2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2022 Mercedes GLC offers a phenomenal combination of high-end luxury and sporty performance for discerning buyers in North America. Made by a legendary German brand, this compact crossover SUV offers dozens of sophisticated safety and security technologies for urban consumers. The most advanced active safety features on the menu come from the optional Driver Assistance Package. Consumers who value advanced connectivity will embrace the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system.

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC now comes standard with the Parking Damage Detector, which sends notifications to a synced smartphone through the Mercedes me connect app. Rear USB ports and a USB-C adapter cable are some other enhancements to the interior. Additionally, the optional Premium Package now adds the HANDS-FREE ACCESS power liftgate to this upscale MB crossover SUV.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class – The Pros

1. Reliable Powertrain

Producing up to 255 net hp when burning premium unleaded gasoline, a 2.0-L engine block propels the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC. Employing a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, this four-cylinder powerhouse twists out 273 lb-ft of peak torque. With adjustments from the signature CAMTRONIC Variable Valve Lift technology, the valvetrain operates precisely and efficiently on every cycle. Multi-spark ignition and direct injection also optimize combustion in the I-4 turbo powerplant. For its luxurious architecture, this compact MB crossover SUV boasts an impressive towing rating of up to 3,500 pounds when fitted with the optional Class II trailer hitch.

2. Dynamic Driving

Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in only 6.1 seconds, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC is one of the fastest compact crossover SUVs in North America. Such great acceleration is possible thanks to the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, which is linked to electronic selectors and paddle shifters. In addition to adjusting the shifting points, the DYNAMIC SELECT technology calibrates the steering and throttle. For instance, the driver-enabled Sport+ Mode increases the response from the transmission system and turbo engine. Tuned for daily driving, the Comfort Mode creates an ideal balance of power and fuel efficiency on the road.

3. Easy to Handle

An electromechanical power steering system ensures quick and consistent handling of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC. With additional support from the Direct Steer technology, the driver will enjoy the crisp and firm feel of the steering wheel. Equipped with the proprietary 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system, this lightweight MB crossover SUV maintains optimal traction on any paved road. If the wheels lose their grip on a slippery pavement, the Electronic Traction System will immediately kick in. Similarly, the Electronic Stability Program allows the vehicle to navigate corners with precision and poise. When it detects understeering, the ESP and Torque Vectoring Braking will apply the brakes accordingly.

4. Athletic Exterior Design

Having short overhangs, an elongated hood and a streamlined roofline, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC exhibits plenty of sporty flair. Chrome inserts are integrated into the front skid plates for good protection and stunning styling effects. Adopting a low-profile design for aerodynamic enhancement, the roof rails have an anodized finish in Silver Shadow. Black rubber studs protrude from the optional brushed-aluminum running boards, which ensure a proper entry into the cabin in poor weather. Hexagonal-shaped pins and diamond-block accents are beautifully incorporated into the optional chrome-embellished front grille on this upscale Mercedes-Benz crossover SUV.

5. Premium Exterior Styling Options

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC is sold on the American marketplace in more than 10 exterior colors, including the alluring Starling Blue and Cardinal Red. Consumers seeking a touch of urban sophistication will favor Obsidian Black, Cirrus Silver or Selenite Grey Mango. This lavish MB crossover SUV rolls on standard 18-inch wheels with a split-spoke configuration and grey-painted inlays. Y-spoke patterns are available for the 20-inch AMG wheels, which have a machined surface and ultra-thin composition. The urban-inspired Night Package adds Gloss Black accents to the car's front air dam, rear valance and front grille crossbars.

6. Lavish Interior Materials

Featuring vertical grain patterns and a low-sheen finish, the Natural Grain Walnut Wood trim is available for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC. Having an extra glossy surface, the Dark Brown Linden Wood adds some darker hues to the luxurious cabin. The Grey Oak Wood trim embodies contemporary craftsmanship inside the deluxe cockpit. Anyone who admires modern art will surely appreciate the Natural Grain Black Ash finish with aluminum accents. Additionally, brushed stainless-steel pedals add a final touch of sporty and luxurious appeal to the cabin.

7. Personalized Comfort

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC is furnished with power-adjustable, leather-appointed front seats that have electric heating elements and fan-controlled ventilation. Positioned below the aircraft-inspired circular air vents on the center console, the dual-zone automatic climate control system interface optimizes the temperatures throughout the entire vehicle. Three levels of warmth deliver extra comfort to the rear outboard seating positions inside this upscale MB crossover SUV. In addition to providing sweeping views of the sky, the optional Panorama Roof welcomes sunlight and fresh air into the cabin. Hidden beneath the Nappa upholstery, electric filaments quickly heat up the ergonomic steering wheel.

