Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d 4MATIC Coupe Core

Mercedes’ strategic model

I’m sure I’m not the only one who has noticed an increase in car prices over the past few years. The weak yen, of course, is behind this. The exchange rate, which was around 108 yen to the dollar at the beginning of 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, has since fluctuated dramatically, briefly exceeding 160 yen to the dollar in 2024. Global inflation, while a separate phenomenon in Japan, has recently had a major impact on global automobiles, with prices, especially of imported car brands, skyrocketing.

Amidst this, Mercedes-Benz has launched a new “price countermeasure” for the GLC and GLC Coupe: the new grade “Core” that I test drove this time. The popular GLC SUV has now grown into the backbone of Mercedes-Benz. Based on the popular diesel-engine model, this new grade has been designed to keep the price down while maintaining the essential equipment and value.

Born as the core model of the GLC

To reiterate, the GLC is a core model in Mercedes’ SUV lineup. The first generation was released in 2015, and the current second-generation model underwent a full model change in 2022 and was introduced in Japan in March 2023. In 2024, it will be one of the best-selling SUVs in Japan, and is a popular model that consistently ranks high in the rankings of imported car registrations.

The current GLC grade lineup consists of four grades: the GLC 220d, which is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo diesel engine; the GLC 350e 4Matic Sport, which combines a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo gasoline engine with a plug-in hybrid system; the GLC 43 4Matic, which combines a high-output 2.0-liter inline-four turbo gasoline engine with a mild hybrid system; and the flagship GLC 63 SE Performance, which also combines a high-output 2.0-liter inline-four turbo gasoline engine with a plug-in hybrid system.Each grade is available in coupe version.

The newly added “Core” is an entry-level grade based on the GLC 220d, with limited equipment options and body colors to keep costs down, essentially “leaving only the essentials.” For example, the usual eight body colors have been narrowed down to three: white, black, and silver, and the interior is only available in black synthetic leather ARTICO (two colors when the AMG Line is selected). Options other than the panoramic sliding roof and AMG Line package are not available, but prices are set at 8.19 million yen for the GLC and 8.66 million yen for the Coupe, which are 570,000 yen and 500,000 yen cheaper, respectively, than the base 220d.

The name “Core” was chosen to convey the idea that the car “protects its core values.” It could be seen as Mercedes’ response to the pressure to raise prices due to the weak yen.

The different sizes of the coupe and SUV

The car I test drove this time was the GLC Coupe. Compared to the standard SUV-style GLC, the GLC Coupe is 50mm longer, 30mm wider, and 35mm lower. The front masks are similar, so it’s hard to notice, but when you put them side by side, the differences are clear. The wide and low proportions in particular emphasize the sporty atmosphere of a coupe.

The interior is equipped with the third-generation MBUX system, a 12.3-inch digital cockpit, and a vertical 11.9-inch media display. It also comes equipped with AR navigation and a head-up display, ensuring excellent visibility of the information displayed.

The car is also equipped with the latest safety features, including Active Distance Assist Distronic, a 360-degree camera, and digital lighting. It also has an off-road mode and a transparent bonnet that lets you see what’s ahead.

No engine or equipment has been removed.

The powertrain is the same as the base grade GLC 220d, combining a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a maximum output of 197 PS and a maximum torque of 440 Nm with a 48V mild hybrid (ISG). The motor alone produces 23 PS and 205 Nm, which contributes greatly to smooth starting and reduced gear change shock at low speeds.

Although it is advertised as an “entry-level” model, even a test drive reveals that the driving quality is exactly like that of a GLC. Acceleration at low speeds is extremely smooth, and it is light and nimble despite its approximately 2-ton body. As you’d expect from a diesel, the torque during cruising is reliable, and you can enjoy quiet driving with reduced engine speeds.

It may not be enough for those looking for the agility of a sports car, but that’s not what’s required of a diesel GLC. It fully fulfills its role as a “high-quality practical vehicle” that provides a comfortable ride for everyday use and long-distance travel.

Core as a smart choice

The steering is quick with 2.2 turns from lock to lock, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots. The catalog fuel economy is good at 18.2km/L (WLTC), which is better than the diesel model of the BMW X3 (20d xDrive = 16.3km/L), which will be its direct rival. The vehicle weight is 2010kg, which is by no means light, but the smooth acceleration and ride comfort make it seem like a Mercedes.

The Core is a low-priced model that doesn’t skimp on essential features, making it an easy choice. If you’re considering the GLC or GLC Coupe, there’s no reason not to consider this new option.

PHOTO/Akio HIRANO, Mercedes-Benz Japan

SPECIFICATIONS

Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic Coupe Core

Body size: Length 4770mm x Width 1920mm x Height 1605mm

Wheelbase: 2890mm

Vehicle weight: 2010kg

Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC diesel turbo

Total displacement: 1992cc

Maximum output: 145kW (197PS) / 3600rpm

Maximum torque: 440Nm (44.9kgm) / 1800-2800rpm

Transmission: 9-speed AT

Drive system: AWD

Suspension type: Front 4-link, rear multi-link

Brakes: Front and rear ventilated discs

Tire size: Front 255/45R20, rear 285/40R20

Performance 0→100km/h acceleration: 8.1 seconds

Top speed: 225km/h

Vehicle price: 8.66 million yen

Related reading

Price equilibrium collapses! What will the BMW X3 do with the substantial price cut of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d Core?

The rival Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3 have similar specs and prices. However, the new entry-level GLC model, Core, released in March 2025, is expected to disrupt the price balance. Let’s compare it with the GLC 220d 4MATIC Core and X3 20d xDrive, which both share the same diesel engine.