New York Auto Show: 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe: Comments

[William Maley]

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Mercedes-Benz is clearing out all of their debuts of this current auto show season. So far, Mercedes has announced a refresh of the CLA, and two new AMG models; E43 and GLC43. Now for the piece de resistance of their New York showings - the 2017 GLC Coupe.

 

The best way we can describe the looks of the GLC Coupe is to think of the GLE Coupe shrunken down. Compared to the standard GLC, the Coupe is about 2.9 inches longer and 1.5 inches shorter. Key design details include a steeply raked A-Pillar, sloping roof, diamond grille, and S-Class Coupe-inspired taillights.

 

There will be two models on offer, each with their own unique powertrain setup.

• GLC 300 4Matic: Turbocharged 2.0L Four-Cylinder, 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, Nine-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive
• Mercedes-AMG GLC43: Twin-Turbo 3.0L V6, 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, Nine-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive
  

Mercedes says the GLC Coupe will arrive at dealers in early 2017. Pricing will be announced at a later time.

 

Source: Mercedes-Benz

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Sports coupe meets "G"

 

March 22, 2016 - Stuttgart: The dynamic and expressive styling of the GLC Coupe concept was the center of attention at its world premiere at the Shanghai Auto Show in Spring 2015. It unites the typical stylistic elements of a coupe with the design language of current SUV models. Just one year later, this promise has become a reality: the new GLC Coupe translates the design idiom of the show car, with its distinctive structure and stretched greenhouse, virtually unchanged into series production. At the same time, the sports car among Mercedes-Benz's mid-size SUVs impresses with its brand-typical safety, modern assistance systems and an especially sporty-dynamic character. The standard sports suspension as well as more direct sports steering, DYNAMIC SELECT and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission combine effortlessly superior ride comfort with decidedly sporty agility. AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension with continuously adjustable damping is optionally available, providing for enhanced driving dynamics and comfort.

 

"The GLC Coupe reflects our iconic Mercedes-Benz coupe design while symbolizing the diversity of our brand – it is both 'hot and cool'," said Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. "With its design idiom of sensual purity, it perfectly embodies our styling philosophy while at the same time representing contemporary luxury."

 

The combination of a multifunctional SUV and an emotionally appealing coupe constitutes a skillful fusion of emotion and intelligence. With an exterior length of 186.2-inches, a height of 63-inches and a wheelbase of 113-inches, the GLC Coupe is both dynamic and compact in appearance. This makes the Coupe almost 3.2-inches longer and some 1.6-inches lower than the multi-talented GLC, with which it shares its basic architecture. The GLC Coupe owes its distinct character to a typically coupe-esque, single-louvered diamond radiator grille and a restyled, dropping roofline. The A-pillar is less steeply raked, while the continuation of the roof outline is lower, terminating in the elegantly flowing, muscular rear end typical of a coupe.

 

Perfect combination of design elements from two different worlds
The striking features of the front end are its dominant, steeply raked diamond radiator grille with single louver and integral star, short overhang and SUV-inspired override guard. The innovative headlamp concept, optionally in LED High Performance technology, sports the now characteristic Mercedes-Benz light signature. A striking injection of sports car genes is provided by the large lateral air inlets.

 

From the side, the 63-inch-high GLC Coupe, with its stretched roofline, resembles a sports coupe. The greenhouse blends in perfectly with the side of the vehicle to underline its coupe character. The interplay between high beltline and wide shoulders results in proportions that lend the GLC Coupe its dynamic looks. This interaction is given added emphasis by the drawn-in waist between the dropping line and the lower, rearwards contour.

 

A clear clue to the vehicle's distinctive SUV heritage is given by the optionally available side running boards. Flush with the outer edge of the body, wide wheels up to a size of 21 inches together with ample ground clearance underpin the GLC Coupe's sporty and dynamic ambitions on unpaved tracks and unsurfaced roads.

 

Rear end with athletic looks
The styling of the rear end gives added emphasis to the vehicle's coupe genes. With its pronounced shoulders, muscular bumper design with integral exhaust tips and under guard in the form of a diffuser, the wide rear end of the GLC Coupe underlines the vehicle's athletic looks while enabling the Coupe to hug the road. Narrow, split tail lights, a centrally positioned brand star and a sharp spoiler lip reflect a design that made its debut with the S-Class Coupe and which all Mercedes-Benz coupe models have since followed. Relocated to the lower section of the bumper, the number plate as well as rear window with its rounded upper area are among the further stylistic features. Like the headlamps, the night design of the LED tail lights sports the light signature of Mercedes-Benz.

