2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2025 vs 2024: Key Differences

Meta: Compare the 2026, 2025, and 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC to see how features, performance, and tech differ across each model year

The Mercedes-Benz GLC has maintained its position as a leading contender in the luxury compact SUV market. With each model year, Mercedes-Benz introduces refinements and enhancements to keep this popular vehicle competitive and appealing to discerning drivers. 

Model Overview and Lineup

2026 GLC Model Range

The Mercedes-Benz GLC continues to offer a comprehensive lineup that includes:

• 300 4MATIC SUV: The core model featuring the standard SUV body style
• 300 4MATIC Coupe: A sportier, more stylish variant with a sloping roofline
• AMG 43 4MATIC+ SUV: Performance-oriented version of the standard SUV
• AMG 43 4MATIC Coupe: High-performance variant with the coupe styling

2025 GLC Model Range

The GLC lineup maintained similar model variants:

• 300 4MATIC SUV: The mainstay of the lineup
• AMG 43 4MATIC+ SUV: Enhanced performance variant
• 300 4MATIC Coupe: Style-focused variant
• AMG 43 4MATIC Coupe: Performance-oriented coupe

2024 GLC Model Range

The model year offered:

• 300 4MATIC SUV: Standard SUV model
• 300 4MATIC Coupe: Introduced later in the model year
• AMG 43 4MATIC+ SUV: Performance variant
• AMG 63 S E PERFORMANCE: Top-tier performance hybrid (limited availability)

Exterior Design and Styling

2026 GLC Exterior Updates

The GLC features subtle yet noticeable design updates:

• Refreshed front fascia with revised grille pattern
• Updated LED headlight signature with more distinctive daytime running lights
• New wheel designs ranging from 18 to 20 inches, depending on trim
• Enhanced AMG Line appearance package with more aggressive styling elements
• New exterior colour options, including distinctive metallic finishes
• Standard panoramic sunroof across most trim levels

2025 GLC Exterior Features

The GLC maintained the design language established in previous years:

• Modern LED lighting with signature daytime running lights
• Standard 18-inch alloy wheels with optional larger sizes
• Clean body lines and proportions characteristic of Mercedes-Benz design
• Available running boards with illumination
• Power-folding side mirrors with memory function
• Chrome accents highlighting key exterior features

2024 GLC Exterior Design

The model represented a continuation of the second-generation design:

• Slightly longer and wider than the previous generation
• More aerodynamic profile with a drag coefficient of 0.29
• Standard LED headlights and taillights
• 18-inch wheels standard on base models
• Available AMG styling package with more aggressive bumpers and side skirts
• Similar overall silhouette to previous models, but with more refined details

Powertrain and Performance

2026 GLC Performance Specifications

The GLC offers a range of powertrain options:

• 300 models: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
• AMG 43 models: Enhanced 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with electric exhaust gas turbocharger delivering 402 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
• All variants feature a 9-speed automatic transmission
• Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive across the lineup
• Fuel efficiency ratings of approximately 10 L/100 km city and 7.8 L/100 km highway for the 300 models

2025 GLC Performance Features

The GLC featured similar powertrain specifications:

• 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine with 255 horsepower
• 48V mild-hybrid EQ Boost system adding up to 23 horsepower of assistance
• Standard 9-speed automatic transmission
• 4MATIC all-wheel drive standard on models
• Similar fuel economy ratings to the latest model
• AMG variants with enhanced performance tuning

2024 GLC Performance Characteristics

The GLC established the performance baseline:

• Introduction of the second-generation powertrain with mild-hybrid assistance
• Similar output figures of 255 horsepower for GLC 300 models
• AMG variants offering increased performance
• Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive system
• Slightly less refined driving dynamics compared to later model years

Interior Design and Comfort

2026 GLC Interior Enhancements

The interior represents the latest evolution in Mercedes-Benz cabin design:

• Premium materials throughout with enhanced trim options
• Available genuine leather upholstery alongside standard ARTICO man-made leather
• Multi-contour front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions
• Refined dashboard layout with seamless integration of screens
• Ambient lighting with 64 colours and enhanced lighting zones
• Increased sound insulation for a quieter cabin experience
• Available four-zone climate control system
• Improved rear seat comfort with optional heating

2025 GLC Interior Features

This SUV offered a premium cabin experience:

