 2017 Mercedes Benz GLC Cupe
The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé makes quite an impression as the sports car among the Mercedes‑Benz SUVs. A standard-fit sports suspension as well as more direct sports steering, DYNAMIC SELECT and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission combine effortlessly superior ride comfort with decidedly sporty agility. Two suspension variants with continuously adjustable damping are optionally available: the new DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL with steel springing as well as the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension. The distinct sportiness and dynamism is enriched with the high safety and state-of-the-art assistance systems so characteristic of the brand. 20 June 2016 saw the sales release, and interested customers can order the GLC Coupé from 49,444.50 euros.
The combination of multifunctional SUV and dynamic coupé world neatly fuses emotion with intelligence. With an exterior length of 4.73 metres, a height of 1.60 metres and a wheelbase of 2.87 metres, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé is dynamic and compact in appearance. This makes the coupé almost eight centimetres longer and some four centimetres lower than the multi-talented GLC, with which it shares its basic architecture. The GLC Coupé owes its distinct character to a characteristically coupé-esque, single-louvred diamond radiator grille and a restyled, dropping roof line. The A‑pillar is less steeply raked, while the continuation of the roof outline is lower, terminating in the elegantly flowing, muscular tail end characteristic of a coupé.
Perfect combination of design elements from two different worlds
The striking features of the front end are its dominant, steeply raked diamond radiator grille with a single louvre and integral star, short overhang and SUV‑inspired chromed underguard. The innovative headlamp concept, optionally in LED High Performance technology, sports the now characteristic Mercedes-Benz light signature. A striking injection of sports car genes is provided by the large lateral air inlets.
The harmony with which the intrinsically opposed design worlds of coupé and SUV have been reconciled is revealed by the side view of the 1.60‑metre-high GLC Coupé with its characteristic, stretched roof line of a sports coupé. The squat greenhouse blends in seamlessly with the side of the vehicle to underline its coupé character. The interplay between high beltline and wide shoulders results in proportions that lend the GLC Coupé its dynamic looks. This interaction is given added emphasis by the drawn-in waist between the dropping line and the lower, rearwards ascending light-catching contour.
A clear clue to the vehicle's distinctive SUV heritage is given by the optionally available side running boards. Flush with the outer edge of the body, wide wheels up to a size of 50.8 centimetres (20 inches) together with ample ground clearance underpin the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé's sporty, dynamic ambitions on unpaved tracks and unsurfaced roads.
Tail end with athletic looks
The styling of the tail end gives added emphasis to the vehicle's coupé genes. With its pronounced shoulders, muscular bumper design with integral exhaust tailpipe trims and underguard in the form of a diffuser, the wide tail end of the GLC Coupé underlines the vehicle's athletic looks. This enables the coupé to hug the road. Narrow, split tail lights, a centrally positioned brand star and a sharp spoiler lip reflect a design that made its debut with the S-Class Coupé and which all Mercedes-Benz coupé models have since followed. Relocated to the lower section of the bumper, the number plate as well as the characteristic form of the rear window with its rounded upper area, are among the further stylistic features. The rear window dispenses with a wiper, as the airflow does not break away until after the spoiler lip, which means that water is unable to strike the rear window. Like the headlamps, the night design of the LED tail lights sports the hallmark light signature of Mercedes-Benz.
Interior with characteristic coupé flair and high-grade ambience
Following the exterior design philosophy, the interior welcomes the occupants with characteristic coupé flair and a high-grade ambience. The design idiom combines sensual purity with dynamic sportiness while embodying a convincing interpretation of modern luxury. Distinctive stylistic elements of the GLC Coupé are the dashboard and the centre console with its flowing lines: a large, one-piece console panel below the semi-integrated media display performs a sweep from the centre air vents to the armrest. These clear, sensual lines give a feeling of spaciousness while conveying a puristic modernity.
The optionally available AMG Interior line provides a clear commitment to even greater dynamism and sportiness. This package includes, for example, sports seats with upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre with the option of sports seats with bi-colour look leather upholstery.
Sport programme: DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL or AIR BODY CONTROL
The new GLC Coupé comes as standard with sports suspension including DYNAMIC SELECT with the five transmission modes ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL. DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL sports suspension with steel springing and adjustable damping is optionally available. Also with this option, DYNAMIC SELECT allows the driver to adapt the individual character of the vehicle.
Uniquely in this market segment, the suspension can be equipped with fully supporting multi-chamber springing and electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping. The AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension combines excellent driving stability and optimal comfort with sporty agility. Specific characteristics are preselected depending on the DYNAMIC SELECT settings. In SPORT and SPORT+ mode, the occupants feel as if they are sitting in a sports car with a high level of lateral dynamics due to the even tauter connection to the chassis, which is lowered by 15 millimetres. COMFORT mode makes for an especially comfortable ride with soft suspension. To ensure maximum possible driving safety also in this mode, the spring/damper forces are instantaneously adjusted, for example in case of a sudden evasive manoeuvre. Further benefits of the system include reduced roll when cornering, automatic load sensing and lowering of the load compartment sill by 4 centimetres for more convenient loading and unloading.
Another key parameter for the sporty characteristics of the GLC Coupé compared with the classic GLC SUV is the retuned Direct-Steer system, which, with 15.1:1 (GLC: 16.1:1), offers a more direct steering ratio together with even sportier characteristics of the power assistance in the SPORT and SPORT+ modes.
Key parameters for high energy efficiency
The design has also bestowed superlative aerodynamics on the new GLC Coupé. With a cd value of 0.31 and a drag area of 2.53 m2, the coupé clearly leads its segment with cd x A = 0.79. Apart from the vehicle's streamlined basic form, this exceptional aerodynamic performance also results from a host of detail solutions, such as sealing of the radiator and headlamp surrounds, a radiator shutter and optimised underbody panelling.
Despite generous exterior dimensions and a long wheelbase - both of which benefit especially the occupants and the luggage compartment - as well as a full equipment configuration, the vehicle weighs in at just 1710 kilograms (GLC 250 4MATIC Coupé), which puts it among the leaders in this market segment. The main contributory factor in this is the all-new body, which features an intelligent mix of materials, comprising aluminium and high- to ultra-high-strength steels. Aluminium components additionally reduce the weight of the suspension, which also benefits ride comfort due to the attendant reduction in unsprung masses. The optional, fully supporting AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension features spring elements in lightweight yet robust glass-fibre-reinforced plastic, which reduce the system weight in comparison to conventional air suspensions. The use of the new compact transfer case as an add-on module and the 9G-TRONIC with its magnesium transmission housing results in a 12 kg weight reduction in comparison to the previous versions installed in other models.
