The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe (C253, facelift model produced from May 2019 to July 2023) represents a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality within the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the GLC Coupe lineup, it distinguished itself through the incorporation of mild hybrid technology (EQ Boost) and a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base models, while still benefiting from the fuel efficiency advantages of a partially electrified powertrain. The C253 facelift brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the original C253 platform, solidifying the GLC Coupe’s position as a competitor to vehicles like the BMW X4 and Audi Q5 Sportback.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC Coupe (C253, facelift 2019) |
| Type | GLC 300 (258 Hp) EQ Boost 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 184-217 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.9-9.5 l/100 km (26.4 – 24.8 US mpg, 31.7 – 29.7 UK mpg, 11.2 – 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.0-6.4 l/100 km (39.2 – 36.8 US mpg, 47.1 – 44.1 UK mpg, 16.7 – 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.1-7.5 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.4 US mpg, 39.8 – 37.7 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 161-170 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.4 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Electric motor power | 14 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Longitudinal |
| Power | 258 Hp |
| Power per litre | 129.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1800-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 264.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2435 kg (5368.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 685 kg (1510.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1400 l (49.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Length | 4731 mm (186.26 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1028 mm (40.47 in.) |
| Approach angle | 20.2° |
| Departure angle | 14.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 11.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive all four wheels, mixed mode operation. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the GLC 300 Coupe lies the M 264.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s output of 258 horsepower and 272.9 lb.-ft. of torque is available from 1800-4000 rpm, providing a broad powerband suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The “EQ Boost” system adds a 48-volt mild hybrid component, featuring a 14 hp electric motor integrated into the drivetrain. This system allows for functions like extended coasting, smoother start/stop operation, and a small power boost during acceleration. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, with nine forward gears, is standard, offering quick and smooth shifts. This transmission is tuned to work seamlessly with the EQ Boost system, optimizing fuel economy and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 300 Coupe with the 9G-TRONIC transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the combination of the turbocharged engine and the nine-speed gearbox provides ample power for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6 seconds. The EQ Boost system contributes to a subtle but noticeable improvement in responsiveness, particularly during initial acceleration. Compared to lower-powered GLC variants, the 300 Coupe feels significantly more capable, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The automatic transmission is generally well-behaved, although some drivers may prefer the more direct control offered by a manual transmission (not available on this variant). The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 300 Coupe typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a dual 12.3-inch digital display for instrumentation and infotainment, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium Burmester sound system, and advanced parking assist features. Trim levels often varied based on package selections, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle with a range of luxury and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 300 Coupe utilizes a four-wheel independent suspension system, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but still offers decent handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The electronic stability program (ESP) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard safety features. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 300 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. The EQ Boost system was seen as a positive addition, contributing to improved fuel economy and responsiveness. Compared to the base GLC 250 Coupe, the 300 offered a noticeable performance upgrade. However, some critics noted that the GLC 300 Coupe wasn’t as engaging to drive as some of its rivals, such as the BMW X4. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the segment, averaging around 33 mpg combined. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe (C253 facelift) represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the compact luxury SUV. The integration of mild hybrid technology demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, due to their reputation for quality and reliability. The M 264 engine, coupled with the 9G-TRONIC transmission, has proven to be a durable and dependable powertrain, making the GLC 300 Coupe a desirable option for buyers seeking a well-rounded and sophisticated SUV.
