What is a GLC 300? The GLC 300 is a compact luxury crossover mild hybrid SUV built in Bremen, Germany and sold worldwide by Mercedes Benz. The 2023 GLC 300 SUV provides an incredible value at any trim level, with an impressive list of standard equipment. At a starting price of only $45,950 for the rear wheel drive (RWD) model and $50,250 for the all wheel drive (AWD) 4Matic edition, it’s priced less than the competition.
The 2023 Mercedes Benz GLC has more cabin space and improved noise reduction, thanks to a revamped body shell and insulated windows. Improved aerodynamics and ultra sophisticated suspension technology add to the vehicle’s comfort and drivability.
The new GLC 300 is one the best gasoline powered compact luxury mild hybrid SUV’s, with a smooth running new engine, increased interior room and a wide range of welcome features for safety, technology, and convenience.
The GLC 300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L liter inline 4 cylinder engine with a 48 volt battery mild hybrid system, making 255 HP horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9 speed automatic transmission with dynamic driving select. It has just enough power to send the GLC 300 from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 5.6 seconds.
And how does the 48 volt mild hybrid system work? At low speed, or when stationary, the engine can switch itself off and the 48 volt starter-generator seamlessly restarts the engine when needed. The separate 48 volt Li-ion battery is automatically charged by regenerative braking during coasting and braking so you do not have to plug it in at all.
That means a mild hybrid system can give your gasoline engine a boost at times when output would otherwise be relatively low. Mild hybrid systems typically don’t add much to peak horsepower numbers but contribute to a consistent and smooth application of power. Depending on your priorities, a mild hybrid vehicle would be a great choice, as they all offer better fuel economy and lower emissions. The fuel economy numbers for a 2023 GLC 300 mild hybrid are: 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined.
This week Mercedes Benz sent me a 2023 GLC 300 SUV to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this model is: $45,950. The options on the test SUV are: the metallic paint for $750, the 20″ AMG multi spoke alloy wheels with black accents for $850, the ventilated front seats for $450, the panorama roof for $1,500, SiriusXM satellite radio for $350, the advanced USB package for $300, the driver assistance package for $1,950, the night package for $200, the AMG line package for $3,450 and the pinnacle trim package for $4,450. The MSRP manufactures suggested retail price, including the $1,150 delivery charge, minus the $100 equipment credit, is: $61,250.
After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealers fees, the out the door and in your garage total purchase price came to: $68,907. At just under $69 Grand your driving an all new, mild hybrid, compact luxury, crossover SUV from Mercedes Benz, one of the oldest, and top tier rated, automobile manufacturers in the entire world. If you have a $70,000 purchase budget, why not buy the best for less?
Mercedes Benz equips their vehicles with the latest in comfort and convenience options and they start with: dual zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, keyless start, keyless go, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, power heated and cooled front seats with lumbar supports, power memory for the drivers seat, steering column and exterior mirrors, power folding side view mirrors, a power tilt and sliding sunroof, rain sensing windshield wipers, ambient lighting, split folding rear seats, a 11.9″ center stack touchscreen display, a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster and HUD, head up display; which is one of my most favorite tech features available on any vehicle.
Founded in 1883, Mercedes Benz is the oldest car brand still being produced today, and promises to deliver the best in everything they do. They strive to excel in every aspect of their vehicles; including innovation, performance, design, safety, technology, value and environmental protection. They work hard to beat that goal in every car they build.
Call, click or visit your local Mercedes Benz dealer for a test drive and a Bottom Line price review on a new 2023 GLC 300 SUV. And remember that the base price for a new GLC 300 starts at only $45,950. Mercedes Benz – The Best or Nothing.
Be smart, stay safe and just breathe. Remember, You Are What You Drive, and maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should Drive one, Buy one, Today. Have a great day, take care, drive safely, and enjoy the ride – Tony the Car Guy.
This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense editorial provided by Tony Leopardo. Tony the Car Guy is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net