What kind of vehicle is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class? What does it compare to?
The 2025 GLC is a compact luxury crossover SUV. Shop it against the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60.
Is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class a good SUV?
These are very appealing small crossover SUVs. They ride well, accelerate with authority, and offer lots of tech. Theyâre even fairly light on fuel, especially in the new GLC 350e configuration. Overall, this pricey (but worth it?) range rates a 7.0 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What’s new for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
A new plug-in hybrid model called GLC 350e offers up to 54 miles of estimated range on a full charge before the gas 4-cylinder fires up. Otherwise, the lineup now comes standard with heated seats, an airbag between the front seats, and an updated infotainment system with a 5G antenna. The steering wheel can now be wrapped in either real or synthetic leather, too.
Following a 2023 model-year revamp, the GLC remains a pretty small SUV. Its profile has more hints of wagon than competitors thanks in part to a long hood and a somewhat big greenhouse. Itâs a real stunner inside, too, with its tall touchscreen topped by aircraft-esque climate vents. Mercedes goes light on buttons but not on style or fine materials, especially as you work your way up to the top of the lineup.
Base GLC 300 models have a smooth 2.0-liter turbo-4 mild-hybrid that puts out 258 hp via a 9-speed automatic transmission. Theyâre more than adequate, and those who donât need all-wheel drive can save money (and gas) by opting for a base rear-drive version. The new GLC 350e takes that engine and hooks up a stronger electric motor for what Mercedes says is similar acceleration but also the ability to handle routine driving only on electric power.
Look for upward of 25 mpg combined in the most popular GLC 300 configuration regardless of drive wheels. The plug-in hybrid version intrigues with its 54-mile range on a full charge, plus it can be topped off quickly.
These versions of the GLC have a comfort-oriented suspension, though theyâre no slouches when hustled down a curvy road.
AMGs are a different thing entirely. The 43 version has a boosted 4-cylinder rated at 416 hp, but the real showpiece here is the complicated GLC 63 S E. Its special turbo-4 and 9-speed automatic transmission pair with a rear-mounted electric motor that has its own 2-speed transmission. Thereâs a lot going on, all of which helps it run to 60 mph in a little more than three seconds. Its air suspension and adaptive dampers combine with rear-wheel steering for spectacular handling and a ride far less punishing than BMWâs X3 M Competition.
Inside, the GLC has a spacious cabin with comfy front seats and a rear bench capable of holding two or even three adults. Itâs not top dog when it comes to cargo space, but its stylish dash has an upscale look and feel.
The GLC doesnât wow with its standard safety gear, though its optional driver-assistance tech is quite impressive. Adaptive cruise control is a relatively low-cost option compared to some rivals, while a high-end system that allows for hands-off driving in many situations is available in some configurations. This model has done well in crash tests, including a Top Safety Pick+ score from the IIHS.
How much does the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class cost?
The range begins at $50,400, which is no bargain. But even the base GLC 300 is pretty well-equipped with synthetic leather seats that are heated and power-adjustable up front, an 11.9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a phone key.
The lineup can nearly double in cost (and power) from there, so spend wisely.
Where is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class made?
In Germany.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC ClassStyling
The 2025 Mecedes-Benz GLC is a stylish standout.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class a good-looking car?
It wears cohesive, pretty lines inside and out, making it easily this segmentâs overall style leader. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC is an 8 out of 10 here; its rivals tend to be 7s or even 6s.
The GLC does nothing new in the way it samples the rest of the Benz lineup, and yet it manages to be one of the best the brand has to offer. And thatâs saying something. Youâll find some of the small GLAâs muscle in the GLCâs toned fenders, plus a few hints of the all-electric EQS in its lighting drama.
The GLC Coupe keeps the same basic look overall, but tapers the roofline more dramatically toward the rear bumper compared to the standard model. Weâre not convinced it looks better enough to merit serious consideration, though perhaps itâs more your thing.
AMG versions donât go off the deep end when it comes to playing a sporty role.
The cabin has an S-Class-level dash with a big touchscreen perched at an angle. Wide swathes of whatever trim finisher youâve selected from the options list stretch out from the sides. Five aviation-like air vents look prettier than anything weâve ever seen from Boeing or Airbus.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC ClassPerformance
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC makes good use of its electrification.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC is pleasant enough to drive in any form, but there are a few versions here that really intrigue. We rate the overall lineup at 7 out of 10 based on the GLC 300, which is the best-selling version, for their good acceleration and terrific ride. AMG models would score at least another point for being so fast; the 63 might even be a 9 since it handles so well.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class 4WD?
The GLC 300 is available with rear-wheel drive, but the lineup is four-wheel drive otherwise. These models arenât meant for anything other than light dirt roads or snow, though.
How fast is the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
The base GLC 300 is pretty quick. It starts with a 2.0-liter turbo-4, which puts out 258 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, though its mild-hybrid system consisting of a small electric motor between the engine and 9-speed automatic transmission can offer up 23 hp and a hefty 148 lb-ft of torque. At about 6.2 seconds to 60 mph, the GLC 300 is perfectly quick for most needs. The 4-cylinder works well with the 9-speed automatic transmission in most driving. Stomp on the skinny pedal and you may find some downshift hesitation unless youâre in Sport mode.
