The facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLC has been revealed ahead of its official debut at the Geneva International Motor Show, with the Stuttgart-based firm handing the SUV subtle styling tweaks, fresh technology and an updated range of engines.

As we understand it, the revised model range is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in the final quarter of 2019.

Exterior design changes include new chrome elements that run from the front to the rear, along with redesigned LED headlamps and a new take on the front grille. Various fresh alloy wheel options have also been added, while the rear end benefits from a revised bumper, new exhaust tips and redesigned full-LED taillamps.

Inside, the updated GLC gains a larger touchscreen display (the free-standing unit is now offered in either 7-inch or 10,25-inch form) as well as the latest generation of the so-called MBUX (that’s Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system and an optional 12,3-inch instrument cluster. A new multifunction steering wheel has furthermore been added, while the firm says the GLC’s driving assistance systems have been “considerably expanded”.

And engines? Well, fresh four-cylinder petrol and diesel powerplants offering “more output and greater efficiency” will be available at launch, with more engines set to follow at a later stage.

Mercedes-Benz has dropped the old M274 engine in favour of the M264 mill, which makes 145 kW/280 N.m in the case of the GLC200 and 190 kW/370 N.m in the case of the GLC300. Interestingly, though, both of these models are also equipped with a 48 V system and belt-driven starter-generator, feeding an electric motor capable of briefly adding 10 kW and 150 N.m to the mix.

In terms of diesel options, the automaker has replaced the outgoing OM651 oil-burner with the OM654 unit. Here, the GLC200d makes 120 kW and 360 N.m, while the GLC220d offers 143 kW and 400 N.m. The GLC300d, meanwhile, is good for 180 kW and 500 N.m. All three turbodiesel options pair a nine-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive.

The GLC facelift furthermore brings the option of Mercedes-Benz’s Dynamic Body Control suspension system, an Off-Road Engineering Package and expanded functions for the Dynamic Select system.
Mercedes-Benz GLC

Original article from Car