Seven model variants, top-of-the-line model from Mercedes-AMG
The new GLC Coupé is provisionally available in seven engine variants: customers have the choice of three diesel drive systems, three petrol engines and a plug-in hybrid. The offering includes the four-cylinder diesel models GLC 220 d 4MATIC Coupé and GLC 250 d 4MATIC Coupé with outputs ranging from 125 kW (170 hp) to 150 kW (204 hp). In the 190 kW (258 hp) GLC 350 d 4MATIC Coupé with its V6 diesel engine, impressive performance with moderate consumption values are ensured. It goes without saying that all diesel models boast the latest SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment with AdBlue® injection and that they are certified in accordance with EU6.
Distinctive dynamism is promised by the petrol models GLC 250 4MATIC Coupé with 155 kW (211 hp) and GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé with 180 kW (245 hp). The particularly dynamic Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé has even more performance up its sleeve: this powerful top-of-the-line model comes with perfect on-road performance, individual and dynamic styling and an attractive equipment package. The V6 biturbo engine puts out 270 kW (367 hp), accelerating the coupé to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
With the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé, Mercedes-Benz also offers a plug-in hybrid that combines agile all-wheel drive with extremely low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions: this 235 km/h mid-size SUV with a system output of 235 kW (320 hp) emits just 59-64 g of CO2/km, setting a new standard in its class. This part-time electric model has an all-electric and therefore emission-free range of up to 34 km, and can accelerate as required to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds thanks to the boost function.
The models at a glance:
- GLC 220 d 4MATIC Coupé, diesel, 125 kW (170 hp)
- GLC 250 d 4MATIC Coupé, diesel, 150 kW (204 hp)
- GLC 350 d 4MATIC Coupé, diesel, 190 kW (258 hp)
- GLC 250 4MATIC Coupé, petrol, 155 kW (211 hp)
- GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé, petrol, 180 kW (245 hp)
- Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé, petrol, 270 kW (367 hp)
- GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé, plug-in hybrid, 235 kW (320 hp)
As different as the seven GLC Coupé models may appear at first glance, they are all characterised by high efficiency as well as compliance with the EU 6 emissions standard. Most models come with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, while, with the exception of the plug-in hybrid, all variants of the GLC Coupé are equipped with 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé uses the 7G‑TRONIC PLUS transmission, which was specially optimised for the needs of a hybrid vehicle.
Equipment configuration: comprehensive and individual
The new GLC Coupé impresses even in its standard equipment configuration, which includes light-alloy wheels of 45.7-centimetre diameter (18 inches), the Chrome package with visible exhaust tips, EASY-PACK tailgate, Audio 20 CD multimedia system, reversing camera, KEYLESS-GO starting function and upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather. Also included as standard are assistance systems such as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and ESP® with Dynamic Cornering Assist. Comfort and safety can be significantly further enhanced by additional driver assistance systems.
Mercedes-Benz also offers a wide selection of optional packages for its new SUV Coupé. Customers can choose between the AMG Line for the interior and exterior, Night package, EXCLUSIVE Interior plus single- or two-tone designo interior. A visual as well as dynamic highlight comes in the guise of the AMG light-alloy wheels measuring 48.3 centimetres (19 inches) or 50.8 centimetres (20 inches) in diameter fitted with mixed-size tyres. The attractive light-alloy wheels are available in numerous design variants in conjunction with the AMG Exterior line. An optional sports exhaust system for the four-cylinder petrol engines reinforces the emotive sound experience.
However sporty and aesthetically appealing, the dynamic GLC Coupé also impresses with some practical features too. With a capacity of 491 to 1400 litres, the load compartment leads this market segment. And the availability of space in both front and rear puts the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé on a par with the GLC in terms of comfort. Entrance height, shoulder room, elbow room and legroom are all identical.
Airbags, etc.: protection in an emergency - it goes without saying
In keeping with the Mercedes-Benz tradition, the body forms the foundation for exemplary crash safety. A high-strength safety passenger compartment forms the core of this concept. It is surrounded by specifically designed and crash-tested deformation zones, which ensure the best possible occupant safety by virtue of optimised force paths and a combination of die-cast aluminium components and ultra-high-strength materials.
In addition to 3-point safety belts with pyrotechnical and reversible belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and those in the outer rear seats, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. These include combined thorax/pelvis sidebags for driver and front passenger and an optimised windowbag extending over both seat rows, optional sidebags for the outer rear seats and a driver kneebag.
Design: Dynamic elegance meets off-road passion
Hot and cool - these two poles form the sensuously pure design idiom of the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy, perfectly embodied by the GLC Coupé. On the one hand, modern aesthetics were the source of inspiration for the sensuous lines, surfaces and proportions of the new sportily youthful coupé generation with the characteristic off-road touch. On the other, the designers have created minimalist, purist forms which emphasise the new off-road coupé's intelligent technology and engineering. All in all the vehicle body appears powerful but defined by engineering, and conveys dynamic sportiness.
The best of both worlds
The combination of multifunctional SUV and emotively appealing coupé world creates sporty proportions, which Mercedes-Benz has already bestowed on the GLE Coupé and is now reinterpreting more youthfully in a more compact version. The basis for this is formed by a main body section with a distinctive and muscular look, a low, extended greenhouse and large wheels.
Whilst the GLC Coupé shares its basic architecture with the multi-talented GLC, it is almost eight centimetres longer and some four centimetres lower and sports hallmark coupé proportions which are considerably more dynamic. The steeply raked front flows into the bonnet, which leads to a less steeply inclined A-pillar. From this a restyled, sloped roof line follows, finishing in an elegantly flowing, powerfully curved coupé tail end. Also less steeply raked, the rear window dispenses with a wiper, as the airflow does not break away until after the spoiler lip, which means that water is unable to strike the rear window.
To underline the individual character there are two single-tone, seven metallic and three designo paintwork choices available for the GLC Coupé.
