The development process of the new generation of the Mercedes GLC continues. Mercedes has moved to southern Europe to carry out further tests with the long-awaited revamp of its successful SUV. A model that will bet without complexes on electrification, having three plug-in hybrid variants in its range of engines. We get closer to development with these new spy photos.
Mercedes has decided to accelerate the development process of the new generation of one of its most successful and popular SUVs. The Mercedes GLC will be completely renovated and it will undergo a very important generational change that will mark its commercial evolution in the coming years. A new generation that is in the testing phase and that is now being seen in southern Europe.
The engineers of the German firm have moved their headquarters to carry out new road tests in an ideal environment due to the orography and temperatures recorded in this part of the European territory. These new spy photos They allow us to get closer and take a look in great detail at a prototype that already carries many elements that will be transferred to the production model.
Spy photos of the new Mercedes GLC, an SUV that will bet on electrification
Despite all the camouflage that the exterior of the vehicle looks like, there are certain components that we must focus on. The front light clusters is one of them. The light signature that will be drawn by the LED lights intended for daytime driving is glimpsed. Also, the grill has been left uncovered. Considering the commercial success of the current model, any type of change that Mercedes introduces will generate a lot of interest.
The brand with the star has chosen to follow a continuity strategy in terms of exterior design. I mean, the new generation will still be recognizable as a GLC but will adapt to the new design language that Mercedes is applying. This will allow you to look more modern as well as dynamic. The headlights, bumpers and grill will take most of the modifications. Also, vehicle dimensions will vary.
The exterior aside, if we had the opportunity to get inside the new GLC we would quickly find ourselves engulfed in a digital environment as well as luxurious and comfortable. The reference in this regard will be the new generation of the Mercedes C-Class that has recently arrived at our dealerships. The dashboard will be redesigned and digitization will be the clear protagonist.
Beyond a digital instrument panel, something that is already common in most segments, the new GLC will equip a large touch screen that will occupy the area of the old center console. It will be the “nerve center” of the passenger compartment and a key element to manage all the functions and tools incorporated in the infotainment system. The list of digital online services, as well as that of driving assistance systems, will be expanded.
The plug-in hybrid variants of the new Mercedes GLC 2022
Regarding the mechanical section, the new generation of the GLC will ratify its commitment to electrification. And it is that electrification will make an appearance in each of the engines that will make up the offer. We list below the versions that will make up the range:
The engines of the new Mercedes GLC 2022
Gasoline and diesel engines will resort to 48 Volt Light Hybrid Technology (MHEV) which, in addition to improving their level of efficiency, will gain extra performance with an additional 20 hp. All engines will be associated with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic gearbox and a 4MATIC traction system.
The plug-in hybrid variants They will boast 100% electric autonomy, being able to reach 100 kilometers on a single charge thanks to the lithium-ion battery with a net capacity of 23.8 kWh. The electric motor equipped with a plug-in hybrid system reaches 95 kW (129 hp).
When will it hit the market? The debut in society of the new GLC is set for spring 2022. Shortly after, the order book will be opened in the main European markets.