There’s luxury, and then there’s Mercedes-Benz, and if you’re in the market for a compact SUV that’s filled with upscale features, you’re in luck—the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC will captivate you. From its lively ride quality to its elegant ambiance inside and out, the GLC is a top pick for those searching for a daily travel companion that’s easy to drive and remarkably sophisticated. As you pass by your local Mercedes-Benz dealer, you may be wondering about your options. Whether you’re an everyday commuter with a long drive into the city or just want to ride in luxury, even if you’re simply stopping by the farmer’s market, you’ll want to pay special attention to the GLC. Take a look at this Mercedes-Benz GLC buyer’s guide to learn all there is to know about one of the best compact luxury travelers around.
Trim Selection
Mercedes-Benz doesn’t like to overwhelm its clientele with an abundance of trims that are all fairly similar yet vary greatly in price. Instead, this luxury automaker keeps it simple, with just a handful of options to choose from in the 2025 GLC lineup: the high-end Pinnacle, mid-level Exclusive, and base Premium. You can expect all GLC models to exude a lavish energy that can’t be rivaled by the competition, with an exterior that captures your attention through the clean lines and modern bodywork that can be viewed from front to back. There are 11 exterior colors available for 2025 to intensify this model’s appeal with discerning drivers everywhere.
You can expect the GLC to offer plenty of desirable features throughout, including 64-color ambient lighting and top-of-the-line appointments, especially when choosing the Pinnacle and Exclusive trims. Premium leather upholstery and a power moonroof can also be enjoyed as you make your way up the trim levels. Don’t assume that the base Premium model doesn’t offer top-quality appointments, though. This entry-level trim is ideal for those searching for a more cost-effective yet refined option, with features like MB-Tex upholstery, power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment, and a leather steering wheel to elevate the feeling of any journey.
Ride Quality
Beneath the polished hood of the 2025 GLC 300 lies a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to make for a one-of-a-kind ride. This powertrain is standard and is paired with a smooth-operating nine-speed automatic transmission. Not only can you expect unmatched efficiency from this hybrid setup, which gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, but this powertrain makes the GLC undoubtedly fun to drive. With 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque leading the way, drivers can expect an energy radiating from this model that can’t be replicated, and when it comes to towing power, this small-size traveler packs a punch. Able to tow up to 3,500 lbs, the GLC is stronger than many of its rivals, making it easy for adventurous drivers to head into the woods for a weekend unplugged with their small camper in tow.
One ride in the GLC, and you’ll be hooked, especially since this compact traveler is equipped with a four-wheel independent multi-link suspension, which can be found in many performance vehicles, amplifying its athleticism. Choosing to add 4MATIC all-wheel drive to the GLC will elevate its ability to take on tricky travel circumstances. Sending power to the wheels that need it the most, 4MATIC all-wheel drive gives a sense of peace of mind and confidence to any driver. For those who want to maximize the feeling of the ride at all times, DYNAMIC SELECT allows you to do just that with access to several drive modes catering to any type of ride. From ECO mode to heighten fuel efficiency to Sport mode for improved responsiveness, you’ll find a mode for every mood when you choose the GLC. In true Mercedes-Benz fashion, you can expect an overall controlled and refined ride with plenty of acceleration to keep things interesting during the daily commute.
Comfort & Cargo
You know that you have a nice selection of trims to choose from in the 2025 GLC lineup, and as expected, the higher you climb up the levels, the more luxurious you can expect your experience to be on board. You’ll find that the GLC is nicely laid out, with a cabin ambiance that’s both modern and timeless, marked by state-of-the-art technology spanning the majority of the cabin. You can expect standard heated seats to enhance the feeling you get inside. Top-tier trims will offer the most mesmerizing design elements to enhance tranquility on board, including fine wood and metal detailing, premium leather seating materials, and a refined ambiance to set you at ease while you travel.
Despite the fact that the GLC is a compact SUV, that doesn’t mean it’s not highly accommodating, with plenty of space for your guests and all the belongings that are joining them for the ride. With 40/20/40 split rear seats, the GLC transforms into a cargo-hauling machine, providing you with up to 56.3 cu.ft. of space for all of your must-have travel gear. You’ll also be able to enjoy a power liftgate, which allows you to access the cargo hold without having to use your hands. This is highly appreciated by those frequently loading up with a lot of stuff. If you’re searching for a small-size traveler that’s pleasantly accommodating, the GLC is a winner.
Connectivity & Safety
Innovation is prevalent in the GLC, allowing drivers to immerse themselves in the experience. An 11.9-inch portrait-style touchscreen comes standard across all trim levels, allowing you to access your coveted tech while traveling. In addition to this nicely sized touchscreen, you can also expect to take advantage of a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster to portray all of the pertinent details about your ride right behind the steering wheel. Plus, with biometrics included in the form of a fingerprint scanner, the GLC saves your preferences so that you don’t have to select all your settings every time someone else drives your vehicle.
The 2025 GLC also includes standard wireless smartphone compatibility and wireless charging capabilities, plus multiple USB ports sprinkled throughout the cabin. For those who want to enjoy cutting-edge navigation, this is an available feature and utilizes augmented reality to show a layout of the terrain ahead so that you can arrive at your destination with confidence. Choosing one of its higher-level trims will also unlock access to a premium Burmester 3D Surround Sound system to play all of your music, podcasts, and whatever else you’re listening to clearly.
Of course, every driver aims to remain as safe as possible, and the GLC helps out with this every step of the way. From standard Blind Spot Assist to a new Automatic Lane Change feature, the GLC is armed with some of the most sophisticated safety and assistance tech around. Opting for the available GUARD 360 feature keeps watch on the GLC while you’re not in it, sending an alert to your phone should a car accidentally make contact with it in a parking lot or attempt to steal it.
Optimizing the Drive in the GLC
It’s clear that the compact GLC offers all the features today’s travelers are looking for, all in one compact luxury SUV. There’s a nice assortment of trims to choose from to appeal to any driver and budget, as well as powertrain enhancements to heighten the feel of any journey. High-quality appointments surround you inside, while a confidently designed exterior captivates passersby, making this small SUV a top pick for many travelers looking for an all-around better driving experience. Top-of-the-line tech and safety features are just the icing on the cake, making the GLC perfectly equipped to handle the journey, no matter where the road takes you next.