Silhouette: dynamism and suspense
The harmony with which the intrinsically opposed design worlds of coupé and SUV have been reconciled is revealed by the side view of the 1.60-metre-high GLC Coupé with its characteristic, stretched roof line of a sports coupé. The squat greenhouse blends in elegantly with the side of the vehicle to underline its coupé character. The interplay between high beltline and wide shoulders results in proportions that lend the GLC Coupé its dynamic looks. Viewed from the side, the dropping line highlights these proportions as a hallmark Mercedes signature. In tandem with a counter-line gently rising in the lower part of the vehicle from the front wheel, it creates a formal sense of tension. The counter-line makes the vehicle appear longer, encompasses the rear and ultimately flows over the sides and into the bumper creating a sense of balance.
A high, tense beltline serves as the third side line and visually reduces the height of the side windows. A non-continuous trim strip in the area of the rear window with a consequently high-quality appeal emphasises the C-pillar.
Clear indicators of the SUV hereditary factors are given by the optionally available running boards with a matt aluminium insert and rubber lips on the surface, in order to prevent the danger of slipping. Striking matt black claddings in the wings and on the longitudinal members protect the wings, doors and side wall from stone chippings and also accentuate the off-road character of the coupé.
Flush with the outer edge of the body, wide wheels up to a size of 50.8 centimetres (20 inches) together with ample ground clearance underpin the GLC Coupé's sporty, dynamic ambitions on unpaved tracks and unsurfaced roads.
Front: perfect combination of design elements from two different worlds
Standing upright, the Mercedes coupés' hallmark diamond radiator grille with one single louvre and its integral star dominates the front and underscores the kinship with the Mercedes-Benz sports cars. The A‑wing flourish in the bumper beneath the radiator grille plus large lateral air intakes also inject a distinctive touch of sports car character. In parallel with this the short, front overhang with an underguard serves as a hallmark SUV styling element, either in silver chrome or black, depending on the equipment.
Reminiscent of light sculptures, headlamps, in LED technology on request, decisively shape the face of the new coupé. Standard features on board include halogen headlamps, combined with LED daytime running lamps integrated into the bottom of the headlamp.
Optional extras include a static LED headlamp and a dynamic LED headlamp with the Intelligent Light System. What is now the hallmark Mercedes-Benz light signature is displayed by their innovative headlamp design. This characteristic brand element for the turn signal indicators, position light, daytime running lamps and ambient light follows the inner contours of the headlamps and looks like an eyebrow. This ensures a confident appearance by day and an unmistakeable night design. Edges in the headlamps are in black. This creates the effect of depth for even greater emphasis.
Tail end: mirrors the strength of an athlete
The styling of the tail end also makes the vehicle's coupé genes clearly apparent. A strong indent in the C-pillar forms a powerfully emphasised shoulder, which is distinctly sculpted and gives the impression of a clearly defined muscle. Through this clear styling with a very broad effect the GLC Coupé also appears decidedly athletic from the rear perspective.
The sporty look is underlined by a powerful bumper design with integral exhaust tailpipes and an underguard styled as a diffuser. This enables the coupé to hug the road. Narrow, split tail lights, a centrally positioned brand star and a sharp spoiler lip reflect a design that made its debut with the S-Class Coupé and which all Mercedes-Benz coupé models have since followed. Relocated to the lower section of the bumper, the number plate as well as the characteristic form of the rear window with its rounded upper area are among the further stylistic features. Like the headlamps, the night design of the LED tail lights sports the hallmark light signature of Mercedes-Benz. The tail light follows the contour of the lamp here.
Interior and space concept: High-quality, variable, with characteristic coupé flair
The interior of the GLC Coupé is styled on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories. This applies to the painstaking choice of select, high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details. And also to the design idiom, which blends sensuality (hot) and clarity (cool) with characteristic coupé flair, thus contributing to the extremely high-quality feel of the interior and convincingly showcases contemporary luxury.
In order to continue the dynamism of the exterior in the interior, fundamental elements are repeated inside the vehicle. This applies above all to the interplay of the contrasts between clear lines and extravagant surfaces. The hallmark Mercedes design element that is the "dropping line" is also found in the doors.
Distinctive stylistic elements in the interior of the GLC Coupé are the dashboard and the centre console with its flowing lines: a large, one-piece console panel performs a sweep from the centre air vents to the armrest. This clear, reduced surface treatment gives a feeling of spaciousness while conveying a puristic modernity.
The newly developed innovative touchpad in the handrest over the Controller nestles ergonomically in the centre console. As on a smartphone, this provides for very simple and intuitive operation of all the head-unit functions using finger gestures. The touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting - in any language supported by Audio 20 or COMAND Online.
A centrally positioned multifunction display is the main eye-catching feature above the centre console - with a screen diagonal of 17.8 centimetres (7 inches), or 21.33 centimetres (8.4 inches) if COMAND Online is ordered. In both versions it is located in the best position ergonomically, above the centre console, and is elegantly partially integrated into the horizontal trim running from the instrument cluster to the side air vent on the front-passenger side. Its surface is completely protected by a glass cover and is bordered by a galvanised silver shadow frame. Visualisations and animations on the central display enhance the operating convenience and make the functions of driver assistance and communications systems tangible.
Five round air outlets lend the dashboard a sporty touch. Depending on the equipment, with their silver chrome metallic cool-touch effect they create a tangible contrast to the warm look of the other materials - such as the wood in the centre console or the ARTICO man-made leather on the dashboard. The high design standards duly continue with the controls. All switches have a high-quality, three-dimensional design befitting a luxury vehicle and benefit from a clear layout.
Ambient lighting - more than just decoration
The interior lighting makes predominant use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. This also applies to the optionally available ambient lighting in the three colours solar (amber), polar (ice blue) and neutral (white), which are selected via a menu item on the head unit and can be set to five brightness levels. In addition to the lighting elements in the dashboard console panel and on the door trim, the ambient lighting also includes illuminated outer door sill panels, for example.
