The 2017 Mercedes-benz Glc 300 stands out as a compelling option in the competitive luxury compact SUV segment, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. This article delves into the standard features, available packages, and technical specifications that define the GLC 300, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and enthusiasts.
Standard Features of the 2017 GLC 300
The GLC 300 comes generously equipped right from the base model, ensuring a premium driving experience. Exterior highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and distinctive LED daytime running lights that enhance visibility and style. Practicality is addressed with features like a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, and roof rails, adding to the vehicle’s versatility. The adaptive suspension damping system, while not driver-selectable, automatically adjusts to road conditions for a smoother ride. Keyless remote entry and ignition provide added convenience for daily use. Safety is paramount, with standard advanced features such as forward collision warning and mitigation, a drowsy driver warning system to promote attentive driving, and crosswind assistance to maintain stability in challenging conditions.
Inside the cabin, the GLC 300 prioritizes comfort and convenience. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows for personalized temperature settings for the driver and passenger. Adjustable drive settings enable customization of the driving dynamics to suit different preferences. The synthetic leather upholstery (MB-Tex) offers a refined feel, while the 14-way power driver seat with memory functions ensures optimal comfort for the driver. The 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats enhance cargo flexibility, and a universal garage door opener adds a touch of home automation integration. A rearview camera is standard, aiding in parking and maneuvering. For infotainment, a 7-inch display is included, featuring 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 to keep occupants connected and entertained.
Optional Packages and Upgrades
Mercedes-Benz offers a range of packages and standalone options to personalize the GLC 300 and elevate its features. The Premium 1 package enhances convenience with blind-spot monitoring for safer lane changes, advanced keyless entry, a household-style 115-volt power outlet for powering devices, and satellite radio for expanded entertainment options. Stepping up to the Premium 2 package includes all features of Premium 1, plus a navigation system with voice control and a larger 8.4-inch display, incorporating real-time traffic and weather updates to streamline journeys. A touchpad controller is also added for intuitive infotainment interaction, along with practical cargo solutions like a cargo net and a collapsible crate. The most comprehensive Premium 3 package builds upon Premium 2 with advanced driver-assistance systems and luxury enhancements. This package includes adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams for optimized nighttime visibility, adaptive cruise control to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, active lane keeping assist to help prevent unintentional lane departures, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection for enhanced safety, active blind-spot assistance, and an air freshener and purification system for a more pleasant cabin environment.
For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package delivers with sporty body styling, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and 19-inch wheels. Inside, stitched MB-Tex dash trim adds a touch of sporty sophistication. The Night package further amplifies the sporty appearance, incorporating the Sport package equipment but with gloss black exterior accents and black wheels for a more aggressive look. Parking becomes easier with the Active Parking Assist package, which includes front and rear parking sensors, an automated parking system to assist with both parallel and perpendicular parking, hands-free liftgate activation for convenient access to the cargo area, and a surround-view camera for a complete picture of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Beyond packages, individual options allow for further customization. These include larger 20-inch wheels for a bolder stance, an adaptive air suspension for an even smoother ride, a panoramic sunroof to bring in natural light, a roof spoiler for added style, and an illuminated Mercedes grille star for a distinctive front fascia. Technology upgrades include a head-up display that projects driving information onto the windshield, a Wi-Fi hot spot to keep occupants connected on the go, and internet streaming radio for expanded audio entertainment. Luxury enhancements comprise leather upholstery for a more premium interior feel, heated and ventilated front seats for optimal comfort in any climate, heated rear seats for passenger comfort, a heated steering wheel for cold weather driving, and rear side-window sunshades for privacy and sun protection. Audiophiles can opt for a 14-speaker premium Burmester surround sound system for an immersive audio experience. Various Mercedes Mbrace options are also available, offering emergency telematics and concierge services for added peace of mind and convenience. For enhanced performance, the AMG GLC 43 model offers 4Matic all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned air suspension, 20-inch wheels, and a more powerful V6 engine, along with the Premium 1 package as standard and unique styling elements.
Performance and Engine Specs
Under the hood, the GLC 300 is powered by a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth and efficient nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard configuration is rear-wheel drive (RWD), but Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) system is available for enhanced traction and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions. In independent testing, a rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 demonstrated a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.2 seconds, which is considered quick for a base-engine luxury compact SUV, providing ample performance for daily driving and highway cruising.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is also a strong point for the 2017 GLC 300. The EPA estimates fuel economy for the rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 at 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway). The 4Matic all-wheel-drive version achieves a comparable 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). These figures are notably competitive within the luxury compact crossover segment, balancing performance with reasonable fuel consumption.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 presents a well-rounded package with a generous array of standard features, a wide selection of optional packages and standalone upgrades, and a fuel-efficient yet capable engine. It is ideally suited for buyers seeking a luxurious and practical compact SUV that delivers both comfort and performance in a stylish design.
