands through the car's microphone for safe, hands-free operation while driving.
What is the Transparent Bonnet feature on the Mercedes-Benz GLC?
The Transparent Bonnet is an innovative camera-based feature on the Mercedes-Benz GLC designed to give you complete confidence during off-road driving.
Virtual View: It uses the front-facing camera to create a virtual view of the ground directly underneath the front of the car, including the position of the front wheels.
Obstacle Awareness: This allows you to see rocks, ruts, and other obstacles that would normally be hidden from view, making it easier to navigate challenging terrain.
Enhanced Control: The feature is part of the 360-degree camera system and provides an unparalleled level of visibility and control when you need it most.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLC come with a spare tyre as standard?
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLC comes equipped with a spare tyre as standard, providing extra peace of mind on long journeys.
Practicality: Unlike many modern rivals that provide a tyre repair kit, the GLC includes a physical spare wheel.
Convenience: Having a spare tyre means you can get back on the road more quickly and easily in the event of a puncture.
Location: The spare tyre is located neatly under the boot floor, so it doesn't compromise the generous 21.9 cubic feet of luggage space.
How does the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system on the Mercedes-Benz GLC perform off-road?
The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system in the Mercedes-Benz GLC is highly capable, providing excellent traction and stability in a variety of off-road conditions.
Intelligent Torque Distribution: The system constantly monitors grip and can distribute power between the front and rear wheels to maximise traction.
Off-Road Mode: The GLC features a dedicated off-road driving mode that optimises the throttle response, gearshifts, and traction control for rough terrain.
Confident Handling: Combined with features like the Transparent Bonnet, the 4MATIC system allows the GLC to handle challenging off-road situations with confidence and ease.