Space concept: the best of both worlds
The stand-alone character of the GLC Coupé within the Mercedes-Benz SUV family is particularly apparent from its flowing coupé tail end. Nevertheless the dynamic newcomer fundamentally shares the dimensional concept of the multi-talented GLC - albeit with a few differences, which consciously emphasise the dynamic coupé spirit. The coupé variant of the SUV is 38 millimetres lower and longer by 76 millimetres in the tail end - both in favour of the extended roof line. The wheelbase (2873 mm) and body width (1890 mm) are the same on the GLC and GLC Coupé.
Even with all this sportiness and the high aesthetic standards the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé still boasts plenty of practical plus points. The dynamic coupé roof reduces the headroom at the front and rear by a few millimetres, but without tangibly restricting the sense of spaciousness. The positive space experience is due in part to the fact that the availability of space in both the front and rear puts the GLC Coupé on a par with the GLC in terms of comfort. At the front and rear the shoulder room (1455/1436 mm) and elbow room (1499/1477 mm) plus the legroom in the rear (945 mm) are identical.
The coupé shape of the vehicle's tail end and its tailgate, which is considerably less raked than that of the GLC, do restrict the boot. However with 491 to 1400 litres respectively the load compartment capacity is right out in front in this market segment. The driver and front passenger can thus enjoy a generous amount of space in the GLC Coupé too.
Seats: sporty and variable
The sporty character of the GLC Coupé is underlined by sportily configured front seats. They offer more comfort in the shoulder area and their special shape is a factor in the generous legroom for the rear passengers. The head restraints can be moved fore and aft and their height can be adjusted by about 55 millimetres via four detents.
The seats in the rear boast an individual seat character. The backrest of the rear seat can be folded with a 40/20/40 split - automatically as standard and with electric release. A folding armrest with a stowage compartment and cup holder is integrated in the centre. The three height-adjustable head restraints also provide good rearward visibility.
The following additional appointments are available for the seats:
- Seat Comfort package with 4-way lumbar support, manual seat cushion length adjustment and electric seat cushion angle adjustment
- Fully power-adjustable seats with Memory package including electric cushion depth adjustment and 4-way lumbar support
- Three-stage seat heating with automatic intensity reduction/deactivation for seat cushion and backrest. Seat heating for the two outer rear seats is additionally available
- Climatised seats including ventilation with reversible direction of flow for driver and front passenger.
The automatic child seat recognition system omits the previous transponder and uses a weight mat instead. This enables any child seat to be used. The airbag is automatically deactivated in this case and reactivated once the child seat has been removed.
Added dynamism with AMG Line
The optionally available AMG Interior line provides a clear commitment to even greater dynamism and sportiness. This package includes, for example, sports seats with upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre, ARTICO bi‑colour and the option of sports seats with bi-colour look leather upholstery.
Drive system and suspension: Sport programme: DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL or AIR BODY CONTROL
Uniquely in this market segment, the suspension can be equipped with fully supporting multi-chamber springing and electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping. The AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension combines excellent driving stability and optimal comfort with sporty agility. Specific characteristics are preselected depending on the DYNAMIC SELECT settings. In SPORT+ mode, the occupants feel as if they are sitting in a sports car with a high level of lateral dynamics due to the even tauter connection to the chassis, which is lowered by 15 millimetres. COMFORT mode makes for an especially comfortable ride with soft suspension. To ensure maximum possible driving safety also in this mode, the spring/damper forces are instantaneously adjusted, for example in case of a sudden evasive manoeuvre. Further benefits of the system include reduced roll when cornering, automatic load sensing and lowering of the load compartment sill by 4 centimetres for more convenient loading and unloading.
Another key parameter for the sporty characteristics of the GLC Coupé compared with the classic GLC SUV is the retuned Direct-Steer system, which, with 15.1:1 (GLC: 16.1:1), offers a more direct steering ratio together with even sportier characteristics of the power assistance in the SPORT and SPORT+ modes.
Its suspension positions the GLC Coupé at the pinnacle of the market segment. Numerous design measures have led to a further improvement in suspension and ride comfort accompanied by excellent driving dynamics and agility. These include above all the four-link front axle, larger wheels at the front and rear plus bigger tyre dimensions up to 50.8 cm (20 inches). The elastokinematics have also been optimised, and the use of numerous aluminium components on the front axle and the five-link rear axle has resulted in weight savings while at the same time enhancing stability.
As standard the GLC Coupé offers a sports suspension with more robust springing and a reduced tendency to roll. Things get even sportier with the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL, without neglecting the hallmark brand comfort. The steel suspension with steplessly variable damping puts in a convincing performance interacting with the ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL drive programs and offers optimum prerequisites for impressive driving experiences ranging from sharply direct to gently dignified.
AIR BODY CONTROL with ADS PLUS: innovative air travel
The GLC is the sole model in this market segment to offer the option of fitting the chassis with a full-support multi-chamber air suspension system and the electronically controlled, continuously adjustable Adaptive Damping System Plus (ADS PLUS). Thanks to adaptation of the spring rate and damping characteristics, this configuration combines excellent driving stability and sporty agility with optimum comfort and outstanding off-road capabilities.
The air springs at the front and rear axle boast higher volumes, which can be switched on and off via solenoid valves depending on the driving situation. This results in different spring rates. The necessary spread from soft basic springing for cruising that is as comfortable as possible through to sporty tuning is thus facilitated. If one wanted to transfer this level of flexibility to a vehicle with a conventional steel suspension, this would mean that, for example, the material thickness of the coil springs would need to be constantly varied. Fully automatically, within milliseconds and from many thousands of options, AIR BODY CONTROL therefore always selects the best possible spring set-up for the relevant conditions.
A similar principle applies to the Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS. Here the setting continuously controls the respective optimum damping characteristics. ADS PLUS and AIR BODY CONTROL are networked by an innovative, integrated control concept. Thanks to this networking and extremely short response times of around 60 milliseconds, very high driving dynamics are achieved without compromising comfort. During evasive manoeuvres in COMFORT mode, for example, the spring and damping forces are instantly increased to optimise roll control and therefore handling stability.
Further benefits of AIR BODY CONTROL include reduced roll during cornering, automatic level control and lowering of the load compartment sill by 40 mm for convenient loading and unloading.
