2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe Review

Based on the standard GLC SUV, the GLC Coupe features a sloping roofline to give it a sleek and sporty profile. (It still has four doors, so Mercedes-Benz's "coupe" nomenclature is a misnomer.) In exchange, the GLC Coupe surrenders some rear-seat headroom and cargo capacity. You also give up the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The big news for the 2020 GLC Coupe is the inclusion of Mercedes' new MBUX infotainment system. We're fans of MBUX because of its ease of use, feature-rich content and multiple control options. Its voice command system, in particular, is the best in the industry.

Mercedes has also added some functions to already existing systems. The available Active Distance Assist Distronic (adaptive cruise control) now uses route-based map data to slow the vehicle ahead of turns. Furthermore, Active Lane Change Assist will automatically execute lane changes when the turn signal is activated and when sensors verify the intended lane is indeed open.

A helping hand is also present when you reach your destination thanks to the new exit-warning function. A series of alerts will let passengers know if a vehicle is approaching from behind before they open their doors into traffic.

Exactly how you would like a Mercedes to drive. It's quiet and comfortable, with a smooth powertrain that generally goes about its business without fuss. This new 2.0-liter makes 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. That's more power than last year's model, but thanks to improvements with the new engine, fuel economy has increased, too. All GLC 300 coupes come with a nine-speed automatic and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. In Sport mode, the GLC moves with some verve, but in the standard Comfort setting it can feel a little sluggish off the line.

The ride quality is smooth, even when the GLC is fitted with its larger optional wheels. Bumps or imperfections in the road are well-damped, with no wallowing or swaying about. The steering is light and direct, though there's not a whole lot of feedback through the wheel.

The driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, are some of the best on the market. The GLC maintains a reasonable gap in traffic, and it is smooth in slowing down or speeding up to match what's going on around the vehicle. If the speed limit changes, the system will slow down or speed up to match. It's neat, useful and well-integrated. The GLC's navigation system is also a real highlight. It uses augmented reality and cameras to overlay addresses or turning directions on top of an actual video feed on the infotainment screen.

So far, we've only had an opportunity to drive the top-of-the-line AMG 63 S model. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 makes 506 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque and is connected to a quick-shifting nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to help send the GLC 63 S to 60 mph from a dead stop in less than 4 seconds. That's true sports-car territory in a vehicle that can haul four people plus cargo. It sounds mean, too, with a deep, smooth exhaust note that's come to define most of AMG's top-tier models.

The GLC 63 S' talents aren't limited to just straight-line performance, either. While we're not sure how well it will hold up when pushed to its limits on a track, it's surprisingly nimble and athletic on a winding back road. Thanks to the standard air suspension, the GLC 63 corners relatively flat and hides most of its heft with grace. The brakes provide smooth, short stops, and the quick throttle response and sport-tuned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system provide ample grip to power out. The steering is surprisingly good, too, at least as far as SUVs go. It's a little numb on-center, but it's direct and weighted well.

The steering, suspension, transmission, throttle response, exhaust, and stability control can all be adjusted using various drive modes. Sport+ is the most aggressive setting, delivering quick shifts and a firm suspension tune. You can also use the buttons on the wheel and console to change various settings to be set independent of each other or preconfigured in an Individual drive mode.

Overall, the GLC 63 S is fast and as capable as it needs to be for some back-road shenanigans. If you're serious about a vehicle that can stand up to a day at the track, you might be better off in something such as the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S. But if you just want something a bit obnoxious that is sure to put a smile on your face, the GLC more than delivers.

In short, phenomenal. It's mostly carried over from the pre-refreshed model that debuted in 2016, but that's hardly a bad thing. The fit and finish is exactly what you would expect from a Mercedes-Benz product, and new upholstery and trim options improve things even further. There are a variety of wood trims available. But if that's not your thing, you can opt for aluminum or carbon-fiber accents, though the latter is only available on AMG models.

If Mercedes cut any corners compared to its more expensive offerings, we're hard-pressed to tell where it cheaped out. Unlike some of Mercedes' other more entry-level models, the GLC feels like a small Benz, not a cheap one. We're glad the carmaker is offering MBUX in more models. This system is both a huge improvement over the outgoing one and arguably the best in the class in terms of features and usability.

From the front seats forward, the GLC Coupe is identical to the standard GLC SUV. The seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustment using door-mounted controls. Heated and ventilated front seats are optional, as are heated seats in the rear. AMG models come standard with sport seats that feature more aggressive bolsters than those on the GLC 300. Those willing to sacrifice some comfort can option AMG Performance seats similar to those in the AMG GT R.

That shapely roofline might look killer on the road, but it significantly cuts into both passenger space and cargo capacity. That said, it can still comfortably fit two adults in the rear, though it won't be quite as comfortable as the standard GLC. The real loser is cargo capacity. It's near the bottom of the class, even compared to other SUV coupes. The hatch opening is both narrower and taller than the standard model, meaning you can haul around less stuff, and the things you can carry are more difficult to put inside. That's the price you pay for style.

The front seats, though, don't lose anything in the standard model. You still have a good bit of storage in the door pockets, center console and under the armrest. There are multiple USB-C ports and an available wireless charging pad.