2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV vs Off-Road: A Comparison

The Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV showcases the latest evolution of the German automaker’s popular compact luxury SUV. Mercedes-Benz builds this model with refined on-road manners and upscale interiors, yet the GLC also delivers surprising capability off the beaten path. For this model year, Mercedes-Benz adds off-road capability while maintaining the luxurious experience that defines the brand.

Design and Off-Road Readiness

The GLC maintains its distinctive styling, featuring a prominent Mercedes-Benz grille, while adding subtle design elements that hint at its off-road potential. Engineers optimized the approach and departure angles compared to previous generations, allowing the vehicle to navigate more challenging terrain. With a ground clearance of 201 mm when equipped with the optional Off-Road Engineering package, the GLC offers sufficient clearance to navigate modest obstacles.

The body structure has been reinforced in key areas to withstand the stresses of off-road driving. Underbody protection shields vital components from rocks and debris, while strategically placed skid plates offer additional protection for the engine, transmission, and fuel tank.

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive System

At the heart of the GLC off-road capability is Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Unlike simple all-wheel-drive setups found in many crossovers, the 4MATIC system features intelligent torque distribution that can send power to the wheels with the most traction in milliseconds.

The standard 4MATIC system operates with a default 45:55 front-to-rear torque split under normal conditions, but can instantly adjust when wheel slip is detected. In extreme conditions, the system can direct up to 100% of available torque to either axle, ensuring optimal traction is maintained.

Off-Road Intelligence

The new GLC introduces an enhanced OFFROAD driving mode, accessible through the Dynamic Select system. When engaged, this mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and stability control parameters to optimize performance in challenging conditions.

The available Transparent Hood technology uses cameras to create a virtual view of the terrain beneath the vehicle, displayed on the central touchscreen. This innovative feature allows drivers to spot obstacles that would otherwise be hidden from view, enhancing confidence when navigating rocky terrain.

Terrain Response

The upgraded Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) system functions as a low-speed cruise control for steep descents, enabling the driver to concentrate on steering rather than braking. With the Off-Road Engineering package, drivers can select from specialized terrain modes, including Sand, Rock, and Mud, each of which optimizes vehicle systems for specific conditions.

The GLC air suspension can raise the vehicle by up to 30 mm for additional ground clearance when needed, and automatically lowers at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. The system can also detect when the vehicle is stuck and initiate a rocking motion to help free it from deep sand or mud.

Power and Performance

The GLC offers multiple powertrain options, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 255 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Mercedes pairs this efficient engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, which adds 20 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque for short bursts, making it especially useful when climbing steep grades or tackling difficult terrain.

The nine-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth, predictable power in off-road situations, thanks to programming that prevents unwanted shifts during critical maneuvers. Low-range gearing, although not as extreme as that of dedicated off-road vehicles, provides sufficient torque multiplication for moderate off-road challenges.

On-Road Refinement

Despite its enhanced off-road capabilities, the GLC maintains the Mercedes-Benz trademark on-road refinement. The adaptive suspension system continuously adjusts damping forces to provide a comfortable ride on highways while firming up during spirited driving or off-road adventures.

The cabin remains whisper-quiet, thanks to extensive sound insulation and acoustic glass, allowing occupants to enjoy the premium Burmester surround sound system even when travelling over rough surfaces. Heated and ventilated seats, along with dual-zone climate control, ensure comfort in all weather conditions.

Top 5 Best Features

1. Intelligent 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive - Provides instantaneous torque distribution to wheels with the most traction, essential for off-road capability.
2. Off-Road Engineering Package - Includes additional ground clearance, underbody protection, and specialized driving modes for various terrain types.
3. Transparent Hood Technology - Uses cameras to create a virtual view of terrain beneath the vehicle, displayed on the central touchscreen.
4. Adaptive Air Suspension - Can raise vehicle height by up to 30 mm for additional clearance and lower it at highway speeds for improved aerodynamics.
5. Hill Descent Control - Maintains a steady, controlled speed on steep downhill grades without driver braking input.

5 Facts About the GLC and Off-Roading

1. The GLC can ford modest water crossings with its 300 mm wading depth, though it still falls 200 mm short of dedicated off-road vehicles.
2. The Off-Road Engineering package includes a special “free” mode for the Electronic Stability Program, which allows for more wheel slip, beneficial when driving in deep sand.
3. While most GLC owners never take their vehicles off-road, Mercedes-Benz engineers test all 4MATIC models on the gruelling Schöckl mountain near Graz, Austria.
4. The GLC traction control system can make up to 150 calculations per second, constantly monitoring wheel slip and adjusting power distribution accordingly.
5. Despite its off-road capabilities, the GLC maintains a relatively low drag coefficient of 0.29, contributing to its fuel efficiency on highways.

Questions and Answers

What is the ground clearance of the Mercedes-Benz GLC with the Off-Road Engineering package?

• This SUV offers a ground clearance of 201 mm, which you can increase by an additional 30 mm with the air suspension system.

Can the GLC handle serious off-road trails?

• While it is more capable than many compact luxury SUVs, it’s best suited for moderate off-road conditions rather than extreme rock crawling or deep mud. It excels in light to medium difficulty trails, gravel roads, and snow conditions.

How does the 4MATIC system in the GLC differ from all-wheel drive systems in other SUVs?

• This system features intelligent torque distribution that can send power to the wheels with the most traction almost instantaneously, while many competitor systems react more slowly or simply lock into fixed power distribution ratios.

What is the Transparent Hood technology?

• This technology uses cameras to create a virtual view of the terrain beneath the front of the vehicle, displayed on the central touchscreen. This helps drivers navigate obstacles that would otherwise be hidden from view.

Does the GLC have low-range gearing like traditional off-road vehicles?

• No, it does not have a traditional two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing. Instead, it relies on its sophisticated traction control systems and torque-rich engines to handle off-road situations.

What special driving modes are available for off-road conditions?

• With the Off-Road Engineering package, the GLC offers specialized terrain modes including Sand, Rock, and Mud, each optimizing vehicle systems for specific conditions, as well as a general OFFROAD mode.

How effective is the hill descent control system?

• The Downhill Speed Regulation system effectively maintains a preset speed (between 2 and 18 km/h) on steep descents, allowing the driver to focus on steering rather than braking, making difficult descents much safer.

What type of suspension does the GLC use?

• It is available with either a standard steel spring suspension or an optional adaptive air suspension that can raise or lower the vehicle based on driving conditions.

Are there any special features for getting unstuck in difficult terrain?

• Yes, the GLC traction control system includes a special “rocking” mode that can help free the vehicle if it becomes stuck in sand or mud by automatically applying and releasing the brakes while the driver modulates the throttle.

How does the 48-volt mild hybrid system help with off-road driving?

• The mild hybrid system provides an additional 20 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque for short bursts, which is particularly useful when climbing steep grades or traversing difficult terrain that requires extra power.