augerpro

So I'm looking to replace a BMW M235xi with an SUV and the GLC is looking like a strong option. I would be looking at the base model (with sport package), not the AMG.

1) Does anyone know if there is any plan or way to get a heated steering wheel with something other than the black or silk/black interior? Specifically I'm looking at Saddle Brown or Espresso Brown

2) How are the included LED headlights? I'm a stickler for good headlights and every car I've seen that has went to LED from HID has taken a step backward in performance. IIHS doesn't have a rating yet for the GLC

3) any goofy features or reliability issues? For example I hate having to hit the start/stop button twice to kill my engine or pull the door handle twice to get out of my M235xi, it's silly. (coded out that last though)

4) How do you feel the handling is from ride smoothness to panic or sporting handling?

5) Related to 4, is the air suspension an upgrade in performance (ignoring value for the moment)

I've never had an MB before, or an SUV for that matter, but since manufacturers seem intent on making lame mid-size trucks I'm going this route for the hauling/mild towing ability, but in comfort and with some handling.

Also looking (of course) at a Q5 and X3. *Possibly* a Macan but I don't think I can justify that cost when this is a tool that will be parked as soon as it's paid off so I can get back to a sport sedan/sports car.

Anyway any feedback is appreciated!

dieseldoc

The GLC is a great vehicle. Mercedes options their cars by packages for the most part. If you want LED lights you can get statics as a standalone option. If you want the ILS adaptive LED system you have to order a fully loaded premium 3 car. You cannot get a heated wheel with a saddle brown or espresso interior. I have a fully loaded GLC without the sport package. I am very pleased with it. I would not get the air suspension. It can be be a reliability issue if you keep your cars long term. Mercedes do not drive like BMWs. different feel. Drove BMWs for years and switched to Mercedes. Mercedes smooth and comfortable. Handles quite well.

vikeor

GLC43 ftw!

Great, fun and practical car.

augerpro

AMG would be nice! But as I said, not going to happen with this vehicle.

blizzard12

Best thing would be asking the dealer as different options are available in different ways for different models in different countries.
When I ordered my C300 (in Canada) heated steering wheel was only available as part of a package I didn't want. Then the sales rep went over and beyond and eventually found out that it was in fact available as a standalone option as well.
Not sure about it in your region, for your model but it's definately worth asking and maybe pushing the question a bit.

gainful

I have owned an X3 and my wife has an GLK, I can share the following:

1. Merc interior is way better than the plastic laden X3 interior. Merc is also very thoughtful on a lot of small things, like being able to only blow cabin air against windshield, which my wife loves.

2. Ride: Merc is more comfortable than X3, GLC handling is improved over GLK, but all Mercedes have a lot more latteral body roll sometimes, which i never felt on X3.

GLK also has the sophisticated ride feeling that I didn't feel on GLC (super smooth on good road surfaces). For GLC, larger potholes results in less impact than GLK, but small bumps can be felt clearly, which GLK totally eliminates. It could be because of the run-flat tires.

3. Engine: GLC turbo 2 feels more refined than turbo 2 on X3. Although higher hp on paper, I feel the low speed acceleration is less strong than X3. Could be a result of transmission tho.

4. Brake: All Merc brakes are not as "linear" than BMW. GLC brakes is more "linear" than GLK but still lag behind X3.

5. The standard LED light is weaker than HID on X3. But the adap LED is better.

6. Seating position in GLC is lower than in GLK and X3. Or I should say the dash and belittling is higher.....

7. GLC is great that it allow you to use the cheap Garmin nav.

augerpro

Thanks for the info!

Test drove a Macan today and I liked the ride. Not a lot of cargo space though and they really are kinda ugly. And I couldn't get my elbows in the right place so they ended up sitting in my lap. It's the little things that get me! My lease isn't up until the end of the year so maybe the refresh GLC (there is a refresh for a '18 correct) will have the option of heated steering wheel for any interior. Otherwise I'll push the SA to find out exactly why it is/isn't technically possible to get it installed.

dieseldoc

I agree with you that the Macan is not that good looking. Interior is tight. Base model is more than a GLC and by the time you add any equipment you may as well buy a AMG 43 loaded which I think is a nicer car.

augerpro

Jeff do you have any picks of your interior? I'm leaning towards the Espresso Brown

dieseldoc

Here you go.

GLC220Exclusive

GLC220Exclusive

GLC220Exclusive

augerpro

So when does MB do their model year change over? Any news about new features and pricing should be imminent?

I'm pretty well decided on the GLC, but will wait until the '18 is available for order.

Grant Hummel

Push your salesman on doing more research into the heated steering wheel--he should reach out to MBUSA Product Management. Merc has commonized steering wheels on the CLA-, C-, GLC-, GLE-, GLS- and they're only making a black nappa leather wrapped heated version. The saddle brown leather interior comes with a black nappa leather wrapped steering wheel, so there is no reason why it should not be available with saddle brown.

Someone new in MBUSA Product Management (thanks to the Atlanta move) most likely confused a compatibility matrix and in turn the website and Netstar are incorrect.

augerpro

Yeah I'm going to press the SA to get an explanation from corporate on what technical reason would prevent this.

Does anyone have any info on whether the '18 is a refresh?

Penn

The adaptive LED lights are fantastic. They are more effective than the bi-Xenons on our W204.

augerpro

So looking at the GLC43 builder, it allows the heated steering wheel with Saddle brown interior. I'm thinking the GLC300 builder is screwed up and I can get that combo.

I'll probably only spring for the basic LED, Package 3 is lot of cash for stuff I will never use just to get the adaptive LED.

augerpro

So I noticed another apparent screw-up on the builder. When you pick the Sport option it shows the front fascia being identical to the AMG43, but when I look at actual pics the GLC300 w/ Sport package is missing that lower lip and the mesh area is much smaller than shown in the builder. This sort of bums me out. MB should sort their website.

mleun481

I noticed the MB site was a little odd too. In the configurator, when I picked black leather with red stitching, you lose the red seat belts. But when my dealer placed the order, he was able to add the red seat belts back. I also added heated windshield washer system - that option isn't even shown on the website.

fabbrisd1

Please understand the Build-Your-Own mbusa web will give you OK info - but a build needs to be done/confirmed in Netstar which is the accurate "build" tool.

If it was me - I would not expect a mid-generation refresh for model year 2018

augerpro

Two other questions for all of you.
1) How good are the rain sensing wipers?

2) with the parking package, at what distance does the alarm go off?

Ddmccormack

i think rain sensing isn't perfect...too fast as slowest setting, primary...a better question is re: chuddering wipers....

augerpro

I wonder if the shudder is related to the heated wipers?

Ddmccormack

first I've heard of heated wipers...and I would think no....