8. Superb Utility

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers the HANDS-FREE technology for the power liftgate. When this highly responsive liftgate opens, an authorized person has access to 19.4 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seats. Having a 40-20-40 design, the rear seatbacks could be folded to create up to 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Rated at 115 V and 150 W, a household-style AC outlet is accessible in the second row of this luxurious MB model. Providing enhanced illumination and unique mood effects, the 64-color ambient lighting system is another innovative feature on the menu.

9. Responsive Multimedia Technologies

The latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) technology delivers an elevated level of connectivity, guidance and entertainment inside the 2022 GLC. Encased in a slim metallic frame, the 10.25-inch touch screen stands at a perfect position on the dashboard. Responding to the slightest movement of the hand, the touch pad controller ensures distraction-free interaction with the MBUX. It's also possible to manage the multimedia console through the Touch Control on the steering wheel. By waving the hand in front of the infotainment console, the driver will instantly interact with the class-exclusive MBUX Interior Assistant.

10. Accident-Prevention Functions

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC includes the standard Active Brake Assist, which utilizes radar sensors to scan the projected path for any obstacles. Compensating for strong wind, the Crosswind Assist is another innovative technology that could prevent side crashes on a road with heavy traffic in all lanes. This luxury MB SUV has the default Blind Spot Assist with the Exit Warning Assist for sharper awareness of other cars in the driver's blind zones. Some other crash-mitigation technologies that are optional on this two-row MB crossover SUV include the Congestion Emergency Braking and Active Speed Limit Assist. Additionally, the Extended Restart and Active Emergency Assist provide superb utility in stop-and-go traffic on the highway or in the city.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class – The Cons

1. Low Fuel Economy

According to EPA metrics, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC gets only 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. A 0.35 coefficient of drag and 3,891-lb curb weight are some of the main culprits for such poor fuel economy on paved roads. The maximum ratings are only achieved when the Eco Start/Stop System and Eco Mode from the DYNAMIC SELECT are properly used by the driver. As expected, the Sport+ Mode and Sport Mode will significantly compromise the fuel efficiency of this luxurious MB crossover SUV. Drivers who frequently engage the throttle with maximum force will also induce turbo lag and reduced fuel economy on the road.

2. No Standard GPS Navigation

For its hefty manufacturer's suggested retail price, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC lacks a standard GPS navigation system. Consumers must purchase the optional Multimedia Package to access the MB Navigation, which comes with 3-D mapping and turn-by-turn instructions. Otherwise, the driver will have to rely on imported digital maps from Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. However, the sophisticated MBUX interface might confuse and distract some drivers who normally just look at the maps on the smartphones.

3. Not Suitable For Off-Roading

Despite having the acclaimed 4MATIC AWD system, the 2022 MB GLC isn't designed for tackling off-road trails. This advanced drivetrain performs well on wet pavement or other hard surfaces. However, the luxury vehicle will struggle to navigate sand, mud, grass and other relatively soft surfaces. A four-link front suspension system provides good absorption of shocks from pavement. Such a suspension might get heavily beaten up and damaged by harsh terrains. Additionally, the four-link suspension limits the overall articulation of the front wheels.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 BMW X3

Marketed as a sports activity vehicle by BMW, the 2022 X3 confidently challenges the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC in several important categories. Having a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch multimedia touch screen, the BMW SAV surely matches the MB model in connectivity and guidance. However, the X3 doesn't offer as many rich materials for the interior. This athletic BMW model also lacks an advanced ambient lighting system for enhanced tranquility and visual appeal inside the cabin.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lexus NX

Designed by a top Japanese auto company, the 2022 Lexus NX competes well against the German-made 2022 GLC. Using natural aspiration, the NX's entry-level 2.5-L engine peaks at only 203 hp and 184 lb-ft. Such ratings can't even be fairly compared to the GLC's standard twin-scroll turbo engine. Even when equipped with a 2.4-L turbo engine, the Lexus model accelerates slower than the Mercedes-Benz trim. Standard on the 2022 NX, the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite includes several advanced crash-prevention technologies. The Mercedes-Benz crossover SUV offers the Active Steering Assist, Congestion Emergency Braking, Active Distance Assist and other sophisticated safety technologies that aren't available on the Lexus rival.

Conclusion

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC meets high expectations for reliability, luxury and performance. Running on a twin-scroll turbo engine and the 4MATIC AWD system, this five-seat crossover SUV offers thrilling drives without sacrificing comfort. Natural wooden trimming, aluminum accents and leather upholstery define the elegant craftsmanship inside the lavish cabin of this compact MB model.