Skip to main content

Mercedes-Benz redesigned the GLC for the 2023 model year. Now in its second generation, the Mercedes SUV offers plenty of comfort and refinement in a small SUV package. We had a chance to test out the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 for a week and found a lot to like about it. However, there were a couple of cons as well. Check them out.

Pro: The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV is very comfortable for road trips

A rear corner view of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV in black
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

During our time with the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, we took it on a short road trip through the Colorado mountains. We shouldn’t have been surprised, but the GLC’s overall comfort was a bit of a shock. Its rich leather seats were supportive, and the Burmester sound system entertained us.

There’s not much road or wind noise to report, as the cabin felt serene and quiet at highway speeds. The GLC also had plenty of power from its turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, which made going uphill easy despite being at 10,000 feet in altitude.

Con: It’s pricey for a five-passenger SUV

Compared to competitors in the same category, the Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV is priced a little high. The GLC competes directly with the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and the Land Rover Evoque, all of which have a lower starting price than the GLC. Our tester for the week was priced at $49,100, but with all of the additional packages and options, the total price was $66,240.

Pro: The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is a surprisingly fuel-efficient SUV

The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

For some reason, we never would have thought the Mercedes GLC 300 would be a fuel-efficient SUV, maybe because it’s a luxury car. But to our surprise, we averaged 29.5 mpg during the week we drove it, which is exceptional since it included a variety of elevations. For reference, the EPA estimates the GLC can get up to 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Con: It lacks ventilated seats, and the infotainment system can be hard to use

A front view of the front seats in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Our Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 tester came with nearly every option you could want including heated seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a head-up display. However, it did not come with ventilated seats despite being fully loaded. Bummer.

Additionally, we found that the infotainment system had a bit of a learning curve during our initial time with it. However, we got used to all of its functions as the week wore on.

Pro: It has plenty of tech features and LED lights

The fancy LED lights at nighttime on the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Speaking of the GLC 300’s tech features, we were happy with everything else it had to offer. We like the kinetic seats that move to keep the driver awake. We also liked all of the safety features, which included a surround-view monitor and parking assist.

The LED ambient lighting was a lot of fun, too. There are different presets for the lights, which look really cool at nighttime. Our favorite is “Miami Sunset.”

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV offers a well-rounded, luxurious experience

Ultimately, while there are a couple of cons to look out for when shopping for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, there are many more pros. Despite the few drawbacks, the GLC proved to be a well-rounded, luxurious two-row SUV.

Related

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Is the Best Compact Luxury SUV of 2021