Ingenious combination: DYNAMIC SELECT and AIR BODY CONTROL
Specific characteristics are preselected according to the settings of the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling program. In SPORT+ mode the GLC Coupé's occupants feel as if they are sitting in a sports car with a high level of lateral dynamics due to the tauter connection to the chassis, which is lowered by 15 millimetres. Comfort mode offers the very opposite ride experience, focussing on particularly comfortable running with soft connection of the chassis. The new GLC Coupé offers the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control with five driving programs as standard:
- ECO - places the emphasis on energy-efficient driving, with sailing function and ECO display in support of the most fuel-efficient driving style
- COMFORT - well-balanced driving mode, with comfortable suspension tuning, fuel-efficient set-up for the drive system
- SPORT - more direct response of engine and automatic transmission and more progressive steering characteristics support a sporty driving style, additionally taut, sporty suspension configuration in conjunction with DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL or AIR BODY CONTROL and ADS PLUS. Lowering of the driving level by 15 mm when fitted with AIR BODY CONTROL
- SPORT+ - even more direct response for maximum longitudinal and lateral dynamics, powertrain is tuned with the emphasis firmly on driving dynamics for high agility, suspension level is lowered by 15 mm if AIR BODY CONTROL has been ordered
- INDIVIDUAL - configuration according to personal preferences, within the bounds of combinations providing for safe and effective driving dynamics The COMFORT, SPORT and ECO settings for drive system, suspension and steering can be activated and combined according to personal preferences.
All DYNAMIC SELECT modes are individually visualised on the central media display.
4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive: the prime mover for excellent driving dynamics
Also as standard, all models (except GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé) offer the nine-stage automatic transmission 9G-TRONIC. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control, the automatic transmission with a torque converter boasts great agility and responsiveness or poised composure. The potential of the transmission is exploited to the full. It offers an enjoyably high shift speed and perfect transitions for energetic sprinting as well as gentle, barely perceptible gear changes for enjoyable cruising.
The development engineers have fully revised the design of 4MATIC permanent all‑wheel drive in combination with 9G-TRONIC. In contrast to the former configuration, the single-stage transfer case is no longer integrated into the automatic transmission, but rather flange-mounted on the 9G-TRONIC as a separate system. This solution known as an "add-on" combines the advantages of both concepts and results in increased efficiency. The new all-wheel-drive powertrain features the same compact design as with the previous, integrated solution, offers 50 newton metres of pre-lock torque and allocates the drive torque to the front and rear axles with a 45:55 split via a planetary differential. The add-on design also offers the following advantages:
- Enhanced performance - use of particularly torquey engines possible
- Separate oil circuits - lubricant properties tailored specifically to the 9G‑TRONIC and the transfer case, resulting in less wear and enhanced NVH comfort as a result of reduced friction loss
- Weight advantage - magnesium housing of the 9G-TRONIC is retained with the add-on solution, resulting in weight savings of around 12 kilograms for the overall system compared to the integrated variant with aluminium housing which was employed on the previous model.
- Improved system efficiency - as a result of the reduced weight, the lower friction loss, the broad gear ratio spread of the 9G-TRONIC and the resultant longer axle ratios
As with all hybrid models from Mercedes-Benz, the GLC 350 e 4MATIC is equipped with the latest version of 7G-TRONIC PLUS with a wet clutch, which has been specifically optimised in line with the needs of hybrid applications and also combines high driving dynamics with excellent drive comfort and superior efficiency.
Energy efficiency: More efficiency - more fun at the wheel
A reduced-friction all-wheel-drive powertrain, the outstanding aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight design are the primary reasons for the high energy efficiency of all the new GLC Coupés. Initially there are a total of seven engines to choose from, including the plug-in hybrid GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé model and the six-cylinder GLC 350 d 4MATIC Coupé diesel model.
The GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé boasts minimal fuel consumption and emissions while offering performance on a par with that of a sports car. Over and above this the hybrid coupé can drive up to 34 km purely electrically and thus emission-free, the top electric speed is 135 km/h. Like the plug-in SUV brother GLC, the coupé version comprises all the usual comfort and efficiency systems. The most important facilities at a glance:
- Silent start: the vehicle starts virtually silently and runs in electric mode. At this point the combustion engine is generally kept switched off.
- Boosting: The electric motor kicks in to boost the output of the internal combustion engine by up to 85 kW, turning the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé into a sports car. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes only 5.9 seconds.
- Energy recuperation: during braking and coasting, energy is recovered and stored in the battery. This energy can then be used at a later stage for electric driving or the boost function.
- Haptic accelerator pedal: Supports fuel-efficient driving. A resistance point indicates the maximum available electric output. A double impulse signals that the driver should remove their foot from the accelerator pedal in order to switch off the combustion engine and decouple it from the drive train.
- Intelligent HYBRID: Intelligent operating strategy for hybrid vehicles, anticipates the course of the road and the traffic situation for maximum efficiency. This includes radar-based recuperation, an anticipatory shifting and operating strategy, a route-based operating strategy and the ECO Assistant.
- Pre-entry climate control: The desired interior climate can be set before starting your journey - cooling in the summer, heating in the winter. This function can be activated via a pre-set departure time or via smartphone using the Mercedes me connect app.
- Retrieval of vehicle status: It is additionally possible to control the charging process or check the charge status and the current electric range via smartphone on Mercedes me connect.
The GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé offers four operating modes which are available in the DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs ECO and COMFORT:
- Hybrid: All hybrid functions, such as electric mode, boost and recuperation are available and are deployed for optimum fuel efficiency.
- E-mode: used for all-electric driving - for example in inner-city areas or because the battery holds sufficient charge for the remainder of the journey.
- E-Save: the charge status of the battery is maintained - for example to allow all-electric driving in an environmental zone at a later stage in the journey.
- Charge: Serves to charge the battery via the combustion engine while on the move, to enable all-electric driving in an environmental zone at a later stage in the journey, for example.
Diesel engine range with four and six cylinders
The offering includes the four-cylinder diesel models GLC 220 d 4MATIC Coupé and GLC 250 d 4MATIC Coupé with outputs ranging from 125 kW (170 hp) to 150 kW (204 hp). In the 190 kW (258 hp) GLC 350 d 4MATIC Coupé with its V6 diesel engine, impressive performance with moderate consumption values are ensured. It goes without saying that all diesel models boast the latest SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment with AdBlue® injection.
