Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic: interior, design and features review

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is the best selling model in Mercedes’ lineup in recent years and naturally, the introduction of a new generation is kind of a big deal. We had the opportunity to check out three different configurations of the newest GLC generation and will soon get behind the wheel of one for a proper review.

Mercedes first introduced the GLC back in 2015 and is now offering a brand new third generation. For now, the X540 as it is internally called, is only offered as a fully-electric vehicle, whereas the predecessor can still be purchased new with an internal combustion engine.

At present, the sole powertrain on offer is the Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic with EQ technology. It delivers an impressive 489 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, paired with all wheel drive and the option of air suspension. Not long ago, figures of this caliber were reserved exclusively for flagship models and supercars.

Exterior

From the front Mercedes-Benz is reviving the large grilles from the 60’s and 70’s, although they don’t cool a massive V8 engine behind. It’s a polarizing look but with such historical significance it’s likely going to age well as years go by.

The grille features an illuminated function that activates as the key approaches the vehicle, creating a distinctive welcome effect for the driver. Owners also have the option to decide whether the lighting remains on while the car is in motion.

Other than that the rest of the front follows Mercedes’ current styling with a three point star on each side for the daylights and massive air ducts in the lower parts of the bumper to distinguish the AMG line from the base models.

Mercedes GLC 400 front

The side profile is unapologetically Mercedes GLC with its large wheels, small overhangs and a raised window line that creates a sportier atmosphere from the inside.

All of the demo vehicles we had on display featured the same wheels but Mercedes offers ten different variants with sizes ranging from 19 to 21 inches. The smaller ones improve efficiency and comfort, while the larger sets help with the looks.

Flush door handles are facing major backlash from drivers around the world and they’re even getting banned in China but Mercedes still decided to have them on the new GLC. They lower the drag coefficient and clean up the look but are also less intuitive to use and susceptible to failure, especially in cases of emergency or extreme weather.

Optionally, you can equip side steps that stay fixed for easier entry and exit.

The roof line combines the look of the GLC and GLC Coupé of before. It is slightly sloped down to improve aerodynamics compared to the regular GLC but nowhere near as slopey as the GLC Coupé. This begs the question whether we’ll get two body styles again or this new GLC electric will kill two birds with one stone?

Mercedes GLC 400 side

From the back is where the new GLC faces the most backlash. Its rear lights are hidden in a panel that spans the entire width of the car and look as if the GLC has a monobrow. The fake exhaust pipes don’t help the situation and look ridiculous on a fully electric vehicle.

Taken individually, the rear design elements of the GLC demonstrate clear attention to detail and visual appeal. However, when viewed as a whole, they fall short of the cohesive elegance that defined the first two generations and made them so desirable.

Mercedes GLC 400 rear

Interior

Inside the cabin Mercedes follows a trend with all of its models where the dashboard is dominated by a monstrously large screen. It is a polarizing decision but one thing Mercedes listened about was the lack of physical buttons and now they’re making a comeback. On the steering wheel and below the screen you can notice buttons to control frequently used functions, which used to be incorporated into screen menus or haptic buttons in models like the EQS.

The overall material quality is impressive, with most surfaces finished in soft leather or high grade plastics. The build quality is also significantly improved and there are no creaks and rattles like we’ve sadly come to expect from Mercedes in the past decade.

The AMG steering wheel adopts what appears to be a three spoke layout, though a closer look reveals a six spoke structure integrated into the design. The result is a distinctive and premium appearance that still feels familiar enough not to deter traditional buyers.

The dashboard screen begins and ends with a climate vent. Behind the wheel is the driver’s display, in the middle is the main screen and in front of the passenger is the third screen. They all flow seamlessly into each other unlike previous models where one could spot three independent screens behind a single glass panel.

All displays perform impressively, offering quick response times, straightforward operation, and intuitive layouts. Notably, the passenger screen remains fully visible from the driver’s seat, unlike similar systems that restrict visibility to reduce distraction. As a result, video content can be viewed while driving, which raises potential safety concerns.

The passenger display doesn’t significantly enhance the experience or offer unique features but it does give the passenger the chance to scroll through the functions while the driver keeps the main unit to themselves.

Screens are a big theme in the Mercedes GLC 400

The center console is raised high, giving off a more luxurious sensation compared to the openness of rivals like the BMW iX3 or the Audi Q6 e-tron.

Wireless charging pads for two phones and the cup holders occupy most of the upper section and are left uncovered at all times. While this layout prioritizes convenience and everyday usability, the elevated design also frees up a secondary storage area beneath the console. This lower space is well suited for larger items such as handbags or backpacks and includes additional USB-C charging ports.

The center console is very practical

On the door sills we find the signature Mercedes seat controls that no longer work via haptics but are regular buttons that move in the direction you push them.

In the same vicinity are the window controls that are designed beautifully and feel great to the touch. Directly underneath are the covers for the Burmester speakers which finish off the overall design beautifully.

The door panels of the Mercedes GLC 400

The seats are both comfortable and supportive, holding occupants securely in place while offering a wide range of features. Buyers can opt for heating and ventilation, along with an extensive selection of massage functions. Not long ago, such amenities were exclusive to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but they have now made their way into the smaller and more accessible GLC.

The seats offer multiple functionalities

A panoramic glass roof comes as standard. While it does not open, it can switch between opaque and transparent at the touch of a button (on the screen). There is also an option to display a patterned effect for a more distinctive look. Subtle Mercedes star motifs remain visible across the surface at all times, adding a signature touch.

The roof is huge and made entirely of glass

The rear seats are not as special as the front ones but offer sufficient space for both leg and headroom. Our reviewer stands at 1.95 m (6’4”) and sits comfortably in the rear with some space left to spare in both directions. There are also optional heated rear seats and tinted windows.

Rear seat space is generous.

Storage and practicality

There is a lot of storage space available in the back of the new GLC electric. 20.1 ft³ is a lot of space and the squared off area makes it easy to utilize all of it. However, it is slightly less than the current ICE GLC. Furthermore, there isn’t much space below the trunk floor.

With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity expands to 61.4 ft³, providing ample space for larger items. Practicality is further enhanced by conveniently placed latches in the trunk that allow the seats to be folded instantly. This eliminates the need to walk around the vehicle to lower them from each side, making the process quicker and more user friendly.

Impressively, the frunk (front trunk) offers 4.52 ft³ of usable storage space that will further enhance practicality. It is enough to carry a suitcase or a large backpack. More impressively, it opens with the key from the outside by just pushing the Mercedes logo. There are no latches on the inside, which enhances usability on a daily basis unlike in so many other EVs.

Verdict

Mercedes is well aware of the fact that the GLC is its bestseller so the changes, albeit multiple, remain subtle compared to the current internal combustion model. We will have to drive it to conclude if the electrification process went as well as the rest of the changes. Until then, we can safely conclude that the redesign of the GLC is successful and lives up to the standards of the previous generations.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic X540 looks more modern from the outside, while the interior adopts changes that improve the experience. While looks are subjective, the objective improvements in the quality must be commended and we’re eagerly waiting to properly review a road-going version of the new GLC electric.