When it was launched back in 2016, the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was the baby of the brand's premium SUV family. And, it sure felt like it. It may have the necessary badging and styling and what not, but the car never really felt like a 'proper' Mercedes.

Fast forward a couple of years, and the GLC-Class has now been updated to breathe in new life to the model. Is it a properly premium Mercedes now?

So what's changed? 

Visually, the GLC hasn't undergone major changes. There are new chrome elements, standard LED High-Performance head lights, as well as a new radiator grille design. There's also a redesigned rear bumper with integrated tailpipe elements.

The changes don't fundamentally affect the way the car looks. It's not the prettiest SUV in the world, but it does come across as quite rugged and tough-looking.

Inside, the changes are much more significant. The major update is most evident from the driver's seat - the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, accessed via 12.3-inch all-digital instrument display and the 10.25-inch touchscreen central media display.

There's also a new multifunction steering wheel with the very useful Touch Control buttons, as well as a flat and wide multifunction touchpad that's much easier to use than the previous generation one. You can also operate the infotainment system using voice control by saying 'Hey Mercedes'.

All in all, these technology and equipment updates help to really elevate the sense of quality and luxury within the cabin. This feels like a properly premium Mercedes now. 

Does it drive any better? 

The GLC-Class now also feels thoroughly more refined to drive. In this GLC300 configuration, a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine sends 254bhp and 370Nm of torque to all four wheels. The engine is notably more refined than before - it's smoother to operate, and doesn't sound as strained when worked hard.

The suspension also feels more well-sorted and sophisticated than before. The car is more compliant over bumps, and doesn't bounce up and down as much as it used to. This creates a much more relaxing and measured ride.

Generally, driving the GLC-Class feels very relaxing and insulated from the world outside (something we couldn't say about the pre-facelift model). It's reasonably luxurious and has more than a whiff of E-Class about it.

Issues? The steering and pedal feel still feels artificial and rubbery all around. And, fuel economy is pretty dismal - we only managed about 8.2km/L, some way off the listed 12.5km/L figure.

So it's a proper Merc? 

The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has never been an easy car to love. It's neither got the all-terrain prowess of a 'proper' SUV, nor the delicacy and on-road manners of a 'proper' Mercedes.  

With this latest iteration, Mercedes has made the GLC-Class much more luxurious and comfortable for day-to-day use. It's still not much of a 'proper' SUV (which modern crossover actually is?), but it's certainly a properly premium and luxurious Mercedes now. That's a big win in our eyes.

See more of this facelifted SUV in our video review right here!



If it is luxury you're after in your compact SUV, there's also these premium rivals to choose from:

The Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI delivers high on ride quality and sharp looks

While the Jaguar F-PACE delivers on aggression with its exterior design while offering high interior space and a nifty infotainment system

There's also the Volvo XC60 B6, with a refined and smooth mild hybrid drivetrain and high driving serenity