The standard version of the GLC 300 has a relatively soft ride thanks in part to its 18-inch wheels wearing tires with a decent amount of sidewall. Opt for bigger wheels and the base GLC can ride firmly, but not harshly. Its steering is quick and responsive, with just the amount of effort needed to make it somewhat entertaining.
This yearâs new GLC 350e bolts in a much more powerful electric motor that ups the ante to a combined 313 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes says it can run up to 87 mph in electric mode and that itâs been programmed to hit 60 mph in about the same amount of time as the GLC 300. Weâve yet to drive this version.
The AMG-massaged GLC 43 next up the ladder is also an enigma. Its 2.0-liter turbo-4 puts out 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, which Mercedes says slices about 1.5 seconds off of its run to 60 mph. It promises a firmer suspension and sharper steering, too. Weâve driven this setup in the similar C 43, which is very impressive. Expectations are high here since the GLC is basically a taller C-Class.
The AMG we have driven is the top dog, the GLC 63 S E. Itâs a technological tour de force, starting with its own 2.0-liter turbo-4 rated at 469 hpâbut thatâs only the first chapter of this story. A rear-mounted 201-hp electric motor with its own 2-speed transmission gets power from a 6.1-kwh battery. This complicated system draws heavily from Formula 1 tech to deliver 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. A 0-60-mph run takes just 3.4 seconds and, on a private road, itâll hit 171 mph before a governor kicks in.
The GLC 63 does the deed quietlyâalmost too silently. Flick the drive mode selector into Sport mode and the air suspension with adaptive dampers firms up a bit. Sport+ mode tightens up the steering even more, while Race mode turns the GLC into a snarling beast egging on its owner at every opportunity. Standard rear-wheel steering helps the GLC 63 feel planted at speed while giving it a nimble feel in town.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC ClassComfort & Quality
The 2025 Mercedes GLC begs to pamper.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers plenty of drama inside. Itâs also spacious for passengers and their cargo, nudging it to a 9 on the TCC scale for its comfort and quality.
The GLC rides on a 113.1-inch wheelbase, which is about average for the segment. It uses its interior space well, though, making the most of its 185.7-inch overall length. The 16-way power front seats up front come standard with heating and offer cooling. AMG versions have more adjustment and more bolstering, which may be a bit tight for broader occupants. The rear seat comes only as a three-piece bench, and it is reasonably comfortable and spacious. Big door openings make climbing aboard a cinch, too.
The 21.9 cubic-foot cargo area with the rear seatbacks upright isnât enormous, though it grows to a decent 52.6 cubic feet with them folded. Coupe versions lose a few cubic feet of space and canât handle big items nearly as well.
Even the cheapest GLC has good materials, but weâd spend up for dressier real leather and a more interesting trim finish than the standard âmetal weaveâ look. Real wood gives off a suitably classic vibe, though the matte black wood with thin aluminum lines works well, too.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC ClassSafety
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC has done well in what crash tests have been performed.
How safe is the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
Itâs an 8 out of 10 on the TCC scale, which is a very good figure. The 2025 GLC nets two points for its standard and available driver-assistance tech, plus one more for its IIHS rating.
The IIHS says that the GLC is a Top Safety Pick+. The NHTSA has yet to test it, however, so it could wind up scoring higher.
The GLC comes standard with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a host of airbags including a new one mounted between the front seats designed to reduce the risk of drivers and passengers bonking heads in a crash.
Adaptive cruise control is optional on all trims, while the swankiest of GLCs can be further upgraded with features that include automatic lane-change and a high degree of autonomy in traffic. That said, the adaptive cruise control system will automatically lower the GLCâs speed to whatâs posted, which can be a bit annoying.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC ClassFeatures
The GLC is expensive for a small SUV, though itâs well-equipped.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class costs at least $50,400. At that price, youâll get synthetic leather seats, an 11.9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 18-inch alloy wheels, and power-adjustable front seats with 16 ways of adjustment. We wind up at an 8 out of 10 thanks to the decent base spec, numerous options, and a good overall infotainment interface with available augmented navigation.
The 4-year/50,000-mile warranty earns no points on the TCC scale, though.
All-wheel drive costs $2,000 more, while GLC Coupe models are around $4,000 over their boxier equivalent where available.
Which Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class should I buy?
The step-up Exclusive trim costs $2,200, which buys ambient lighting, a surround-view camera system, Burmester 3D audio, and navigation, which seems like a pretty good value to us. Another $1,950 nets adaptive cruise control and other driver-assistance tech.
Alternatively, the new GLC 350e runs about $8,700 more than an all-wheel-drive GLC 300. Itâs outfitted similarly, but it may qualify for various incentives that help reduce that extra cost.
Figure about $68,000 for the GLC 43.
How much is a fully loaded Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
The top GLC 63 S runs $87,000 or so. Add such niceties as leather seats, blacked-out trim, even better Burmester audio, and a head-up display, and youâll be on the hook for nearly $100,000.
