Mercedes-Benz pulls the covers off new, sleeker-looking GLC Coupe

Merc is charging back into the coupe-SUV game with its recent unveiling of its new GLC Coupe - what it is continuing to call the "sporty sibling of the GLC SUV". 

While the general silhouette of the model has been retained, what is most striking about the car on first glance are its slimmer headlights and taillights, and reworked bumpers. The GLC Coupe is now also quite literally more grown up than before; it's 31mm longer and 5mm taller than its predecessor, although its width has been unchanged.

That hasn't meant, however, that the GLC Coupe is now a 'clumsier' car. Merc says that in the configuration most favourable for its aerodynamics, the model now boasts a minimal drag coefficienct of just 0.27 Cd - less than the 0.30 Cd figure previously. On the other hand, practicality has also increased, since the new GLC Coupe brings with it 45 litres of extra boot volume.

More crucially, all variants of the GLC Coupe now incorporate electrification to a certain degree on top of being powered by turbocharged four-cylinder petrol or diesel units. This will take shape either in the form of a 48V mild hybrid technology, or as plug-in hybrids with motors that provide all-electric range, courtesy of a 31.2kWh battery.

As standard, the model will be equipped with Merc's 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, and come with sports suspension for a dynamic drive - no matter the variant - although air suspension is available the further up one steps into the range. The former is based on a new four-link front suspension, and multi-link independent rear suspension.

Merc is also offering rear-axle steering as an option for drivers seeking extra agility and handling stability.

With regards to what to expect in terms of performance, the mild hybrid petrol range starts with the GLC 200 4MATIC, which has an output of 201bhp and 320Nm of torque. Those seeking more power can step up to the GLC 300 4MATIC, whose uprated engine will produce 255bhp and 400Nm of torque.

Besides a WLTP-rated all-electric range of up to 131km, the plug-in hybrid models also promise more electrifying performance. The GLC 300e 4MATIC has a combined output of 308bhp and 550Nm of torque, while the GLC 400e 4MATIC ups the antes even further with 375bhp and 650Nm of torque.

The most recent models we've seen unveiled from Merc of late have dazzled us with their expansive display of digital real estate, and this is also set to continue in the new GLC Coupe as it introduces the latest generation MBUX infotainment system with new functions. 

While drivers will be treated to a sumptuous 12.3-inch digital display, what will perhaps be even more eye-catching is the vertically laid out 11.9-inch central 'floating' screen for infotainment, which, like the dashboard, is slightly angled. The dual-layered steering wheel featured on Merc's latest cars will also greet drivers in the GLC Coupe. 

Merc says the new GLC Coupe will be available in western European markets from as early as July 2023, but it remains unclear when the model will eventually reach Singapore.