The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe (C253) represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality within the compact SUV segment. Produced from December 2016 through April 2019, this variant occupied a key position in the GLC Coupe lineup, offering a step up in power and refinement compared to the base GLC 250 models, while remaining more accessible than the performance-oriented AMG variants. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish, all-weather capable vehicle with a sporty driving experience. The C253 generation marked Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the burgeoning compact luxury coupe SUV market, aiming to capture customers drawn to the sleeker roofline and more dynamic aesthetic compared to the traditional GLC SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC Coupe (C253) |
| Type | GLC 300 (245 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | December, 2016 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2-9.4 l/100 km (25.6 – 25 US mpg, 30.7 – 30.1 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4-6.8 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.6 US mpg, 44.1 – 41.5 UK mpg, 15.6 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5-7.8 l/100 km (31.4 – 30.2 US mpg, 37.7 – 36.2 UK mpg, 13.3 – 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 236 km/h (146.64 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1300-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1300-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2430 kg (5357.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4732 mm (186.3 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1619 mm (63.74 in.) |
| Front overhang | 831 mm (32.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1028 mm (40.47 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.80 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe is powered by the M274.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler. This configuration produces 245 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque available from a low 1300 rpm all the way to 4000 rpm. The engine features a relatively high compression ratio of 9.8:1, contributing to its efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted, a typical configuration for rear- or all-wheel-drive vehicles. The engine is paired with Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel efficiency and performance. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is full-time, distributing power between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 245 hp engine provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds. The nine-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and responsive shifts. The wide gear ratio spread allows the engine to operate efficiently at highway speeds while providing quick downshifts for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the base GLC 250, the GLC 300 offers noticeably more power and a more confident feel. However, it doesn’t possess the aggressive performance of the AMG-tuned GLC 43 or 63 models. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The steering is precise and well-weighted, though it lacks the ultimate feedback of a dedicated sports car.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe came standard with a generous array of features, including MB-Tex upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch central display screen, and a rearview camera. Standard safety features included adaptive brake assist, crosswind assist, and collision prevention assist. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger 8.4-inch display screen, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Trim packages, such as the Premium Package and the Multimedia Package, bundled popular options together for convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporates ventilated disc brakes, while the rear also features ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power. The standard braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. The vehicle’s electronic stability program (ESP) helps to maintain control during challenging driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the rear headroom was somewhat limited due to the sloping roofline. Compared to the standard GLC SUV, the Coupe variant offered a more visually appealing design but sacrificed some practicality in terms of cargo space and rear passenger comfort. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the segment, averaging around 31 mpg combined. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with owners reporting few major issues.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe (C253) has proven to be a popular choice in the used car market. The M274 engine, while not without its potential for oil consumption issues in some cases, is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be durable. The vehicle’s combination of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and stylish compact SUV. Its sleek design and well-appointed interior have helped to establish it as a desirable option in its class.