 

Interior with coupe flair and high-grade ambience
Following the exterior design philosophy, the interior welcomes the occupants with coupe flair and a high-grade ambience. The design idiom combines sensual purity with dynamic sportiness while embodying a convincing interpretation of modern luxury. Distinctive stylistic elements of the GLC Coupe are the dashboard and the center console with its flowing lines, a large, one-piece console panel making an elegant sweep below the semi-integrated media display from the center air vents to the armrest. These clear lines give a feeling of spaciousness while conveying a puristic modernity.

 

The optionally available Interior Sport Package provides a clear commitment to even greater dynamism and sportiness. On the AMG GLC43, this package includes, among other features, sports seats with upholstery in MB-Tex man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber with the option of sports seats with Bi-Color leather upholstery. The GLC300 receives a flat-bottom steering wheel, rubber studded pedals and AMG floormats as part of the Interior Sport Package.

 

Cranberry Red MB-Tex upholstery is also available on the GLC300.

 

Sport program: DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL or AIR BODY CONTROL
The GLC300 4MATIC Coupe comes standard with an off-road suspension including DYNAMIC SELECT with the five transmission modes: ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL.

 

Uniquely in this market segment, the suspension can be equipped with fully supporting multi-chamber springing and electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping. The AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension combines excellent driving stability and optimal comfort with sporty agility. Specific characteristics are preselected depending on the DYNAMIC SELECT settings. In Sport+ mode, the occupants feel as if they are sitting in a sports car with a high level of lateral dynamics due to the even stiffer suspension, which is lowered by 0.6-inches.
COMFORT mode ensures an especially comfortable ride with soft suspension. To guarantee maximum possible driving safety also in this mode, the spring/damper forces are instantaneously adjusted, for example in case of a sudden evasive maneuver. Further benefits of the system include reduced roll when cornering, automatic load sensing and lowering of the load compartment sill by 1.6-inches for more convenient loading and unloading.

 

Another key parameter for the sporty characteristics of the GLC Coupe compared with the classic GLC SUV is the retuned steering system, which, with 15.1:1 (GLC: 16.1:1), offers a more direct steering ratio together with even sportier characteristics of the power assistance in the SPORT and SPORT+ modes.

 

Key parameters for high energy efficiency
The design has also bestowed superlative aerodynamics on the new GLC Coupe. Apart from the vehicle's streamlined basic form, this exceptional aerodynamic performance also results from a host of detail solutions, such as sealing of the radiator and headlamp surrounds and optimized underbody paneling.

 

The GLC Coupe's all-new body, which features an intelligent mix of materials, comprising aluminum and high- to ultra-high-strength steels, saves weight across the model lineup. Aluminum components additionally reduce the weight of the suspension, which also benefits ride comfort due to the attendant reduction in unsprung masses. The optional AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension features spring elements in lightweight yet robust glass-fiber-reinforced plastic, which reduce the system weight in comparison to conventional air suspensions.
The use of the new compact transfer case as an add-on module and the 9G- TRONIC with its magnesium transmission housing results in a 26 lb. weight reduction in comparison to the previous versions installed in other models.

 

Powerful and efficient: GLC300 and top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG GLC43
The four-cylinder GLC300 4MATIC coupe is rated at 241 hp. For dynamically- minded coupe fans, the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe is the right choice: this powerful top-of-the-line model comes with perfect on-road performance, dynamic styling and an attractive equipment package. The 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine puts out 362 hp, accelerating the coupe to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. The GLC300 comes standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and all variants of the GLC Coupe, including the AMG GLC43, are equipped with 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.

 

Equipment configuration: comprehensive and individual
The new GLC Coupe impresses even in its basic equipment configuration, which includes light-alloy wheels of 19-inch diameter, the Chrome package with visible exhaust tips, EASY-PACK tailgate, Audio 20 CD multimedia system, reversing camera, KEYLESS-START function and upholstery in MB-Tex man-made leather.

 

Also included as standard are assistance systems such as Active Brake Assist (previously known as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS), Crosswind Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and ESP® among others. Comfort and safety can be further enhanced by additional driver assistance systems.

