The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, specifically the X253 facelift model produced from 2019 to 2022, represents a significant iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s popular compact luxury SUV. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GLC lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level GLC 250 and the performance-oriented AMG variants. This variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 255 horsepower and paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury features appealing to a broad customer base in the North American market and globally.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC SUV (X253, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | GLC 300 (255 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV50 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 255 Hp @ 5800-6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 128.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1800-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CAMTRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1764 kg (3888.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 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%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4658 mm (183.39 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1613-1623 mm (63.5 – 63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605-1618 mm (63.19 – 63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 29.6° |
| Departure angle | 23.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14° |
| Wading depth | 300 mm (11.81 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 343 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The X253 generation Mercedes-Benz GLC, launched in 2015, represented a significant step forward for the brand’s compact SUV offerings. The 2019 facelift brought with it updated styling, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain. The GLC 300, powered by the M264 2.0-liter engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission, was a core model in the range, designed to appeal to buyers seeking a premium SUV experience without the higher price tag of the AMG models or the diesel-focused GLC 220d available in Europe. It competed directly with vehicles like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Acura RDX.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GLC 300 is the M264 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver a responsive and efficient driving experience. The M264 engine family is known for its NANOSLIDE cylinder coating, a plasma-transferred wire arc (PTWA) process that reduces friction and improves durability. The engine also incorporates CAMTRONIC variable valve timing, allowing for optimized performance and fuel economy across a wide range of driving conditions. Paired with this engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth and efficient gear changes, contributing to both fuel economy and driving comfort. It features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently. The transmission also includes a manual shift mode for drivers who prefer more control.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 300 9G-TRONIC offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The nine-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its sweet spot, delivering smooth acceleration. Compared to a hypothetical six-speed automatic, the 9G-TRONIC’s closer gear ratios contribute to improved fuel efficiency and reduced engine noise at cruising speeds. The rear-wheel drive configuration, standard on the GLC 300, provides a balanced feel, although all-wheel drive (4MATIC) was a popular option. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and the suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 300 came standard with a generous array of features, including MB-Tex upholstery, dual 12.3-inch digital displays (instrument cluster and infotainment screen), 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 Burmester surround sound system, and advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Trim packages, such as the Premium Package and AMG Line Package, added further enhancements to both comfort and aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 300 utilizes a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension features coil springs and an independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension also employs an independent multi-link design with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The standard braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with minimal body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 300 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, achieving around 24 mpg combined. Compared to the GLC 250, the 300 offered a noticeable performance boost. Against the higher-output AMG GLC 43, the 300 provided a more affordable entry point into the GLC range, sacrificing some performance for a lower price and improved fuel efficiency. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the M264 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission, has established itself as a popular choice in the used luxury SUV market. Its combination of comfort, technology, and reasonable running costs makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium vehicle. The M264 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, and parts availability is generally good. As a result, well-maintained examples of the GLC 300 continue to hold their value and remain a desirable choice for discerning buyers.
