Test Drive: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 has cat-like qualities

FAST FACTS

* Model: Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV* Exterior color: Polar White * Interior color: Magma Gray* Engine: 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder* Horsepower: 255* Transmission: 9-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 27 mpg city, 22 mpg highway* Local dealer: Mercedes-Benz at Long of Chattanooga* Price (as tested): $50,795

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV has a cool, cat-like quality.

Some SUVs are like farm dogs, all bouncy and eager. But M-B's compact luxury SUV exudes a cool confidence that showcases its urban sophistication and European precision.

The GLC 300 has exterior lines that lean toward the horizontal - more like a wagon. On a one-week test drive in a 2020 model provided by the manufacturer, we grew more and more fond of the GLC, which fits like a tailored suit.

The GLC has some minor upgrades for the 2020 model year, but the basic design is unchanged from its 2015 introduction. The 2020 model boasts an improved infotainment system and some minor exterior tweaks to modernize its look. Still, the design is classic, and the proportions and stance are eye-catching.

Under the hood is a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine that makes 255 horsepower, plenty of power to motivate the two-ton vehicle. The nine-speed automatic transmission is exceptionally smooth, and the shift-points execute as silently as a marathoner's resting heartbeat. Fuel economy is 27 mpg highway and 22 mpg city.

Mercedes-Benz GLCs are available locally at Long of Chattanooga at 6039 International Drive. The dealership's website listed 20 GLCs in digital inventory late this week including a mix of 2019 and 2020 models.

WHAT IS IT: The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is a compact luxury SUV with seating for five. It has a four-year (or 50,000 mile) new-vehicle warranty.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST: Our tester has a base price of $42,500 and a bottom line of $50,795. Major options include a pano sunroof ($1,500), a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster ($750), 20-inch dual spoke wheels ($1,250), a driver's assistant safety tech package ($1,700), and a multi-media package with navigation ($1,250).

WHAT WE LIKED: We especially liked the classy black and white color combination on our tester. The engine is strong, but quiet.

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT: Hmm. Let us get back to you on that. Seriously, anything would be just a quibble. Taller drivers might enjoy a little more headroom - although shoulder room is excellent. We always hunt for the power seat controls on M-B's. They are on the door.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE: THE GLC 300 SUV passed the W Road test with flying colors. The car loved our mountain twisties and scampered through the switchbacks with ease. The engine packs plenty of power, but never loses its manners. The LED headlights illuminate well.

BOTTOM LINE: The cool sophistication and reasonable price of the GLC make it an excellent selection for discerning buyers.

Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.


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