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Five years into its creation, the pervasive, Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is one of the most widespread players in the premium compact crossovers game. Due for a sprucing stimulant, its tardiness is better than ever as a new GLC is among us. However, for as much we like change, we also like things to stay the same and in the case of the GLC where receipt was already a jovial apparentness, Mercedes had to tread carefully.

Taking a nip here and tuck there, the smooth lines divulge a revived antidote that fulfills a seamless, simplistic design that will hold up well over time.  Toting a new signature LED lighting design element and polished arches, our test subject with its upgraded 20-inch wheels supported a poise, zesty posture. The front fascia transmits a superior mask of sportier details that transfers through the rear as the updated LED taillight contour the body.

The interior wasn’t left behind during this update as we see an array of digital trends and large screen format displays. Utilizing a standard 10.3-inch touch screen display, the resolution is absolutely fanatic and can be controlled through voice activation, similar to Siri or Amazon Alexa. The $1250 Multimedia Package takes the Navigation option to new heights as we see a more animated display that overlays directional arrows to a live feed camera display. How awesome is that! In theory then, the systems functionality would be user friendly; however, being controlled through the center console touch pad, it can be fussy and distracting.

With technology constantly evolving, the $750 optional 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster is an unconditional treat. With a fully customizable display, the cluster is full of possibilities and is easily controllable through the newly designed touch sensitive steering wheel controls. Our sampled GLC 300 suited the illumined star badge well with its upscale, premium cabin – the raw finished wood trim brings in a delightful, elegant aroma surrounded by leather and contrasting metal finishes. The attention to details over the stainless steel buttons brings about a special quality oomph to the cabin space. While the GLC is considered a compact, its interior comforts say otherwise. Comforts from the rear seats offer a pleasant demonstration of leg, hip and head room for any abundantly tall passengers.

Following its dapper chic sheet metal, there is a completely new engine under the hood. Continuing down its 2.0-liter four-cylinder streak, the new turbocharged engine makes 255-horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Followed through an only available 9-speed automatic, the new system is swift in its performance without sacrificing too much fuel when it comes time to hitting the gas pumps. Although Mercedes hasn’t revealed the EPA figures, we’ve been seeing an average of 24-mpg combined during our weekly toil. While our scurrying little-ute arrived in rear-wheel drive form, it is also available with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system at an extra $2000.

Seeing 0-60-mph in about 6.0-seconds, the GLC 300 is pleasingly quick enough to get out of its own way.  The new engine develops low end torque that chirps in around 2000-rpms. With available drive modes from Sport, Comfort, Eco and Sport Plus, our tush enjoyed the luxuries of Comfort during our duration. It would almost seem the transmission took that memo a little too seriously as some of its transitions faltered to the relaxed sector – around town this little hiccup goes unnoticed, but when push came to shove we sense hesitation behind its gearing. Whereas the suspension didn’t receive the memo at all seeing that we felt more of the road than we would have liked – granted, we’re going to also chop that up due to the $1250, 20-inch wheels and High Performance Summer Run Flat Tires.

Given a breath of fresh air to Mercedes’ bread and butter of their crossover lineup, the spruced up GLC 300 is one to adore. Its fresh design, quiet interior, and gratifyingly charming new engine makes the anticipated wait well worth it.

VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS

Model: 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLC 300
Starting Price: $42,500
As Tested: $49,790
Color: MOJAVE SILVER METALLIC ($720)

PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 2.0-LITER TURBOCHARGED FOUR-CYLINDER
Horsepower/Torque: 255-HORSEPOWER / 273 LB-FT TORQUE
Transmission: 9G-TRONIC 9-SPEED AUTOMATIC
Drivetrain: REAR-WHEEL DRIVE
Fuel Economy: EPA RATED: UNLISTED
AS TESTED: 22.6-MPG COMBINED
Fuel Range: 400 MILES
0-60 MPH: ±6.1 SECONDS