The Next Generation of Best-Selling Crossover

Mercedes-Benz has announced that the next generation of its Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class mid-size crossover has completed its final winter testing near Arjeplog, Sweden just in time for the warming spring weather. The GLC is the brand’s best-selling model, full-stop, and we expect a full overhaul for the upcoming next-gen model, the details of which Mercedes hasn’t been shy about.

The third-gen GLC will start off with the brand’s M254 engine, according to Mercedes, which is a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 making 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The setup is electrified with a 48-volt starter-alternator unit on the transmission that contributes an output of 23 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque to the new base powertrain.

An exhaust treatment system is also packaged directly on the engine. We expect the updated model will keep its nine-speed automatic gearbox, and will likely be available again in rear- or all-wheel drive setups. The current model gets 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway.

Mercedes says the updated GLC will also get overhauled versions of some of its safety and driver-assistance systems. Active Distance Assist has updated its stationary vehicle response maneuvering speed from a max of 37 mph now up to 60 mph.

Active Steering Assist will get improved performance on bendy “country roads,” improved freeway lane-centering, and more lane detection features thanks to new 360-degree camera tech featured on the next-gen GLC. Mercedes also describes a “Digital Light” with “projection functions” and customizable “Coming/Leaving Home” animations that play out on the ground in front of the car, using the vehicle’s headlights.

Traffic Sign Assist will now recognize signage on overhead structures and in construction zones, including conditional signage like “slippery when wet,” with new warnings to alert the driver in various scenarios, including when they are about to run a stop sign or red light. Mercedes also says its parking systems will get improved surround sensors and better low speed maneuverability.

Mercedes has already confirmed some random interior details for the new GLC, too. It will get an all-new three-spoke steering wheel with redesigned control panels for navigation, phone, entertainment, cruise control and proximity control buttons. The main dashboard will get a 11.9-inch central LCD display, and a 12.3-inch monitor sits behind the steering wheel for the driver.

The third-gen GLC will get the updated MBUX user experience infotainment system, with updated “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant commands, and new augmented reality features that project addresses and details onto the infotainment screen’s exterior surround-view live video feed.

A special off-road menu with an optional “transparent hood” function that utilizes the 360-degree camera tech to show the ground beneath the front of the vehicle on the infotainment screen for better maneuverability.

So far, more than 2.5 million copies of the Mercedes-Benz GLC have been sold since the model line was introduced back in 2008, when it went by the GLK name. It quickly became a segment leader in the compact luxury crossover class, and is the best-selling model series from the Mercedes-Benz portfolio to date.

The latest model, which is expected to go on sale in 2023, is still based on the C-Class sedan, but will feature technical highlights from more premium models like the flagship S-Class, as well.