2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe

header-image
Rating7.7

Ranked #9 in 

Compact SUV
Write Review
$51,650
Starting Price 

Year

Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on October 31, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Exceptional ride and handling

Expensive compared to its rivals

Standardizes a few driver-assistance features

Plethora of standard features

Cramped rear row

Refreshed infotainment system

Well-crafted interior with high-quality materials

Mediocre cargo space

Specs & Features

$51,650

price

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

horsepower

273 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

torque

9-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

2.0L 4cyl AWD 9A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe serves up a whole lot of smart in a stylish package. The GLC Coupe not only looks fast, but it also drives like a sports car thanks to its athletic stance, advanced suspension, and sports car inspired dynamics. A powerful turbocharged engine, exceptional passing power, and sterling sport handling are the hallmarks of the GLC 300 Coupe's impressive appearance. In addition, the car offers exceptional driving comfort.

The GLC 300 coupe is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a performance-oriented vehicle capable of running errands and shuttling the family while also enjoying the experience of driving.

Buying Advice

Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLC 300 Coupe in one well equipped trim to choose from in 2021. Despite the fact that the base factory version is more than enough to satisfy most of your performance and luxury desires, there are 10 additional upgrades available to further customize this already feature-rich Coupe. For motorists who desire more driving pleasure from their SUVs, there is an AMG version available.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

This year, Mercedes has standardized a set of essential features like a 360-degree camera system, rear cross-traffic alert, and self-parking. It competes with the likes of other performance champs like the Audi Q5 Premium Quattro, BMW X3 xDrive30i and Lexus RX 350. 

Features

There is only one trim level available for 2021's Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe. It will sell for $51,650, which represents a price increase of $2,700 over the current model. For the price being paid for this vehicle, the GLC 300 Coupe offers some very luxury and advanced features for its one trim level. 

As mentioned, it comes pre-loaded with a wealth of standard features like dual-zone climate control, power folding mirrors, rain-sensing automatic wipers, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display, 64-color LED ambient lighting, 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats, LED headlamps and taillamps and the list goes on. IN addition to these features, Mercedes is offering 10 optional packages to ramp up your GLC 300 Coupe. 

Trims

Base

MSRP (Manual)

$51,650

Key Features

KEYLESS-GO

 

Heated front seats

 

Power front seats with driver-seat memory

 

Power folding side mirrors

 

Remote Start via Mercedes me Mobile App

 

Power liftgate

 

Dual-zone automatic climate control

 

64-color LED ambient lighting

 

10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display

 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

 

Dual USB-C audio ports

 

Hands-free Bluetooth interface

 

12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display

 

19-inch 5-spoke wheels

 

Privacy glass

 

Power tilt/sliding sunroof

 

LED DRLs

 

LED Headlamps and taillamps

 

Rain-sensing windshield wipers

 

Anti-theft alarm system with remote panic feature

Which trim should you buy? 

Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLC 300 Coupe in one well equipped trim to choose from in 2021. Despite the fact that the base factory version is more than enough to satisfy most of your performance and luxury desires, there are 10 additional upgrades available to further customize this already feature-rich Coupe. For motorists who desire more driving pleasure from their SUVs, there is an AMG version available.

Fuel Economy
8.0/10

For buyers of luxury SUVs, fuel economy is probably the most important thing to look for, besides the performance. EPA mileage estimates for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe are 22 mpg in cities, 28 mpg on the highway. With its 24 mpg combined fuel economy, the luxury compact SUV offers impressive fuel economy. In fact, this is the lowest of the competition, however not by a wide margin.

Models

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe

2021 Audi Q5 Premium Quattro

2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i

2021 Lexus RX 350

MPG (City)

22

23

24

20

MPG (Highway)

28

28

29

27

MPG (Combined)

24

25

27

23

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

17.4 

18.5

17.2

19.2

Range (City/ Highway/ Combined)

365/487/417 miles

425.5/518.0/462.5 miles

413/499/447 miles

384/518/441 miles

Since it has the most powerful engine of the bunch, it is not surprising to see the Lexus RX 350 taking the last spot. BMW's X3 is the winner at 27 mpg with a combined driving case since the Bimmers are known to offer exceptional fuel efficiency.

Interior
8.3/10

The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe is pure luxury. A cabin setting that is fully immersive, spacious, and detailed, the GLC is designed to entertain and impress. Stylishly styled interior featuring a twin circular cockpit in the brands signature style. In addition to its looks, the car is exceptionally comfortable and technologically advanced, making it the kind of car that will please its owner and keep them coming back. Drive this interior and comfort-focused vehicle and feel at home on the road.

This vehicle features a spacious interior that accommodates five people, along with comfortable faux-leather seats. With plenty of legroom space and adjustable seats as needed, the car's interior features many amenities. Several new features are available in the 2021 model year including a power tilt steering wheel, anti-locking doors, a day-night rearview mirror, steering assist cruise control, an illuminated passenger vanity mirror, memory seats, and a panoramic sunroof. 

