UPDATE, May 18, 2022: 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC teased ahead of June reveal
Mercedes-Benz is less than a month away from revealing its new GLC, locking in a June debut for the new model.
Having been teased in the lead-up to its official unveiling, Mercedes-Benz has already confirmed the entire GLC line-up will be electrified as well as benefitting from the addition of air suspension, adjustable damping and rear wheel steering.
Covers are set to come off the new-look SUV on June 2 at 1am Australian Eastern Standard Time. Keep your eyes peeled on Wheels as we provide updates on the new model.
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March 30, 2022: 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC winter testing in Sweden
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is currently undergoing cold-weather testing in the frozen proving grounds of Arjeplog, Sweden.
The next-gen SUV has been shown off gathering data in the tough conditions.
With ambient temperatures of minus 30 degrees celsius, roads covered in snow and ice as well as an unproven platform, Mercedes-Benz believes its Lapland testing program has allowed it to shake down the GLC in the coldest environment possible – discovering its potential weaknesses with handling, ergonomics, thermal management and interior comfort.
According to the manufacturer, a host of equipment upgrades will find its way onto the SUV, with air suspension, adjustable damping and rear wheel steering to feature on the GLC.
Inside the cabin, a 12.3-inch digital display will be used as the instrument cluster, while an 11.9-inch central touchscreen provides infotainment and climate controls, incorporating Merc's MBUX system.
Two internal combustion engine choices have been confirmed for the upcoming GLC, with 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel options both available – both fitted with 48-volt mild-hybrid motors.
A trio of plug-in hybrid powertrains will also bolster the line-up, all of which see their electric motors integrated into the nine-speed automatic transmission's casing, providing an additional 100kW and 440Nm.
It's expected the GLC will be revealed in greater detail towards the second half of the year, with specs for Australian-delivered models due to drop closer to launch.
March 10, 2022: 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC spied
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC has been caught on camera while cold-weather testing ahead of its unveiling later this year.
Mercedes-Benz was conducting its winter tests in Scandinavia when YouTube channel CarSpyMedia spied the GLC, complete with its camouflage wrap.
While details remain unconfirmed, it’s thought this prototype is using a plug-in hybrid powertrain – possibly the 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine and 25.4kWh battery pack found on the C350e, sending 230kW and 550Nm to all four wheels through a nine-speed automatic.
Up to 100 kilometres of all-electric driving range is available on the more aerodynamic C350e, so it’s likely buyers of the 2023 GLC 350e will sacrifice a little range for its more practical SUV body.
Expect the GLC to also borrow its style from the newest C-Class, but the overall shape doesn’t appear to differ too dramatically from the current model.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is expected to be unveiled in the coming months, with a launch likely before the end of the year.
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