The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d 4MATIC G-TRONIC, produced from May 2019 to July 2022, represents a significant iteration of the X253 GLC SUV following its mid-cycle facelift. Positioned as a premium offering within the GLC range, this variant combined a potent diesel engine with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury for buyers in the compact SUV segment, particularly in European markets where diesel engines remained popular. This model served as a step up from the base GLC 200, offering increased power and torque for improved driving dynamics and towing capacity, while remaining below the performance-oriented AMG models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC SUV (X253, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | GLC 300d (245 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 167-188 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.0-7.1 l/100 km (33.6 – 33.1 US mpg, 40.4 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.3 – 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.0-5.3 l/100 km (47 – 44.4 US mpg, 56.5 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg, 49.6 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 151-157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 282.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp |
| Power per litre | 125.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654 DE 20 SCR |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Length | 4655 mm (183.27 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 952 mm (37.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 123 mm (4.84 in.) |
| Approach angle | 19.9° |
| Departure angle | 14.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 12.1° |
| 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLC 300d is powered by the OM 654 DE 20 SCR, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s modern diesel lineup, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a two-stage turbocharging system, combining a small, variable geometry turbocharger for quick response at low engine speeds with a larger turbocharger for increased power at higher RPMs. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at extremely high pressures (up to 2700 bar) to ensure precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system is integral to meeting stringent Euro 6d ISC emissions standards, utilizing AdBlue to reduce NOx emissions. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the engine’s torque curve, providing optimal acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 300d 4MATIC delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The 245 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.2 seconds. The nine-speed transmission contributes to a relaxed highway cruising experience, keeping engine RPMs low. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the base GLC 200, the 300d offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and responsiveness. While not as sporty as the AMG variants, the 300d strikes a good balance between performance and comfort. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 300d 4MATIC typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium Burmester sound system, head-up display, and advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Trim levels often varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 300d utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring a four-wheel independent suspension. The front suspension employs a three-link design, while the rear utilizes a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing stability and traction. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability program (ESP) are standard features, providing enhanced safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 300d 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 39.9 to 41.3 US mpg. Compared to gasoline-powered GLC variants, the 300d offered significantly better fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine could be slightly noisy compared to its gasoline counterparts. Against competitors like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, the GLC 300d offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and efficiency.
Legacy
The OM 654 engine family, as used in the GLC 300d, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the OM 654’s advanced emissions control systems have helped it meet stringent regulations. On the used car market, the GLC 300d 4MATIC remains a popular choice, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable SUV. Proper maintenance, including regular servicing of the diesel particulate filter and SCR system, is crucial for long-term reliability. The combination of a robust engine, a smooth transmission, and a well-appointed interior ensures that the GLC 300d continues to offer a compelling value proposition for years to come.