Models

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe

2021 Audi Q5 Premium Quattro

2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i

2021 Lexus RX 350

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

38.9/57.3/40.8

39.6/57.7/40.9

41.1/57.6/40.3

39.4/57.8/44.1

Rear (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

38.3/55.8/37.3

39.3/56.5/38.0

39.1/56.0/36.4

39.1/57.6/38.0

Cargo Volume (cubic feet)

19.4

25.1

28.7

18.4

Audi Q5 offers one of the largest interiors in the segment compared with its competitors. BMW's X3 Xdrive30, however, is fiercely competitive with the Audi Q5 premium Quattro on the seating aspect. Although the GLC 300 Coupe offers ample cargo space, the seating room is balanced. 

Standard interior features of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe include:

  • Heated front seats
  • Power front seats with driver-seat memory
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • 40/20/40-split rear seats with power folding
  • 64-color LED ambient lighting
  • Illuminated entry system
  • Household-type 115V power outlet

How intuitive is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe’s Infotainment System?

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe packs an array of technology, such as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and voice control to make your driving life easy.

It is reasonably easy to operate the 10.25 inch-touch screen with MBUX. The Burmester premium audio system with 13 speakers makes for an excellent experience for audiophiles. And all the connectivity features are standard including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

All the standard Infotainment features are listed below:

  • 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display
  • Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX)
  • "Hey, Mercedes" keyword activation
  • Steering wheel with Touch Control Buttons
  • Touchpad controller
  • FrontBass system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • 13-sepaker Burmester premium audio system
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Exterior
8.3/10

Comparable to its stablemates, the exterior of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe is executed in an athletic way. Chrome accents throughout the grille and unique bumpers add sophistication, while the rear blends muscular tail lights with rectangular taillights. Featuring a smooth, sleek design, you'll love the way the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe looks. Designed for those who love adventure and urban sophistication, this SUV remains agile in any circumstance.

The 2021 GLC 300 Coupe's front fascia is embellished with a set of aerodynamic LED headlamps and turn signal indicators that also perform dynamic functions as a result of the Intelligent Light System. Mercedes-Benz signature typography is expressed in the large forms and smooth surfaces of this modern silhouette. The result is a design that is bolder and stronger than anything before it. In comparison to its rivals, it boasts plenty of style and modern attributes.

Models

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe

2021 Audi Q5 Premium Quattro

2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i

2021 Lexus RX 350

Curb Weight (lbs)

4,028 lbs

4,079 lbs

4,034 lbs

4,222 lbs

Length (inches)

183.3

184

185.9

192.5

Width (inches)

74.4

74.5

74.4

74.6

Height (inches)

64.5

65.3

66.0

67.7

Ground Clearance (inches)

5.0

8.2

8.0

8.2

Wheelbase (inches)

113.1

111.0

112.1

109.8

The Lexus RX 350 is the heaviest of the above-mentioned cars, as well as the tallest and the longest. It is 4,222 pounds in weight. While the Mercedes GLC 300 may appear compact in comparison with competing models, it has the best wheelbase in the class.

Some standout exterior features of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe include:

  • LED headlamps and taillights
  • LED DRLs
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Privacy glass
  • Power tilt/sliding sunroof
  • 19-inch 5-spoke wheels
  • Chrome diamond-block grille
  • Anodized roof rails
  • Brushed aluminium running boards

Safety
6.0/10

Mercedes-Benz values safety above all else, and this has been reflected in the core of any vehicle that it develops. The built-in structure of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is constructed from both aluminum and high-strength steel which gives it its strength and durability.Apart from that, the GLC 300 Coupe comes equipped with a set of driver assistance features such as Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist, Crosswind Assist and a pool of optional highly advanced systems such as Active Parking Assist, Adaptive High-beam Assist, Active Lane Change and keeping assist, Active Steering Assist, Active Parking Assist, Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function — all of these features will enrich your driving experience.

Standard and available safety features include:

  • Rearview camera
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Driver drowsiness detection
  • Active Brake Assist
  • PRE-SAFE
  • Available Adaptive cruise control
  • Available Head-up display
  • Available Surround-view parking camera system
  • Available Lane departure warning
  • Available Lane keep assist
  • Available adaptive headlights with automatic high beams

Competition
7.0/10

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs 2021 Audi Q5 Premium Quattro

Both of these midsize luxury crossover SUVs are interesting contenders. Each of them includes a wide range of features to help keep you organized.

Both models offer advanced driver assistance systems, stylish interiors, and innovative styling that makes every ride comfortable and enjoyable, so you can explore the world with confidence when you choose a GLC or Q5. Driving dynamics, however, are slightly better in the Q5 than they are in the GLC 300 Coupe. 

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs 2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i

These cars are both extraordinary and are equipped with the latest technology, while remaining fuel-efficient at the same time.

Having said that, the Mercedes GLC 300 Coupe SUV is more expensive than its competitor, which makes it much less convincing than the X3 which offers essentially the same driving experience. There aren't many differences between these two German studs aside from these.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs 2021 Lexus RX 350

A lot of people are impressed with the Lexus RX 350 and the Mercedes GLC’s dynamic styling and road presence.

