The GLC-Class is expected to be offered with the base GLC 300 with standard RWD and the 4Matic AWD systems. One can also expect the Coupe and the AMG GLC 63 models to follow soon after. Mercedes is expected to offer many of the currently optional features as standard on the 2022 GLC 300 and also add a few more features to bring it up to the modern standards of the rivals.

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Since there aren’t different trims expected for the GLC-Class, the only possible choice apart from the options packages is the drivetrain. Since the hybrid setup is expected to return a pretty fuel efficiency, it is best to opt for the 4Matic AWD system and add versatility to the car.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class will retain the 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine like the new C-Class sedan, which will be paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Performance is further improved thanks to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system which provides 148 lb-ft of extra torque and 20 hp more power. The regular models will get rear-wheel-drive as standard, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is available as an option.

Similar to the current GLC 300e model, the new GLC AMG lineup will get smaller 4-cylinder engines combined with powerful electric motors for improved performance. A plug-in hybrid model is also expected, similar to the new C-Class, for more efficiency and all-electric driving. When comparing the price range of the SUVs in the competition, the GLC is the most expensive option available.

*2021 Data used for reference

Because of the minimal powertrain updates, the base model of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is just as fast as the outgoing model, with a 0 - 60 MPH time of 5.9 seconds, while the quarter-mile is expected to be around 14.5 seconds. It is still unclear how fast the new AMG models will be owing to their hybrid drivetrains. With no major updates to the powertrain, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class will sit comfortably in the middle in terms of performance, beating out both the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. The Audi Q5 is still the fastest, thanks to its higher power output and quick-shifting DCT transmission. 

How does the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Handle?

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class will be based on an upgraded version of the MRA platform, which also underpins the new C-Class sedan. The new model is also expected to ditch the air suspension for a more conventional setup to keep the prices down.

With the updated and stiffer chassis, we can expect better handling from the new GLC-Class, but the outgoing model was hardly sporty and engaging to begin with, especially compared to rivals from Porsche and BMW. All models are expected to get a multilink independent suspension setup with adaptive dampers for improved ride quality. As always, the high-performance AMG models will get a sport-tuned suspension setup for better handling.

The exact economy figures are yet to be released, but because of the improved drivetrain with mild hybrid technology, we can expect improved economy figures throughout the model range. The current model returns 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highways, which is average for its class. The new hybrid system will help extract a couple more MPGs and lower running costs. Combined with a 17.4-gallon fuel tank, the GLC-Class already offers more than 500 miles of highway range and is only set to improve for the 2022 model year.

*2021 Figures used for reference

In terms of efficiency, the outgoing model was already on par with competitors like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60, all of which return 25 MPG combined. The BMW X3 is slightly more efficient in the city and takes the first spot. With the launch of the new model, we can expect better efficiency than its competitors and grab the top spot in the segment.

Like the new C-Class sedan, the new GLC-Class is expected to receive a completely redesigned interior with better materials and a revised layout. The new 11.9-inch vertical central display will finally make its way into the GLC-Class along with the more advanced 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, both of which are larger and more functional than the current model.

Along with better materials, the new GLC-Class will also get a similar dashboard to the C-Class sedan with chunkier steering and unique AC vents. Almost all the functions are controlled through the central display, minimizing switchgear. The GLC-Class has always been a very comfortable SUV, and the new model further enhances interior space thanks to its larger dimensions. The seats are very comfortable with plenty of headroom and legroom on offer, more so than its sedan counterpart.

*2021 Model used for reference

Although all 4 SUVs offer similar interior space, the BMW X3 stands out with a lot more headroom at the front. We can expect the new GLC-Class to offer more interior space, which may turn the tides. But for now, it comfortably sits in second place. With a capacious trunk space of 28.7 cubic feet, the BMW X3 takes first place, while both the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offer around 25 cubic feet of capacity. In comparison, the Volvo XC60 falls short with just 17.8 cubic feet of storage. Some notable interior features include:

• New 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
• Comfortable seats with leather upholstery
• Tri-zone climate control
• Heated seats at the front and rear
• Head-up display

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class will feature the capable new MBUX user interface controlled through a huge 11.9-inch vertical display on the center stack. It works along with the digital instrument cluster and provides a lot of features. The system can be controlled using voice, touch, or through the updated steering wheel which features a lot more controls.

Features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and more are available as standard. The system also includes the new augmented reality navigation system along with complete voice control with the Alexa style “Hey Mercedes” system. The second-generation MBUX is much improved over the outgoing model and is slicker to use with updated graphics and menus and faster response times. Some notable infotainment features include:

• Second generation MBUX infotainment system
• 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen display
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay
• Updated navigation system with augmented reality
• ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control system
• Satellite radio, Bluetooth, and USB

Although the silhouette remains the same, the new model gets a complete redesign with new front and rear fascias. The standard LED headlights and taillights are expected to get an edgier and sporty design with a larger grille at the front, similar to the new C-Class sedan. As usual, the AMG models will get a lot of unique design elements to set them apart from the regular models.

The fastback coupe body style will still be available along with the regular model for a higher price. Overall, the new GLC-Class will get a sportier design like other new Mercedes models with limited chrome usage. The revised architecture will also make the new GLC-Class slightly bigger than the outgoing model.

*2021 Figures used for reference

In terms of dimensions, there is little to choose between all four SUVs. However, there is a noticeable difference in terms of ground clearance, where the Volvo XC60 offers 8.5-inches, making it a lot more capable than its rivals in less ideal situations. With the newly redesigned model, the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class will be just as big as its rivals, which translates to more interior space. Major exterior highlights include:

• Projector Beam LED Headlights
• LED taillights
• Power Liftgate
• Rain Detecting Wipers w/Heated Jets
• Chrome Side Windows Trim and Black Front Windshield Trim
• 19-inch Wheels

With the 2022 GLC-Class yet to be launched, we can only consider the safety standards of the 2021 model year GLC, and it’s expected to be only upwards and beyond for this compact luxury SUV. The 2021 GLC-Class scored a perfect overall rating of 5-stars from the NHTSA and also bagged the “Top Safety Pick” accolade from the IIHS. With the newer generation featuring a lot more standard and optional safety features, one can expect it to at least match this performance. Few salient safety features include:

• PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist
• Blind Spot Assist
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Active Brake Assist w/Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Lane Keep Assist

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class will be a huge update in terms of comfort and features compared to the outgoing model. The new hybrid powertrain is expected to offer a lot of performance without compromising efficiency. The updated infotainment system features advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a capable voice control system. With the new updates, the GLC-Class will be able to retain its position as the best-selling Mercedes-Benz model in the market. The new model should definitely be considered if you’re looking for a luxury crossover.