2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d 4MATIC

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d 4MATIC brings a 2.1-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque. That torque arrives from low in the rev range, giving the GLC the kind of effortless pull that suits an SUV particularly well. It is paired with Mercedes-Benz's 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic, which keeps the engine relaxed when cruising while having enough ratios to make good use of the available torque when acceleration is needed.

Fuel economy is one of the strongest arguments for the 220d. Mercedes quoted a combined NEDC figure of 5.0 litres per 100 km, although real-world consumption will depend heavily on traffic, driving style and road conditions. In ADAC testing, the GLC returned 5.9 litres per 100 km overall, with 6.4 litres in urban driving, 5.1 litres outside town and 6.9 litres on the motorway.

The 4MATIC system gives the GLC all-wheel drive, sending power to all four wheels and giving the car useful traction when conditions change. Combined with the SUV's ground clearance and composed road manners, it makes the GLC comfortable on the highway but equally at home dealing with the less predictable surfaces that come with everyday driving.

Comfort is another major part of the GLC experience. The cabin is designed around a relaxed driving position, with leather seats and electric adjustment in this example. The sunroof brings more light into the cabin, while the reverse camera and parking sensors make manoeuvring easier when you're dealing with tight parking spaces. It is the sort of equipment that becomes more valuable the more regularly you use the car.

The GLC also has the practicality to back up its premium character. It seats five, offers a 505-litre luggage compartment with the rear seats in place and up to 1,600 litres with them folded.

With a claimed 0–100 km/h time of 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h, the 220d has enough performance for confident everyday driving without needing to turn the GLC into a performance SUV.

What you get here is a Mercedes-Benz SUV built around comfort, usable performance, sensible fuel consumption and everyday practicality. The 220d engine makes long-distance driving economical, 4MATIC adds traction, and the equipment in this particular example gives the cabin the comfort and convenience expected from the GLC.