Fast faster: petrol variants up to 270 kW (367 hp)
Distinctive dynamism is promised by the petrol models GLC 250 4MATIC Coupé with 155 kW (211 hp) and the GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé with 180 kW (245 hp) available from the end of 2016. The particularly dynamic Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé has even more performance up its sleeve (also from the end of 2016): this powerful top-of-the-line model comes with perfect on-road performance, individual and dynamic styling and an attractive equipment package. The V6 biturbo engine puts out 270 kW (367 hp), accelerating the coupé to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
Intelligent lightweight design for slimline results
Another key factor behind the vehicle's economic efficiency is the weight-shedding programme that the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé has undergone. The main contributory factor here is the totally new hybrid material body, which introduces innovative lightweight design into volume production. Through the intelligent material mix of aluminium, high- to maximum-strength steels and robust plastic the GLC Coupé's foundations are lighter - and this with best-in-class rigidity for outstanding handling, optimised quiet-running characteristics and vibration comfort plus further enhanced crash safety.
The following aluminium components are used:
- Front wing, bonnet and roof panelling
- Front: front end (extruded aluminium section), crash boxes, frames for fitting headlamps, cooling system and bonnet closing system
- shock absorber strut consoles (die-cast aluminium) to house the front struts
- rear area with shock absorber strut consoles, cross members and longitudinal members (die-cast aluminium)
- door hinges
- 4x4 subframe for front axle and steering, rear axle carrier
Suspension: four-link front suspension with spring link, strut rod, upper wishbone and steering knuckle (forged aluminium), five-link rear axle and wheel carrier (forged aluminium). This lowers the weight of the rear axle by 5 kilograms, while also improving
Weight-shedding measures also apply to the air suspension elements of the AIR BODY CONTROL system, which consist of glass-fibre-reinforced plastic. The aluminium and plastic components of the chassis and suspension not only reduce the weight but also enhance ride comfort as a result of the attendant reduction in unsprung masses.
Other weight advantages result from the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive powertrain with the nine-speed automatic 9G-TRONIC featuring a magnesium housing. Weight savings of around 12 kilograms are attained here. Highly robust body components made of plastic are also used. The front major assemblies compartment partition is one such component.
Streamlined transition
The design has also bestowed superlative aerodynamics on the new GLC Coupé. With a cd value of 0.31 and a drag area of 2.53 m2, the coupé clearly leads its segment with cd x A = 0.79. Apart from the vehicle's aerodynamically efficient basic shape, this exceptional aerodynamic performance also results from a host of solutions relating to points of detail:
- Cooling air controlled according to installed engine variant, with ring-type shutter
- Improved sealing of the radiator section and flow properties to make efficient use of the available cooling air
- Streamlined design of the front and rear aprons
- Sealed headlamp surrounds
- Three-dimensional front wheel spoilers with patented slotted wheel arch linings for optimised air flow around the wheels
- Aeroacoustic and aerodynamic design of the A-pillar
- Extended roof spoiler with optimised flow properties and joint seals
- Aerodynamically optimised underbody with extensive engine compartment and underbody panelling
- Aerodynamically optimised wheels and tyres
Safety: At the highest level
The basis for the numerous functions of the assistance systems is an extensive sensor system that provides the vehicle with a 360-degree view. This includes the stereo camera behind the windscreen in the area of the interior mirror and thus at the driver's eye level. Two camera eyes provide the stereo camera with a three-dimensional view of the area of up to 50 metres in front of the car, and it is able to monitor the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres and thus determine the position and movement of objects, especially of vehicles and pedestrians.
Two short-range radar sensors in the front bumper and at the side of the rear bumper respectively (range up to 30 metres), a long-range radar (up to 200 metres) including mid-range scan (up to 60 metres) behind the radiator grille and a multi-mode radar (up to 80 metres) in the centre of the rear bumper complete the sensor system.
The data from the camera and radar is compiled in a control unit in order to provide relevant data for a host of assistance systems - a process dubbed "sensor fusion" by safety experts. Intelligent algorithms analyse this data in order to detect and pinpoint the position of vehicles ahead, crossing, approaching from the rear and even from the front, as well as the position of pedestrians, within a large field of vision. In addition, the camera also detects road markings and a variety of traffic signs. The aim is all-round protection not just for occupants of the vehicle itself, but for other road users too.
The new GLC Coupé is fitted as standard with ATTENTION ASSIST, which warns the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness. The COMAND system navigation function on motorways flags nearby break options as stopovers, providing the system has been specified in the vehicle. The ATTENTION ASSIST function offers an adjustable level of sensitivity and informs drivers in a separate view in the instrument cluster about their level of drowsiness and how long they have been driving since their last break.
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS: Autonomous braking when a rear-end collision threatens
Also part of the on-board standard equipment is COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with extended capabilities. The further enhanced system can provide even more effective aid in mitigating the severity of rear-end collisions or even in preventing them entirely.
To this end, the radar-based system constantly monitors the area of traffic in front of the vehicle, and can determine the distance and speed of the vehicles ahead. If the distance drops significantly below the safety threshold, the system issues a visual warning to the driver. If it detects a serious risk of collision, the driver receives an additional audible warning. At the same time, the system computes the braking power required to prevent the impact in the ideal case at speeds from as low as 7 km/h. If the warned driver then depresses the brake pedal firmly, the system is capable of boosting insufficient braking commensurate to the situation. In so doing, it makes the best possible use of the remaining distance in order to leave the vehicles behind room to brake.
If the driver fails to react, the new COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS can go one step further and autonomously brake for slower or stopping vehicles. The system even brakes when stationary vehicles are detected up to a speed of 70 km/h, and can prevent rear-end collisions up to 40 km/h depending on the situation.
More comfort thanks to linear and lateral guidance: DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot
DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control helps the driver to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front that is travelling slower than the selected cruising speed. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of Steering Assist, which helps the driver with lateral guidance. The system helps the driver to keep the vehicle in the middle of its lane by generating a steering torque when driving in a straight line or even on slight bends.
The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as vehicles driving ahead together with their spatial positioning, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, Steering Assist can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, enabling semi-autonomous following of tailbacked traffic even when there are no clear lane markings visible. The system can therefore increase ride comfort and considerably reduce driver stress in many traffic situations. DISTRONIC PLUS can be activated in a speed range between 0 and 200 km/h with a selector lever on the steering wheel. The desired speed can be set between 30 km/h and 200 km/h.
Drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times even when Steering Assist is activated, as the function only works in bends above a certain, speed-dependent radius. Legal considerations also mean there are no plans to introduce hands-free driving. The system's design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver's hands are on the steering wheel. If they are not, the system first gives the driver a visual warning. If the driver fails to react, the system gives an audible warning and lateral guidance is deactivated. Linear control remains unaffected by this and continues to be available. Needless to say, the driver is able to override Steering Assist at any time. If the driver signals to change lane, for instance, the lateral guidance function will switch into passive mode for the duration of the lane change.
The performance capabilities of the basic DISTRONIC PLUS function have been increased once again. Now the system is able to brake at a rate of up to 5 m/s² without any intervention from the driver. There is faster acceleration if the "SPORT" modes are activated. Vehicle acceleration is also far more dynamic if the driver signals to overtake by switching on the indicators, assuming the adjacent lane is clear.
By combining the radar and camera data, DISTRONIC PLUS is also able to detect vehicles cutting in and vehicles ahead in adjacent lanes and take any necessary action promptly. This can prevent illegal overtaking on the inside lane on motorways and similar multi-lane highways, for example, by adapting the speed to that of vehicles in the outside lanes. Below 85 km/h moderate overtaking with a maximum relative speed of 20 km/h is still possible.
More safety on junctions: BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist
Apart from material damage, accidents at junctions often result in serious injuries. The new Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist from Mercedes-Benz is therefore not only capable of helping the driver prevent or mitigate the severity of rear-end collision in linear traffic. The Cross-Traffic Assist function can also help in the event of impending collisions with crossing traffic.
If this anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by issuing visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. Applying just the right amount of braking power for the situation at hand maximises the available braking distance for traffic behind. The Cross-Traffic Assist function is effective at speeds up to around 72 km/h, while BAS PLUS is able to aid the driver in linear traffic at any speed.
For more safety in urban traffic: BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake
The BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake function include pedestrian detection. Thanks to the combination of stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are triggered when a hazard is detected. If the driver reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist as the situation requires, right up to full brake application. If the driver fails to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake brakes the vehicle autonomously. PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection is active up to approx. 72 km/h and can autonomously prevent collisions with pedestrians when travelling at up to 50 km/h.
Preventive protection when a rear-end collision threatens: PRE-SAFE® PLUS
PRE-SAFE®PLUS offers an extension of the familiar occupant protection measures in situations where following traffic poses a danger. A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic following behind the car. If the risk of an impact from the rear is detected, the rear hazard warning lights are activated to alert the driver of the vehicle behind (not on vehicles with USA/Canada coding). In addition, the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection measures, for example the reversible belt tensioners, are deployed. If the vehicle is stationary and the driver signals that they wish it to remain so (e.g. by applying the brakes, activating the HOLD function or engaging "P" using the selector lever), PRE-SAFE®PLUS comes to the driver's aid by increasing the brake pressure. The vehicle's brakes are "locked".
Keeping the vehicle firmly braked greatly reduces the strain placed on the occupants, such as the risk of whiplash injuries. It also serves as protection for other road users: uncontrolled vehicle movements after the initial impact that could lead to secondary collisions are reduced. These could be running into a vehicle in front or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions, for example.
Active Lane Keeping Assist
The Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when the neighbouring lane is not clear, meaning that a lane change could result in the risk of a collision. The system can determine if this is the case using the information from the stereo camera and the radar system. The latter has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumper.+
Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, vehicles to be overtaken and parallel traffic, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. When the adjacent lane is occupied, the system not only warns the driver with pulsing steering wheel vibrations when crossing the lane markings, but also intervenes with one-sided, course-correcting braking action induced by ESP®. It thereby optimally complements Active Blind Spot Assist and also enables collisions with oncoming traffic, which can often have far-reaching consequences, to be avoided.
Active Lane Keeping Assist is active at speeds between 60 and 200 km/h. If driver activity in the form of active steering, braking or acceleration, for example, is detected or when the indicators are switched on, both the warning and the corrective brake actuation are suppressed.
Warning of no-overtaking and no-entry signs: Extended Traffic Sign Assist
The Traffic Sign Assist which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist represents yet another major contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz. The system even detects no-overtaking signs and can warn the driver if it detects no-entry signs. The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera's data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed both in the instrument cluster and on the map display. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas.
No-overtaking zones and the signs ending such zones are also registered and displayed. In the case of signs imposing access restrictions, the system emits an acoustic warning together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster - making an effective contribution towards the prevention of serious accidents caused by wrong-way drivers.
Automatic parking manoeuvres: Active Parking Assist
Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake intervention in both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. What is more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically beforehand.
When travelling at speeds below 35 km/h, ultrasound sensors with an extended range in the bumpers' side sections survey the right side of the road for suitable parallel and end-on parking spaces. The same procedure is carried out for the left side of the road if the driver activates the left direction indicator. A symbol in the instrument cluster shows that the system is in the process of measuring. If a suitable parking space is identified, an arrow appears alongside the symbol indicating that the system is ready for automatic parking. All the driver now has to do to activate the system is engage reverse gear and confirm by pressing the OK button on the steering wheel.
Active Parking Assist steers and brakes the vehicle automatically and shows the necessary action that the driver needs to take in each case in the display, such as engaging the correct gear. The driver is able to control acceleration of the vehicle by lightly pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake.
Continuous high beam without dazzle: Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
Some 20 percent of all kilometres driven in Germany are driven at night. But 40 percent of all accidents happen during that time. One of the main reasons for this is reduced visibility.
For the first time, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently while driving by masking out any other road user detected in the beams' cone of light. If the camera-based system registers either oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it will adapt the light distribution according to the traffic situation when high beam is switched on. Consequently, the driver can leave the high-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. There is no need to switch them on and off manually, resulting in a significant increase in the overall driving time with high beam.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus likewise makes use of the stereo camera also employed by other assistance systems. If its image recognition algorithm picks up a vehicle that is oncoming or driving ahead, it actuates a mechanism in the headlamp module. This then masks the section of the LED headlamps' high-beam cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers from being dazzled. If road users are detected outside the area that can be masked - for instance when cornering with multiple vehicles in the headlamps' beams - the system will switch to the familiar function of headlamp range control using the low-beam headlamps.
