The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 stands as a beacon of enduring excellence in the competitive landscape of small luxury SUVs. For years, the GLC has consistently earned high recommendations, a testament to its sophisticated blend of comfort, performance, and opulent features. Even when faced with rivals benefiting from newer designs or fresh entries like the Genesis GV70, the GLC maintains its allure, particularly for discerning drivers who prioritize classic elegance and refined luxury. This review delves into the key aspects that make the 2022 GLC 300 a compelling choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.
The Enduring Appeal of the 2022 GLC 300
Excellence in the automotive world is often measured by longevity and consistent performance. The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class exemplifies this principle. Since its introduction in 2016, this generation of the GLC has consistently ranked among the top small luxury SUVs. This sustained success is remarkable, especially considering the evolving competition. While competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 have undergone more recent redesigns, and new contenders like the Genesis GV70 have emerged, the GLC 300 continues to captivate buyers with its timeless design and unwavering luxury.
For those drawn to classic styling and a genuinely luxurious feel, the 2022 GLC 300 remains a top contender. Its appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend everyday practicality with the premium experience expected from the Mercedes-Benz marque. While a fully redesigned GLC is on the horizon for the following year, the current 2022 model still holds significant value and desirability, offering a compelling package of features and driving dynamics.
Driving Costs and Market Position
Understanding the financial aspect is crucial for any car purchase. The estimated monthly fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is around $191, based on North Dakota premium unleaded prices and average driving habits. This positions it slightly higher than the average midsize SUV, but it’s a reasonable figure considering the GLC’s luxury status and performance capabilities.
Looking ahead, the 2023 GLC promises significant technological advancements, drawing inspiration from the new C-Class sedan. However, for those who appreciate the current model’s balance of technology and traditional luxury, or prefer to avoid the potential complexities of a brand-new system, the 2022 GLC 300 presents a very attractive option. Its proven track record and Edmunds Expert Rating of 8.2 out of 10 underscore its position as a leading vehicle in its class.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Benchmark of Excellence
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team rigorously evaluates each vehicle, combining objective track testing with real-world driving assessments. This comprehensive approach results in the Edmunds Expert Ratings, based on over 30 criteria points. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 has earned a “Great” rating of 8.2 out of 10, a testament to its all-around excellence.
Edmunds’ expert verdict highlights the GLC 300’s smoothness and refinement. It excels in providing serene comfort, a high-quality cabin environment, and impressive technology and safety features. In a segment populated by formidable rivals like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Porsche Macan, and Volvo XC60, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 continues to set the benchmark for luxury and driving satisfaction.
Performance: Agile and Responsive
Rating: 8.5/10
The GLC 300 delivers confident performance thanks to its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It offers ample power for daily driving, highway merging, and overtaking maneuvers. In Edmunds’ testing, the GLC 300 achieved a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 5.8 seconds, surpassing the average for base-engine small luxury SUVs and notably quicker than the Audi Q5’s 6.2 seconds.
The nine-speed automatic transmission complements the engine perfectly, providing smooth and rapid gear changes. Maneuverability is another key strength. The steering is light and responsive, ideal for navigating city streets. Selecting Sport or Sport+ mode adds a welcome heft to the steering, enhancing driver engagement without sacrificing comfort. The well-tuned suspension and strong brakes further contribute to the GLC 300’s composed and refined driving dynamics.
Comfort: Serene and Refined Ride Quality
Rating: 8.5/10
Ride comfort is a standout feature of the 2022 GLC 300. It effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a stable and controlled feeling. This level of refinement is exceptional for a compact SUV. The front seats offer excellent comfort and a wide range of adjustability, accommodating various body types.
The cabin is remarkably quiet, effectively isolating occupants from outside noise. Edmunds’ test GLC exhibited no creaks or rattles, further enhancing the serene driving experience. The climate control system is quick to respond and easy to operate, even through voice commands via the MBUX infotainment system, adding to the overall comfort and convenience.
Interior: Spacious and User-Friendly
Rating: 8.5/10
The GLC 300’s interior is notably spacious for its class. The driver’s seat offers extensive adjustability, placing most controls within easy reach. Entry and exit are effortless. Rear passengers enjoy generous space, even behind taller front occupants. While the rear doors don’t open quite as wide as the front doors, accessibility remains convenient.