 

Mercedes-Benz also offers a wide selection of optional packages for its new SUV coupe. Customers can choose between Interior and Exterior Sport Package and Night package. A highlight in terms of both looks and driving dynamics is provided by optional AMG light-alloy wheels of 19-inch or 20-inch diameter with mixed tires on the GLC43. The attractive light-alloy wheels are available in numerous design variants. An optional sport exhaust system makes for a more dynamic engine sound.

 

Protection in an emergency
In keeping with the Mercedes-Benz tradition, the body forms the foundation for exemplary crash safety. A high-strength safety passenger compartment forms the core of this concept. It is surrounded by specially designed and crash-tested deformation zones, which ensure the best possible occupant safety.

 

In addition to 3-point safety belts with pyrotechnical and reversible belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and those in the outer rear seats, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. These include combined thorax/pelvis sidebags for driver and front passenger and an optimized windowbag extending over both seat rows, optional sidebags for the outer rear seats and a driver kneebag.

 

The GLC300 4MATIC Coupe and AMG GLC43 Coupe will go on sale by early 2017.

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[ccap41]

Ugliest line of vehicles ever. GLC Coupe, GLE Coupe, X4 Coupe, X6 Coupe. It actually kind of make me mad that they make such hideous vehicles when both manufacturers make gnarly M and AMG cars. 

[G. David Felt]

Hello McFly, I am a bit confused on this one. What is shorter and what is longer? Is the car physically longer but height is shorter? Or is the car physically shorter, height is longer? I am so confused:

 

"Compared to the standard GLC, the Coupe is about 2.9 inches longer and 1.5 inches shorter."

 

 

GLC =   

[smk4565]

The roof is lower, the body is longer.  I actually thinks this looks better than the GLE coupe, I think the styling works better here than on the bigger, and otherwise older design of the GLE.  I am not a fan of crossover coupes, but people are so thirsty for crossovers they'll buy it.

[balthazar]

Ugh is it a gruesome beastie.
And why MB insists on plastering the same nose on every car they build is beyond me. 

 

BTW, I've completely given up on trying to sort thru the alphabet soup of MB's 342 different model names.

[regfootball]

hate the way the German marques are trying to fill every stupid niche.

[ccap41]

hate the way the German marques are trying to fill every stupid niche.

Eventually it will bite them in the ass. The strong sales we are seeing cannot be sustained if vehicles are as good and high quality as they say they are. Once sales droop they have all of these variants cost sitting out there. I think they've gone to the opposite end Cadillac is currently at where they have too large of a portfolio. I mean it is great to offer a vehicle for everybody but when people stop buying, because recessions are an inevitable thing, I think it will hurt them even more. Just my opinion on the matter though.

[regfootball]

Cadillac has some holes to fill and add a few vehicles, but the number of 'models' BMW and Mercedes have is ridiculous.

[smk4565]

The cost probably isn't that high to do what Mercedes is doing. The C, GLC, GLC coupe, E-class and soon CLS all ride on the same MRA platform, the 2 liter 4 and 3.0 V6 and 4.0 V8 are used in all (or will be soon). They all have the same transmission.

So the cost is just in body styles, it no different than ATS, CTS, Camaro. If Mercedes is going to make a c-class coupe and convertible, making a coupe body style on a crossover probably makes sense.

[surreal1272]

The cost probably isn't that high to do what Mercedes is doing. The C, GLC, GLC coupe, E-class and soon CLS all ride on the same MRA platform, the 2 liter 4 and 3.0 V6 and 4.0 V8 are used in all (or will be soon). They all have the same transmission.

So the cost is just in body styles, it no different than ATS, CTS, Camaro. If Mercedes is going to make a c-class coupe and convertible, making a coupe body style on a crossover probably makes sense.

So they are just doing putting out the same cars with different skins. Sounds about right.

[G. David Felt]

 

The cost probably isn't that high to do what Mercedes is doing. The C, GLC, GLC coupe, E-class and soon CLS all ride on the same MRA platform, the 2 liter 4 and 3.0 V6 and 4.0 V8 are used in all (or will be soon). They all have the same transmission.

So the cost is just in body styles, it no different than ATS, CTS, Camaro. If Mercedes is going to make a c-class coupe and convertible, making a coupe body style on a crossover probably makes sense.

So they are just doing putting out the same cars with different skins. Sounds about right.

 

This is what will lead to both MB and BMW ending up loosing their luxury status as they become a true Chevy, Ford or Dodge to the US market.