Possible backglare caused by increased use of the main beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road are also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly.
All-round visibility in the GLC Coupé
In addition to Active Parking Assist, simpler handling and a clearer view, for instance when manoeuvring in tight spaces or driving in dense urban traffic, are ensured by the 360° camera, which is able to show the vehicle and its surroundings from different perspectives. Functions of the 360° camera in detail:
- The virtual bird's-eye view shows an aerial view of the GLC Coupé and the surrounding area three metres to the front and rear and 2.5 metres to the sides of the vehicle.
- Display of perspectives which are not actually physically possible. E.g.: when manoeuvring in a multi-storey car park with a low ceiling a bird's-eye view of the car and its surroundings are shown from a height of over three metres, although the ceiling is actually only a few centimetres above the vehicle.
- Visualisation of the sides of the vehicle and its surroundings to avoid knocks to the exterior mirrors or the wheel rims, for example.
- Visualisation of obstacles below the vehicle's beltline, which are not visible to the driver.
- Visualisation of crossing traffic in front of and behind the vehicle when manoeuvring out of tight parking spaces or in tight exits.
- Visualisation of pedestrians on the pavement when manoeuvring out of tight parking spaces or in tight exits.
- The colour of the car on the COMAND display always corresponds to the vehicle's actual paintwork.
Relaxed driving experience
The improved ergonomics and simpler controls in the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé compared to its predecessor model also help to enhance safety. All important vehicle functions and settings can be carried out intuitively using the central rotary pushbutton or the touchpad. The desired settings or information are clearly visualised by the large, partially integrated colour media display in the middle of the dashboard. Direct selection buttons next to the light switch module to the left of the steering wheel additionally enable direct activation of the most important assistance systems.
Also new is the Head-up Display. It shows important information on the front windscreen, directly in the driver's field of vision, thus providing for clear legibility and for less distraction from the road ahead. The system provides information on speed, posted speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from the DISTRONIC system.
Hybrid body: the safe foundation
In keeping with the Mercedes-Benz tradition, the body forms the foundation for exemplary occupant protection in the event of a crash. A high-strength safety passenger compartment forms the core of this concept. It is surrounded by specifically designed and crash-tested deformation zones, which ensure the best possible safety for the occupants by virtue of optimised force paths and a combination of die-cast aluminium components and ultra-high-strength materials. This assures the new GLC Coupé of the potential to put in an excellent showing in all the worldwide rankings.
The measures in detail:
- Highly robust passenger compartment consisting of high-strength and ultra-high-strength sheet steel, tailored blanks (sheet steel with graduated wall thicknesses) and cast aluminium components
- Bodyshell structure, the front and rear of which can absorb energy with purposeful deformations
- Large deformation zone of the front due to a subframe that absorbs additional energy in an accident
- Several parallel load paths for improved load distribution in partial frontal collision (offset crash)
- Additional strut made of high-strength steel between the damper dome and windscreen cross member on the driver's side which distributes the load from forces in the upper side member plane and reduces steering and pedal intrusion in the footwell.
- Additional firewall supports between the front and outer longitudinal members, which prevent the front wheel from intruding into the footwell in a severe, offset frontal collision
- Pressure-die-cast magnesium cockpit cross member between the A-pillars
- Doors with reinforcement profile
- Main floor with massive tunnel reinforcement and continuous floor side members
- Rear seat cross member with additional reinforcements, separated from the rear floor
- Composite rear structure with longitudinal floor members in graduated plate thicknesses and a corresponding rear centre section
On the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé with plug-in hybrid technology, a lithium-ion battery and other high-voltage components are integrated in the rear area. Special cast aluminium parts form a deformation-proof area to shield off these components.
Airbags & co.: cushioning protection for the occupants
Three-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioners and belt force limiters are installed for driver, front passenger and passengers on the outer rear seats. The centre seat of the second row is equipped with a standard 3-point belt system. A rear seat-belt status display in the instrument cluster informs the driver whether the passengers in the back have fastened their seat belts. i-Size child seat anchorage points on the outer rear seats ensure safe attachment of appropriate child seats with additional anchorage points at the top of the rear seat backrest. The front passenger seat can be fitted with automatic child seat recognition, which dispenses with the existing transponder and instead works with a weight mat. This enables any standard child seat to be used. The airbag is automatically deactivated in this case and reactivated once the child seat has been removed.
In addition, a host of airbags provides occupant protection in an accident. These include:
- A windowbag in the roof area between A-, B- and C-pillars for the head area of driver, front passenger and passengers in the outer rear seats
- Combined thorax/pelvis sidebags for driver and front passenger, which are able to provide additional protection in the event of a side impact. Sidebags for the outer rear seats are optionally available.
- Kneebag for the driver to protect the knees and stabilise the upper body, which positively influences occupant movement in an accident.
- Adaptive airbags for driver and front passenger with two-stage staggered deployment, depending on the detected severity of the impact and seat position.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé is equipped with Mercedes-Benz emergency call eCall. An emergency call can be made automatically or manually. It is triggered automatically after deployment of one of the pyrotechnic belt tensioners or airbags in the vehicle. The service centre then establishes voice communication with the vehicle.
Best possible protection for more vulnerable road users
Mercedes-Benz attaches priority to the protection of more vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians or cyclists. The GLC is equipped with an active bonnet which is raised by around 80 millimetres in certain accident scenarios to provide additional deformation space. Under the bonnet, the package has been further optimised with an engine cover and deformable air intake, creating yet more deformation space. These measures ensure that the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé meets the markedly more stringent Phase 3 requirements of Euro NCAP pedestrian protection.
BAS PLUS warns when pedestrians are detected in the danger zone by the stereo multi-purpose camera. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian protection triggers autonomous braking when the system detects a pedestrian in the danger zone and the driver does not react to the system's warnings. This pedestrian detection, in conjunction with the optionally available Driver Assistance package Plus, represents a milestone in preventing accidents with pedestrians and/or reducing their consequences.
Euro NCAP's "Best in class" award for the GLC shows just how effective this concept is. The coupé version clearly has the potential to receive this rating too.
GRUPA MEDIA INFORMACYJNE & ADAMN NAWARA |
