Mercedes GLC 220d: the diesel star still shines [Essai auto] – Automotive

Although hounded by the regulations, the diesel retains some credit, particularly with a professional clientele of “big” rollers. A direct competitor to the Audi Q5 TDI Quattro or the BMW X3 20d xDrive, the Mercedes GLC 220d is an illustration of this. Star of the premium market, this SUV has sold more than 2.6 million copies.

In 2023, it is available in 300e 313 hp and 400e 381 hp plug-in hybrid petrol versions and is offered in a 220d diesel variant with 48-volt light hybridization of 197 hp, the driving pleasure and performance of which are worth a detour. At the wheel of this model running on diesel and whose mass slightly exceeds two tons, we will probably be less captivated by the liveliness than by the responsiveness of its mechanics.

Occasionally supported by the 48 V 23 hp alternator-starter, the 4-cylinder diesel (440 Nm of torque) nevertheless proves to be voluntary and, thanks to a 9-speed automatic gearbox, very flexible in use. This diesel block has the good idea of ​​being discreet in the vast majority of cases. Despite its 4′ Matic transmission, which is otherwise very appreciable, it finally shines with its sobriety since, thanks to a test on a mixed course of 250 km, the consumption of the Mercedes will never have exceeded 6.6 liters per 100, guarantee with record autonomy.

Chic and sober

With its giant mounts, its air suspension with level control, its rear steering wheels, its standard all-wheel drive, the GLC 220d is a compendium of smoothness, comfort and on-board technology. His silhouette hardly changes. Larger by 6 cm, equipped with the AMG Line pack, the SUV retains this imposing design that the AMG Line pack, its running boards, roof bars, redesigned LED front projectors and other 20-inch rims make more flattering.

The refined interior of the cabin contrasts with that of the previous generation. The nature of the materials and the adjustments are in no way debatable. The dashboard takes up the codes and the large 11.9-inch screen of the C class, the use of which, it is true, requires dexterity and habituation, as for the sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. The traditional Mercedes voice assistant makes it possible to dispense with it for the most part.

Mercedes tradition, the technological endowment of the GLC is very extensive. Here it incorporates a transparent bonnet function that allows you to see under the front of the vehicle and will amuse Sunday hikers. The price of the 4Matic AMG Line diesel hybrid GLC starts at 65,500 euros and can exceed 75,000 euros, depending on options. Mercedes will offer a version of its GLC d with more than 330 hp. In Stuttgart, the diesel star still shines.