 

They are loosing that Luxury status as now they are just an anyone auto.

 

Why bother buying an auto that anyone can have? Poor fit n finish and reliability to boot.

[smk4565]

 

 

The cost probably isn't that high to do what Mercedes is doing. The C, GLC, GLC coupe, E-class and soon CLS all ride on the same MRA platform, the 2 liter 4 and 3.0 V6 and 4.0 V8 are used in all (or will be soon). They all have the same transmission.

So the cost is just in body styles, it no different than ATS, CTS, Camaro. If Mercedes is going to make a c-class coupe and convertible, making a coupe body style on a crossover probably makes sense.

So they are just doing putting out the same cars with different skins. Sounds about right.

 

This is what will lead to both MB and BMW ending up loosing their luxury status as they become a true Chevy, Ford or Dodge to the US market.

 

They are loosing that Luxury status as now they are just an anyone auto.

 

Why bother buying an auto that anyone can have? Poor fit n finish and reliability to boot.

 

And Cadillac can't beat them why?  

 

You do realize CLS and GLE coupe add about $10,000 to the price to what an E-class or GLE.  They are putting out higher end models, with greater status (even if just perceived) with higher profit margins.

[balthazar]

And Cadillac can't beat them why?  

Pssst!! Cadillac is NOT, repeat: NOT racing mercedes to sell millions upon millions of vehicles in every price class.

[smk4565]

 

And Cadillac can't beat them why?  

Pssst!! Cadillac is NOT, repeat: NOT racing mercedes to sell millions upon millions of vehicles in every price class.

 

How about just 1 car over $100,000?

[ccap41]

The cost probably isn't that high to do what Mercedes is doing. The C, GLC, GLC coupe, E-class and soon CLS all ride on the same MRA platform, the 2 liter 4 and 3.0 V6 and 4.0 V8 are used in all (or will be soon). They all have the same transmission.

So the cost is just in body styles, it no different than ATS, CTS, Camaro. If Mercedes is going to make a c-class coupe and convertible, making a coupe body style on a crossover probably makes sense.

It's very much different when it's c sedan, c coupe, glc, glc coupe, e, e coupe, gle, gle coupe compared to the ATS sedan, coupe, cts sedan and coupe and camaro. It could be said that more vehicles off of one platform is better but when it's such low numbers is it really that great when the massive number we are seeing now decline? The hideous glc coupe and gle coupe won't sell forever. They aren't practical so when the economy turns down, like it inevitably will, they will be the first to stop buying. Many many man hours go into making a new body like the hideous gle and glc and making them compliant to safety regulations so it isn't like they can just use a computer and make a new vehicle off an existing platform and it's good to go. They have to retool plants and reengineer the entire body.

As much as I like Mercedes I hope these ugly SUV coupes kick them in the ass because they're stupid and make as much sense as a coupe yet they look like dog$h!.

[ccap41]

And Cadillac can't beat them why?

Pssst!! Cadillac is NOT, repeat: NOT racing mercedes to sell millions upon millions of vehicles in every price class.

How about just 1 car over $100,000?

CTS-V..? Escalade..? You can be so douchy when it comes to Mercedes.

[surreal1272]

 

 

And Cadillac can't beat them why?  

Pssst!! Cadillac is NOT, repeat: NOT racing mercedes to sell millions upon millions of vehicles in every price class.

 

How about just 1 car over $100,000?

 

Pick and argument and stick with it. You first claim it's about sales and now it's about "exclusive models". Let's go back to "sales" shall we? Cadillac will not pass Mercedes in sales nor to do they have to. Not every luxury make needs to pad their sales with boxy vans, B cars, and platform sharing pick ups (hello Nissan).

Edited March 26, 2016 by surreal1272

[surreal1272]

 

 

And Cadillac can't beat them why?  

Pssst!! Cadillac is NOT, repeat: NOT racing mercedes to sell millions upon millions of vehicles in every price class.

 

How about just 1 car over $100,000?

 

Just stop.

 

 

[surreal1272]

[smk4565]

I was more thinking of base price over $100,000.  Cadillac isn't going for volume, but ATS, CTS, XTS, XT5/SRX all start under $46,000.  And we know there is at least one, maybe 2 crossovers below XT5, and a sedan below ATS.    Cadillac is going right into CLA/GLA and X1 territory just like Infiniti and Audi.  They are all doing it.  If Cadillac didn't want volume they wouldn't be planning an XT1 or CT1.