GLC250 2.0 Urban Edition 9G-Tronic Plus 4MATIC 5dr

Very Nearly, But Not Quite

I traded up to the GLC from a C250 Avantgarde diesel estate expecting greater comfort and I have not been disappointed in that regard. The cabin is a nice place to be and the extra height between seat squab and floor means the seated position is much more comfortable than the former, even on the longest drives. The switchable dynamics are fun to play with and make a tangible difference to the handling and performance, although it’s usually left in Comfort setting, and the surefootedness of 4WD was reassuring in wet conditions.

On the downside are issues that made the ownership experience less enjoyable… The Collision Avoidance System, whilst undoubtedly a major safety feature, is not infallible and has false-sensed gateposts and parked vehicles quite frequently, and at least once emergency-braked unnecessarily, which was alarming. Almost from day-one the EML has been continuously illuminated, as it was in my previous MB. This is a technical MOT failure and quite simply should not occur but, in my experience, is far too common a problem on vehicles from many manufacturers.

In moving from diesel to petrol I expected to feel the fuel consumption difference, but the reality was a shock… double the amount of fuel required. The C250 would do London to St Ives, Cornwall and back on a tank, with some to spare. The GLC needs almost a tankful in each direction - returning very, very low 20s around town, never more than low 30s on a motorway trip. Despite the car's size, the boot cannot accommodate a golf bag without lowering the rear seat, but the lip height and generous opening make loading and unloading easy.

In summary, a capable and comfortable car which managed to not-quite meet expectations. I very-much want to be more positive but, when I consider the cost and the minor technical issues, I am unconvinced that the experience gained justified the expense of ownership.

Report as offensive