Passengers will find both of them to be extremely comfortable and luxurious. Mercedes-Benz and Lexus offer some of the industry's best warranties, but Mercedes-Benz has an edge when it comes to features and safety, while Lexus has the best powertrain performance. Although Lexus is better in some ways, GLC 300 Coupe offers a better overall experience. 

Final Verdict

For drivers who are looking for a high-performing vehicle that is capable of running errands and taking the family places while also enjoying driving, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 coupe is an excellent choice. However, the rear row is a concern as large adults would have difficulty getting in and out. Other than this, there hasn't been a setback. If luxury is the prime concern, the GLC 300 would be the ideal choice. Although there are aspects of performance that can be overlooked with the GLC 300 Coupe, Audi ensures a more dynamic and engaging drive unlike that offered by its competitors in the SUV segment. 

Trims

    Base
    $51,650 onwards
    • Keyless entry
    • Led headlights
    • Power liftgate
    • Power-Folding side mirrors
    • Remote start

Compare to similar cars

Price

$51,650

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.65

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque

273 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$38,050- $40,050

Gasoline

7.36

221 hp @ 5500 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

7

Read Review

$46,100- $83,000

Gasoline

7.23

296 hp @ 4000 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

6

Read Review

$43,300- $56,500

Gasoline

8.15

261 hp

273 lb.-ft.

5

Read Review

$26,850- $42,450

Gasoline

7.59

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

181 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$40,000- $56,000

Gasoline

7.18

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

7

Read Review

$32,750- $43,600

Gasoline

7.44

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

5

Read Review

$43,000- $56,600

Gasoline

8.14

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,495- $31,395

Gasoline

6.14

180 hp @ 6400 rpm

175 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

5

Read Review

$38,400- $51,000

Gasoline

7.2

272 hp @ 6500 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.82 sec--
    2021 Audi Q5

    Ranked #1

    5.7 sec14.7 sec130 mph
    2021 BMW X4

    Ranked #2

    6 sec15.1 sec130 mph
    6.1 sec14.9 sec-
    2021 BMW X3

    Ranked #4

    6.2 sec14.9 sec126 mph
    6.3 sec14.8 sec140 mph

    2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      22 mpg28 mpg24 mpg17.4 gal.382.8/487.2 mi.
      27 mpg35 mpg30 mpg14.5 gal.391.5/507.5 mi.
      26 mpg33 mpg29 mpg18.5 gal.481/610.5 mi.
      25 mpg31 mpg28 mpg14.8 gal.370/458.8 mi.
      25 mpg28 mpg27 mpg18.8 gal.-
      2021 BMW X3

      Ranked #4

      23 mpg29 mpg27 mpg17.2 gal.430/498.8 mi.

      2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        186.3 in.74.4 in.64.5 in.5.9 in.113.1 in.
        204.3 in.78.8 in.69.9 in.7.7 in.120.9 in.
        191.3 in.73 in.66.4 in.8.7 in.108.1 in.
        189.6 in.74.9 in.66.1 in.7.8 in.112.5 in.
        188.9 in.76.1 in.65.6 in.8.4 in.113.1 in.
        188.8 in.75.9 in.68.3 in.8 in.112.2 in.

        2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          17.6 cu.ft.-49.4 cu.ft.
          18.5 cu.ft.116.1 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.
          31.5 cu.ft.177.4 cu.ft.148.9 cu.ft.
          19.4 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          39.2 cu.ft.113.9 cu.ft.73.4 cu.ft.
          32.5 cu.ft.109 cu.ft.75.7 cu.ft.

          2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            49.4 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.49.4 cu.ft.-
            57.6 cu.ft.22 cu.ft.62 cu.ft.-
            29.9 cu.ft.30 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.-
            52.9 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.52.9 cu.ft.-
            13 cu.ft.36.4 cu.ft.13 cu.ft.-
            63.3 cu.ft.29.7 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.79 ft.

            2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              3500 lbs.-4028 lbs.
              7716 lbs.1984 lbs.4550 lbs.
              5500 lbs.-3638 lbs.
              5291 lbs.1540 lbs.4015 lbs.
              5000 lbs.1814 lbs.4359 lbs.
              4409 lbs.1585 lbs.4035 lbs.

              Top Mercedes-Benz Cars

              2021 Mercedes-Benz Maybach

              Horsepower : 621 hp @ 4800 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 7 sec

              #1

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 16 mpg

              0-60 : 4.24 sec

              #2

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 16 mpg

              0-60 : 3.4 sec

              #3

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S Coupe

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.91 sec

              #4

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 S

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 3.41 sec

              #5

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 3.46 sec

              #6

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 14 mpg

              0-60 : 4.29 sec

              #7

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63

              Horsepower : 577 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 3.65 sec

              #8

              2021 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS

              Horsepower : 550 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 16 mpg

              0-60 : 4.8 sec

              #9

              2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 S Coupe

              Horsepower : 503 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.97 sec

              #10