The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV was unveiled in June 2022, with UK sales beginning later that year. It introduced a more refined design, updated interior technology and a range of electrified petrol and diesel engines.
Building on the success of the original GLC, the redesigned SUV offered more interior space, the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system and improved driver assistance technology. Its engine range included mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, giving buyers different ways to balance performance, fuel economy and everyday practicality.
Competing with premium family SUVs such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60, the second-generation GLC represented a significant step forward in comfort, technology and electrification.
In this guide, we’ll explore what changed with the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC, including its exterior design, interior features, hybrid engines and driving capabilities.
A Familiar Look with Modern Upgrades
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC retained the familiar proportions of its predecessor while introducing a more contemporary exterior and a significantly redesigned cabin. Built on an architecture shared with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, it offered a slightly longer body and increased interior space.
Exterior updates included:
- Redesigned LED headlights that connect visually with the front grille.
- A revised radiator grille with a more modern appearance.
- Slimmer, two-part LED rear lights that give the back of the SUV a wider look.
- Smoother bodywork and more pronounced wheel arches for a refined but muscular appearance.
- Sportier AMG Line styling, available on selected versions.
Inside, the changes were more substantial. The dashboard adopted a design inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s larger luxury models, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument display with an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented central touchscreen.
The updated MBUX infotainment system introduced more advanced voice controls, personalised driver settings and improved navigation functionality. Depending on specification, equipment could also include augmented-reality navigation, a head-up display and enhanced ambient lighting.
These changes gave the GLC a more modern, technology-focused interior while preserving the comfort and practicality expected from a premium family SUV.
If you’re comparing premium SUVs or considering changing your current vehicle, our car valuation guidance hub explains what affects a car’s value and what to consider before buying or selling.
Electrified Performance
One of the biggest developments introduced with the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC was its electrified engine range. Rather than relying solely on conventional petrol and diesel power, Mercedes-Benz incorporated hybrid technology throughout the line-up.
48-Volt Mild-Hybrid Technology
The GLC’s petrol and diesel mild-hybrid models used a 48-volt electrical system with an integrated starter-generator. This technology helped improve efficiency and provided additional assistance during acceleration.
The system offered several benefits:
- Energy recovery: Capturing energy during braking and deceleration.
- Engine-off coasting: Allowing the combustion engine to switch off temporarily in suitable driving conditions.
- Additional acceleration assistance: Providing a short electrical boost when required.
- Smoother stop-start operation: Helping the engine restart more smoothly and efficiently.
Unlike a plug-in hybrid, a mild-hybrid GLC cannot drive meaningful distances using electric power alone.
Plug-In Hybrid Options
The second-generation GLC also introduced more advanced plug-in hybrid technology, including the petrol-powered GLC 300 e 4MATIC and diesel-powered GLC 300 de 4MATIC.
These models combined a four-cylinder combustion engine with a more powerful electric motor and a rechargeable high-voltage battery.
The plug-in hybrid system allowed drivers to:
- Complete many shorter journeys using electric power alone, depending on battery charge and driving conditions.
- Recharge the battery using a suitable home charger or public charging point.
- Combine petrol or diesel power with electric assistance for longer journeys.
- Reduce fuel consumption when the battery was charged regularly and the vehicle was driven efficiently.
At launch, Mercedes-Benz quoted an electric driving range of more than 62 miles under WLTP testing for its new GLC plug-in hybrids. Actual range depends on the model, weather, driving conditions and battery usage.
Choosing Between Mild-Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid
The mild-hybrid versions offered a straightforward option for drivers who wanted improved efficiency without having to plug in their vehicle.
Plug-in hybrids were particularly appealing to motorists who could charge regularly and complete much of their daily driving on electric power, while retaining a combustion engine for longer journeys.
For drivers comparing electrified vehicles with conventional petrol and diesel models, it’s also worth considering how running costs, reliability and maintenance affect long-term ownership. Our definitive guide to car maintenance explains the routine checks and servicing considerations that help keep a vehicle in good condition.
Ready for the Road — and Beyond
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC was designed primarily as a comfortable, capable road-going SUV, but its 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system also provided additional traction in challenging conditions.
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC system distributes power between the front and rear wheels to help maintain traction and stability. This can be particularly useful on wet roads, loose surfaces and uneven terrain.
Combined with the GLC’s automatic transmission and electronic stability systems, 4MATIC helped provide confident handling across a range of driving conditions.
Off-Road Driving Technology
The second-generation GLC introduced several technologies designed to make driving away from paved roads easier.
Depending on the model and equipment specification, these included:
- Off-road driving mode: Adjusting vehicle settings for driving on suitable rough or loose surfaces.
- Downhill Speed Regulation: Helping the driver maintain a controlled speed when descending steep slopes.
- Off-road information display: Showing useful information such as vehicle inclination, gradient and steering angle.
- 360-degree camera system: Providing additional visibility when manoeuvring in confined spaces.
- Transparent bonnet technology: Using camera images to create a virtual view of the ground immediately ahead of and beneath the front of the vehicle.
The transparent bonnet function was particularly useful when navigating obstacles at low speeds, helping drivers identify hazards that would otherwise be difficult to see from the driving position.
Comfort and Handling on the Road
The GLC also offered technology intended to improve everyday driving comfort. Depending on specification, available features included AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering.
AIRMATIC could adapt the suspension characteristics to suit different driving conditions, while rear-axle steering helped improve manoeuvrability at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds.
Although the GLC offered useful off-road capabilities, it remained primarily a premium family SUV rather than a specialist off-road vehicle. Its combination of comfort, traction and advanced technology was designed to make it versatile for everyday motoring.
Pricing and Availability
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC went on sale in the UK in September 2022, with the first customer deliveries expected in January 2023.
At launch, the GLC was available in several equipment grades, including AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus.
Original UK Launch Prices
Mercedes-Benz’s published September 2022 pricing included:
| Model | Starting on-the-road price |
|---|---|
| GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line | £51,855 |
| GLC 300 4MATIC AMG Line | £53,755 |
| GLC 300 e 4MATIC AMG Line | £62,210 |
| GLC 300 d 4MATIC AMG Line Premium | £60,395 |
These figures represent original UK launch prices, not current new-car prices or used-car valuations.
Buying a Used Mercedes-Benz GLC
For motorists considering a second-generation GLC on the used market, prices depend on the vehicle’s age, mileage, condition, service history and specification.
It’s also worth checking which equipment is fitted to an individual vehicle, as features such as upgraded suspension, advanced driver assistance systems and premium interior technology were not included on every version.
Plug-in hybrid buyers should additionally consider charging access and whether their regular journeys would allow them to benefit from electric driving.
As with any used premium SUV, reviewing the maintenance history and potential running costs is important before making a purchase. Our guide to legal vehicle maintenance requirements in the UK explains the responsibilities involved in keeping a vehicle safe and roadworthy.
Thinking of upgrading your SUV?
Whether you’re considering a second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC or comparing other premium SUVs, understanding the value of your current vehicle is an important part of planning your next purchase.
If you’re ready to change your car, you can sell your car with Jamjar and compare offers from UK car buyers without having to negotiate with individual dealers.