We Like: AMG model’s autobahn-storming performance; interior quality; technology.
We Don’t Like: Compromised utility and packaging.
Not quite an off-roader, not quite a wagon, not quite a sports car—the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe is arguably near the top of the list of pointless things. But it shows how far SUVs have evolved from jacked-up two-box trucks with off-road capability.
It’s difficult to make something intrinsically tall and bulky look sexy and low slung, but the GLC Coupe carries off the idea with more élan than the larger GLE Coupe. Even so, it’s polarizing. “This is a compromised GLC,” Christian Seabaugh said, referencing last year’s SUV of the Year winner. “And for what? A dopey-looking roofline?” The polished, well-appointed interior drew more unanimous praise, however. “Super premium and hugely impressive,” Ed Loh said. Added Alisa Priddle: “You feel special as you buckle in.”
Don’t miss all the latest Car, Truck and SUV of the Year content at MotorTrendAwards.com!
The entry-level version is powered by a 241-hp turbo-four, and the AMG-massaged GLC43 model is powered by a 362-hp twin-turbo V-6. The GLC300 Coupe is more nimble and more buttoned down than the caliper-winning GLC300 crossover, and although the chassis doesn’t disappoint, it doesn’t excite, either. It’s just quietly competent, with a better ride and steering than BMW’s X4. The AMG version, on the other hand … is “remarkably fast in a straight line,” Chris Walton said, “and offers enough grip to carry ludicrous speed through the fast sweepers.”
Although the GLC43 Coupe delivers performance to match its style, the GLC300 Coupe is simply about the visuals. In the context of the traditional GLC300—which offers the same quality and technology plus more usability for less money—the Coupe falls short.
Read about other 2018 SUV of the Year contenders:
| 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic Coupe | 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe | |
| BASE PRICE | $46,875 | $60,645 |
| PRICE AS TESTED | $65,455 | $76,125 |
| VEHICLE LAYOUT | Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV | Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV |
| ENGINE | 2.0L/241-hp/273-lb-ft turbo DOHC 16-valve I-4 | 3.0L/362-hp/384-lb-ft twin-turbo DOHC 24-valve V-6 |
| TRANSMISSION | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) | 4,076 lb (53/47%) | 4,254 lb (55/45%) |
| WHEELBASE | 113.1 in | 113.1 in |
| LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT | 183.5 x 76.0 x 64.1 in | 186.1 x 76.0 x 62.4 in |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.7 sec | 4.6 sec |
| QUARTER MILE | 15.2 sec @ 89.6 mph | 13.2 sec @ 103.5 mph |
| BRAKING, 60-0 MPH | 137 ft | 112 ft |
| LATERAL ACCELERATION | 0.79 g (avg) | 0.92 g (avg) |
| MT FIGURE EIGHT | 27.6 sec @ 0.63 g (avg) | 25.0 sec @ 0.79 g (avg) |
| EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON | 22/27/24 mpg | 18/24/20 mpg |
| ENERGY CONS, CITY/HWY | 153/125 kW-hrs/100 miles | 187/140 kW-hrs/100 miles |
| CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB | 0.81 lb/mile | 0.96 lb/mile |
The post Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe: 2018 Motor Trend SUV of the Year Contender appeared first on Motor Trend.
from Motor Trend http://ift.tt/2jmpcEr
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire