The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 entered the luxury compact SUV market as a compelling option for drivers seeking a blend of sophistication, performance, and versatility. This model year brought a range of standard features and optional packages designed to cater to diverse preferences and needs. Let’s delve into what makes the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 a noteworthy vehicle in its class.
Standard Features of the 2017 GLC 300: A Foundation of Luxury and Convenience
The 2017 GLC 300 boasts a comprehensive list of standard features that highlight Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and driver convenience.
Exterior and Wheels
Rolling on 18-inch alloy wheels, the GLC 300 makes a strong first impression. Automatic headlights and LED daytime running lights ensure visibility and a modern aesthetic. Practicality is also key, with features like a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, and roof rails all included as standard. Keyless remote entry and ignition add a touch of modern convenience to the daily driving experience.
Advanced Safety Systems
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2017 GLC 300 reflects this with a suite of standard advanced safety features. Forward collision warning and mitigation are crucial for accident prevention, while the drowsy driver warning system helps maintain driver alertness. The crosswind assistance system enhances stability in challenging driving conditions. Adaptive suspension damping, although not driver-selectable, optimizes ride comfort automatically.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside the cabin, dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passengers. Adjustable drive settings allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s dynamics to their preferences. MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery provides a premium feel, complemented by a 14-way power driver seat with memory functions for optimal driving position. Rear passengers benefit from 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats, enhancing cargo flexibility. A universal garage door opener adds everyday convenience.
For technology and infotainment, the GLC 300 comes standard with a rearview camera, a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, Mbrace Connect for smartphone integration, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, and two USB ports.
Optional Packages: Tailoring Your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300
Beyond the generous standard features, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages to further personalize the 2017 GLC 300.
Premium Packages: Enhancing Convenience and Technology
The Premium 1 package added blind-spot monitoring for enhanced safety, advanced keyless entry for greater convenience, a household-style 115-volt power outlet, and satellite radio for expanded entertainment options.
Stepping up to the Premium 2 package included all features of Premium 1, plus a navigation system with voice control, an upgraded 8.4-inch display with real-time traffic and weather information, a touchpad controller for infotainment, a cargo net, and a collapsible crate in the cargo area.
The most comprehensive Premium 3 package incorporated all features of Premium 1 and 2, and further added adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams for superior nighttime visibility, adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving, active lane keeping assist, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, active blind-spot assistance, and an air freshener and purification system for enhanced cabin ambiance.
Sport and Night Packages: Styling and Performance Enhancements
For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package included unique body styling, larger 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for improved stopping power, and stitched MB-Tex dash trim. The Night package took the Sport package a step further by adding gloss black exterior accents and black wheels for a distinctive and aggressive look.
Active Parking Assist Package: Simplifying Parking Maneuvers
The Active Parking Assist package added front and rear parking sensors, an automated parking system to simplify parking in tight spots, hands-free liftgate activation for added convenience when loading cargo, and a surround-view camera for enhanced visibility during parking and low-speed maneuvers.
Standalone Options: Further Customization
Individual options allowed buyers to further tailor their 2017 GLC 300. These included larger 20-inch wheels, an adaptive air suspension for enhanced ride comfort and handling, a panoramic sunroof for an open and airy cabin, a roof spoiler, an illuminated Mercedes grille star, a head-up display, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, rear side-window sunshades, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a premium 14-speaker Burmester surround sound system, and internet streaming radio. Various Mercedes Mbrace options, such as emergency telematics and concierge services, were also available.
The AMG GLC 43: Performance-Oriented Variant
For those seeking enhanced performance, the AMG GLC 43 model offered a significant step up. It included 4Matic all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned air suspension, 20-inch wheels, and a more powerful V6 engine. It also came standard with the Premium 1 package and unique AMG-specific exterior and interior design elements.
Engine and Performance of the 2017 GLC 300
The 2017 GLC 300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, sending power to the rear wheels or all four wheels in the 4Matic model.
Performance is respectable for the class, with Edmunds testing showing a rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds.
Fuel economy is also a strong point, with EPA estimates of 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway) for the standard GLC 300 and 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway) for the 4Matic version. These figures are competitive within the luxury compact crossover segment.
Conclusion: The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 – A Well-Rounded Luxury SUV
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 delivers a compelling package of luxury, features, and performance. Whether you prioritized standard equipment, desired specific optional packages, or sought enhanced performance with the AMG GLC 43, the 2017 GLC lineup offered a range of choices to meet diverse needs and preferences in the luxury compact SUV market. Its blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics solidified its position as a strong contender in its segment.
