Mercedes-Benz GLC200 Coupe Review

If you think that the typical consumer hankers after SUVs, you'd only be half-right. That's because many in this segment are drawn to SUVs with sloping rooflines, better known as 'coupe-SUVs'.
 
Why else would Mercedes have a GLC and a GLC Coupe? Audi has a Q5 and a Q5 Sportback. Porsche makes a Cayenne and a Cayenne Coupe. BMW's X4 is the 'coupe' version of the X3.

Clearly, drivers want the practicality of an SUV but would also prefer it to be less boxy. Going by the number of GLC Coupes seen on our roads, it seems like Mercedes got the formula right.

Compared to the latest GLC (and other new Mercedes models), this GLC's styling is restrained

A pleasing visage

A badge cachet is one thing, but handsome styling makes it even easier to pull in buyers. The GLC Coupe looks good without trying too hard - despite the tristar motif on the grille, the stars are small and not immediately obvious.

There are enough bulges on the bonnet to hint at muscular performance, even if the 19-inch wheels don't fill the wheel arches. But at least most bystanders won't notice the 55-profile tyres, which are cushy rather than sporty.

The nicest view of the car is from the rear three-quarter angle, where the sloping roofline and fastback-style tailgate look most prominent. The GLC Coupe's tail lamps and rear light signature also differ from the SUV's - the overall look is sleeker and better-suited to the vehicle's silhouette.

Not the most driver-centric cockpit, but the angled display and supportive seats are nice touches

The sporty exterior is mirrored inside as well, with the cockpit giving the driver and front passenger a cocoon-like feel. Buyers seeking the latest tech, however, should remember that this second-generation GLC was launched in 2022. And while four years isn't eons ago, it is a long time in the automotive world.

Hence, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system might seem dated, since it's the second-generation system (MBUX is currently in its fourth generation). But to focus on that would be to miss the key point here, which is that for most people, having more features doesn't change how they drive, use, or interact with the car.

Large fonts and an intuitive interface are a boon to first-time owners

Both the 11.9-inch touchscreen display and 12.3-inch instrument panel still impress with their punchy colours and bold graphics. Sure, I had to wait a moment for Apple CarPlay to load when I plugged in my phone (wireless CarPlay and Android Auto are available, but I prefer using a cable), but that's not a deal-breaker.

Although the climate menu has been moved into the infotainment, key functions remain accessible via the buttons on the steering wheel. A haptic experience trumps a virtual one because it's tactile and more engaging compared to a touchscreen.

In keeping with the coupe vibe, the backseats are better-suited to two instead of three adults

Some compromises

Choosing the GLC Coupe over its SUV sibling means less passenger space. That sloping roofline looks cooler, but results in lower headroom, so you'd better not have taller-than-average family members. And the sizable floor protrusion makes accommodations annoying for the backseat's middle passenger.

Another bugbear is the poor placement of the USB-C charging ports - they're located below the rear air-con vents. Fortunately, the ports are illuminated, making them easier to spot at night.

The boot is fairly large, but its loading height puts petite users at a disadvantage

Then there's the boot volume. Although 545 litres isn't tiny, it's a lot less compared to the 620 litres offered by the GLC SUV. Also, the loading height is on the high side, so it won't be easy for petite users to load/unload heavy items or luggage.

Still, the GLC Coupe does claw back points by offering flexibility and convenience. Split-folding rear seat backs enhance versatility, and there are backrest release toggles in the boot. Too bad that these only release the seats - you'll have to put them back up manually.

The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot feels punchy when pushed and emits a nice soundtrack as well

Easy-going character

Powering the GLC200 is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot and a 48V mild hybrid system. Output figures are a healthy 201bhp and 320Nm of torque, along with a century sprint time of 7.9 seconds. It won't win races, but the GLC200 is still quicker and more powerful than most ICE and hybrid models.

It also delivers seamless acceleration and what sounds like the beginnings of a rorty soundtrack. Turn off the stop-start system (easily done with a press of the button) and you'll get nice and linear power delivery.

Dynamic Select lets you tweak how the car responds, and there's an off-road display for when you do venture into the forest

Plus, since the outputs won't melt the tarmac, you can stretch the engine and pile on the revs without immediately rocketing past the horizon. Besides, despite the firm ride, the GLC200 isn't the car you go hunting for corners with.

What you will appreciate, though, is the 4Matic (all-wheel drive) system that accords the car better grip, which is handy in wet conditions. The GLC also has some off-roading ability, even if they'll probably only be driven in the concrete jungle.

Considerations

If it's a petrol 'coupe-SUV' you're interested in, then the rivals to consider in Singapore would be the Audi Q5 Sportback and Range Rover Velar. The BMW X4 is no longer officially available here.

The biggest competitor, however, is in-house: It's the all-new GLC with EQ Technology, or GLC Electric. It looks bolder, has many new features, and is likely have a lot of standard kit when it arrives.

The thing is, not every buyer wants the latest model. There are many who prefer tech to be present but less in-your-face. And not everyone is ready to go electric, whether it's because of charging or because they prefer gradual rather than instantaneous acceleration.

The GLC Coupe is something to consider if you share the same sentiments. And if you feel that, then Mercedes has gotten this model's formula right.

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