The standard MBUX infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, featuring clear menus and controls for virtually all vehicle functions. Users can interact with the system via touchscreen, touchpad, steering wheel controls, or voice activation, all of which are highly responsive.
Technology: Cutting-Edge and Intuitive
Rating: 9/10
The 2022 GLC 300 excels in technology integration. The 10.25-inch MBUX center screen boasts vibrant graphics and logical menus. Optional features like integrated navigation and the digital instrument cluster further enhance the tech experience. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide seamless smartphone integration with rapid boot-up times.
The voice control system stands out for its accuracy and broad functionality, making it genuinely useful for various commands. The GLC 300 also features advanced driver assistance systems. The adaptive cruise control maintains a consistent and safe following distance, even in traffic. Combined with lane keeping assist, it offers impressive semi-automated driving capabilities in highway congestion. The surround-view camera system is invaluable for parking in tight spaces.
Storage: Practical but Not Class-Leading
Rating: 7/10
Cargo and storage are areas where the GLC 300 is not as competitive as some rivals. It offers 19.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, less than the BMW X3’s 28.7 cubic feet. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped), also lower than the BMW X3’s 4,400 pounds. Small-item storage within the cabin is adequate but could be improved, particularly for smartphone placement.
However, the GLC 300 remains practical for family use. The spacious rear seat comfortably accommodates two child safety seats, and the car seat anchors are easily accessible.
Fuel Economy: Respectable Efficiency
Rating: 7.5/10
The rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Edmunds’ real-world testing largely confirmed this, with an observed 25.8 mpg on a mixed-driving evaluation route. Fuel economy decreases in more powerful GLC models, reaching an estimated 18 mpg for the high-performance GLC 63 AMG. For a luxury SUV, the GLC 300 offers a reasonable balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Value: Premium Feel Justifies the Price
Rating: 8/10
The GLC 300 is priced competitively within the luxury SUV segment and delivers a genuine premium experience. The interior features high-quality materials, and the controls have a substantial, tactile feel. Panel alignment exhibits German precision, reflecting meticulous build quality. The inclusion of the standard MBUX infotainment system enhances the perceived value.
However, Mercedes-Benz’s warranty coverage lags behind some competitors. While brands like Jaguar and Infiniti offer more comprehensive warranties, the GLC 300’s overall quality and prestige contribute to its strong value proposition.
Wildcard: Everyday Luxury and Enjoyment
Rating: 8/10
Mercedes-Benz prioritized everyday luxury and usability in the GLC 300’s design. The exceptional interior design and ride comfort are immediately noticeable and contribute significantly to the ownership experience. These strengths outweigh minor drawbacks like limited cargo space. Stepping into the GLC 300 provides a sense of tranquility and escape from daily stresses. While “fun to drive” might be subjective, the GLC 300’s refined and comfortable nature makes it a vehicle drivers will genuinely look forward to using.
Edmunds Recommendation: The GLC 300 is the Sweet Spot
For most buyers, the base GLC 300 is more than sufficient, offering a compelling blend of luxury and performance. For those in colder or wetter climates, the all-wheel-drive 4Matic version is a worthwhile upgrade. Regardless of the chosen configuration, Edmunds recommends adding the Driver Assistance package for its advanced safety and convenience features like adaptive cruise control.
Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class trim levels
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Model Lineup
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is available in three primary trim levels:
- GLC 300: The well-equipped base model featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, LED headlights, power liftgate, 18-inch wheels, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and the 10.25-inch MBUX touchscreen with smartphone integration. Standard driver aids include forward collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and an automated parking system.
- GLC 300 4Matic: Adds all-wheel drive to the GLC 300’s features.
- AMG GLC 43: The performance-oriented model with a turbocharged V6 engine, sport-tuned all-wheel drive and suspension, 20-inch wheels, and upgraded interior trim.
Numerous optional packages and standalone features are available across the GLC lineup, including the Driver Assistance package, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera system, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and more, allowing buyers to customize their GLC 300 to their exact preferences.
