by Key Update Highlights
Extending the Life of Conventional GLCs
Mercedes unveiled the completely new compact GLC model at the auto show in Munich in the fall, which for the first time received a fully electric powertrain. However, the brand wisely believes that the older gasoline versions of the GLC still have a lot of life left, hence giving them an update.
BMW thought along similar lines when it updated the X3 with internal combustion engines so it wouldn’t look outdated next to the new iX3, which debuted simultaneously with the GLC400 featuring EQ technology. However, Mercedes’ changes to the gasoline GLCs are not as radical as what BMW did with its rival X3.
Mercedes-AMG’s New GLC Is Going After Macan EV With Supercar Power
Where BMW received a number of body changes to align it with the Neue Klasse iX3 design, Benz seems to be limiting the GLC’s exterior updates to the radiator grille, bumpers, and lights. But that doesn’t mean it will be hard to distinguish the new SUV, likely arriving for the 2027 model year, from the old one.
Stars and Stripes
The updated GLC has star-shaped daytime running lights at the front and rear, which Mercedes is implementing across its lineup after they first appeared on the rear of the current 2023 E-Class. But the radiator grille might be the biggest indicator.
GLC SUV
Design Details
It’s hard to make out from these photos exactly what is happening on the front end under the camouflage, but the electric GLC introduced us to a new giant grille with horizontal slats that references Mercedes’ heritage, and we know the automaker plans to use it on most future models.
Therefore, we can probably expect a grille with a pronounced frame (the current gasoline GLC’s grille has almost no frame) and one that extends much lower towards the ground. Evidence of this in these images is that the round Mercedes badge, although covered, seems to be positioned lower than on existing gasoline GLCs.
Also possible, though not clear from these images, is the appearance of the full-width digital instrument panel from the GLC EQ.
Technical Features
The gasoline and electric SUVs use completely different platforms, and the gasoline GLC will heavily rely on a hybrid powertrain for its next chapter, including the high-performance AMG models. But the GLC63 will, fortunately, abandon the unloved 671-hp hybrid powertrain based on a 2.0-liter engine that it shares with the current C63 sedan, in favor of something with more cylinders.
The hybrid inline-six-cylinder engine from the E53 (currently producing 603 hp) is one possibility, although AMG is also working on a new flat-plane crank V8 that could truly make the GLC more powerful.
GLC Coupe
The GLC update reflects Mercedes’ strategy of balancing electrification with improvements to traditional internal combustion engines. This allows the brand to meet diverse customer needs, especially in markets where electric vehicle infrastructure is still developing. The enlarged radiator grille and the introduction of star-shaped daytime running lights not only refresh the exterior appearance but also strengthen the brand’s visual identity, which is important in the competitive luxury SUV segment. The shift towards hybrid technologies, especially for the high-performance AMG versions, indicates the company’s desire to combine performance with efficiency, which is becoming increasingly relevant in modern conditions.