• ARTICO leather upholstery as standard
• Panoramic sunroof providing abundant natural light
• Ambient lighting with 64 customizable colours
• Heated front seats with memory function
• Available ventilated front seats
• Dual-zone climate control
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Split-folding rear seats for enhanced cargo versatility

2024 GLC Interior Design

The model established the current generation’s interior approach:

• Similar overall layout to later models, but with fewer premium touches
• Standard synthetic leather upholstery
• Available genuine leather as an option
• Dual-zone climate control
• Heated front seats
• Less extensive ambient lighting system
• Comparable passenger and cargo space to newer models

Technology and Connectivity

2026 GLC Technology Advancements

This SUV showcases the Mercedes-Benz latest technology:

• Next-generation MBUX system with enhanced voice control
• Dual 12.3-inch screens forming a widescreen cockpit
• Latest “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant with expanded functionality
• Enhanced augmented reality navigation
• Wireless smartphone integration and charging
• Burmester 3D surround sound system
• Over-the-air update capability for continuous improvement
• Advanced driver profiles with fingerprint authentication
• USB-C ports throughout the cabin

2025 GLC Technology Features

This luxury SUV offered significant technology features:

• Dual 12.3-inch high-resolution displays
• MBUX infotainment system with voice control
• Augmented reality navigation overlay
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available Burmester sound system
• Multiple interface options, including touchscreen and touchpad
• Enhanced smartphone connectivity

2024 GLC Technology Package

The model introduced many of the current tech features:

• Initial version of the dual-screen setup
• Earlier iteration of the MBUX system
• Standard smartphone integration
• Optional augmented reality navigation
• Wireless charging pad
• Less refined voice control system compared to newer models

Safety and Driver Assistance

2026 GLC Safety Features

This luxury SUV offers a comprehensive suite of safety systems:

• Enhanced Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control
• Active Steering Assist for semi-autonomous driving on highways
• Improved Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function
• Blind Spot Assist with exit warning function
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Pre-Safe Plus rear collision preparation system
• Active Lane Keeping Assist
• 360-degree camera system with enhanced resolution
• Available head-up display with augmented reality

2025 GLC Safety Systems

The GLC featured robust safety technology:

• Similar suite of driver assistance technologies
• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
• Active Brake Assist
• Blind Spot Assist
• Standard rearview camera
• Optional 360-degree camera system
• Attention Assist driver monitoring

2024 GLC Safety Package

The model established a strong safety foundation:

• Introduction of the current generation safety systems
• Standard Active Brake Assist
• Available driver assistance package
• Similar core safety features to newer models
• Less sophisticated camera and sensor systems compared to later years

Cargo Space and Practicality

2026 GLC Utility Features

This luxury SUV maintains practical aspects:

• SUV models offer approximately 620 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats
• Folding the rear seats expands capacity to around 1,680 litres
• Coupe models provide slightly less space at about 545 litres with seats up
• Power-operated tailgate with hands-free operation
• 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats for flexible cargo arrangements
• Additional interior storage compartments
• Roof rails for external cargo carrying

2025 and 2024 GLC Practicality

Both the older models offered similar cargo dimensions and practical features, with only minor differences in interior storage solutions and organization.

Off-Road Capability

All three model years feature:

• 4MATIC all-wheel drive
• Multiple driving modes through the DYNAMIC SELECT system
• Available Off-Road Engineering Package with additional underbody protection
• Hill descent control
• Adjustable ride height with the available air suspension
• Good approach and departure angles for light off-road use

Mercedes-Benz GLC: Which Model Year Offers the Best Value?

The differences between the Mercedes-Benz GLC models represent an evolutionary approach rather than revolutionary changes. The first model established the current generation’s core attributes, while the newer models have continued to refine the formula with incremental improvements to technology, performance, and luxury features.

The new model represents the most refined version with subtle design updates, the most advanced technology package, and enhanced comfort features. However, all three model years deliver the essential GLC experience: a premium compact SUV that balances luxury, technology, and performance in a versatile package.

For potential buyers, the choice between model years may come down to specific feature preferences, availability, and individual priorities. Each model year maintains the GLC position as one of the most compelling options in the luxury compact SUV segment, with its blend of German engineering, sophisticated design, and technological innovation.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*