The engine is a prime example of the trend of downsizing. The 1,991-cc in-line four turbo-petrol motor makes a credible 245 PS and 370 Nm, which are fed by the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission to the 4MATIC intelligent all-wheel-drive system. It has a rear-biased torque split, though dynamic changes in distribution can be made in milliseconds to power the wheel with the best traction in situations when grip is a privilege. Even with a weight of 1.9 tonnes, this motor lends the GLC more than decent performance. The torque band is wide and it peaks as early as 1,300 rpm, typically allowing for a spotlessly clean and artistically linear power build-up.
With the selection of drive modes using the Dynamic Select ― Eco, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ ― it’s easy to get the car to behave as you like it. The changes in the character of the response are subtle in the first three modes, with an overly light steering feel in Eco and Comfort. The engine, too, may as well be on a recliner in Eco. Comfort wakes it up. Sport feels the best of the lot, and also ever so slightly firms up the wheel. Sport+ keeps the motor on its toes. Shifts occur, at times, past 5,500 rpm ― where the power peaks. The bulk is evident, but not cumbersome. The GLC feels planted for most part and behaves well. Of course, that’s not what most owners will be looking at. The plush seating, the rather generous second row, and the large 550-litre boot all contribute to comfortable travel. The 201-mm ground clearance also contributes to peace of mind on several occasions. Furthermore, the move from point A to point B can be sped up if necessary.
The GLC 300 4MATIC manages 0-100 km/h in a claimed 6.5 seconds. Considering the searing heat and cabin load, 8.8 seconds wasn’t too bad. The GLC is best suited to Autobahn-like surfaces and carries its speed well. In Comfort, it cruised at 100 km/h in ninth at just 1,400 rpm. Straight-line stability and cornering temperament are both amplified in Sport+. Nothing really upsets its demeanour. It’s calm, collected and relaxed, and keeps its occupants in the same state as well. Driven with a more casual foot, the 9G-Tronic shuffles gears as needed to maintain a smooth progress, shifting well before the needle even gets a glimpse of the red-line. It’s the refinement that is its trump card. And the buyer for a refined petrol luxury car is omnipresent. Besides, at the Rs 50-lakh price-point, it’s quite an attractive proposition.
