2016 Mercedes GLC (India-bound) design sketch revealed - IAB Report

13/06/2015 - 12:59 | ,   | Aravind Jayachandran

Company also re-confirms unveil date for June 17.

Mercedes-Benz has re-confirmed that the all new Mercedes GLC will be unveiled globally on June 17th. The confirmation was followed by the official design sketch of the production-spec SUV, giving us a first look at the design of the model.

2016 Mercedes GLC front three quarter design sketch revealed
As seen before, the design draws influence from the GLE Coupe Concept as well as Merc’s current range.

As seen before, the design draws influence from the GLE Coupe Concept as well as Merc’s current range. Characteristic elements include a 2-slat chrome grille flanked by new LED headlamps with LED DRLs, and large air inlets in the lower fascia. The side profile features 5-spoke alloy rims and strong character lines that define the designs of latest Mercs. Wrap-around horizontal taillamps, a roof spoiler and a dual exhaust system round up the changes at the back.

Inside, the GLC's interior design seems to mirror that of the C-Class. It features an updated version of Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment software running on a free-standing touch display with a Touchpad on the center tunnel. The interior is trimmed in ARTICO leather upholstery with wood and silver trim. There is also an optional Panoramic sunroof roof that adds to the airy feeling of the cabin. For rear passengers, the rear legroom is, reportedly, more spacious than the C-Class sedan.

2016 Mercedes GLC Class interior features detailed
Inside, the GLC's interior design seems to mirror that of the C-Class. Courtesy: Auto Express.

Along with the interior, the GLC also shares the MRA rear-wheel-drive platform with the C-Class. So it's likely that it will also borrow the engine lineup with C-Class, which includes a range of 2.0-liter petrol and diesel motors, and a 3.5-liter twin turbo V6 petrol engine.

Also on the cards is a plug-in hybrid Mercedes GLC 350e petrol and a Mercedes GLC 450 AMG Sport variant (featuring the 362 bhp twin-turbo V6 from the C 450 AMG). Power is routed through the wheels via a standard 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox to all four wheels via a full-time 4MATIC AWD system.

The GLC will be offered with an optional multi-chamber air suspension AIR BODY CONTROL, which is a first for its segment (excluding the performance-oriented Porsche Macan).

2016 Mercedes GLC Class front quarter features detailed
The GLC will be offered with an optional multi-chamber air suspension AIR BODY CONTROL, which is a first for its segment. Courtesy: Auto Express

Also Read: Mercedes GLA enters local assembly in India

Unlike the outgoing Mercedes GLK, the GLC is developed for right-hand-drive markets. As expected, the Indian launch has been confirmed by Mercedes India, thus offering a direct rival to the Audi Q5Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 next year.

Mercedes GLC Coupe Concept - Image Gallery

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