Mercedes GLC SUV 2018 infotainment and interior review _ Mat Watson Reviews

The Mercedes GLC: A Luxurious SUV with Some Software Shortcomings

The Mercedes GLC is a stunningly beautiful SUV that exudes luxury and sophistication both inside and out. The exterior design is sleek and modern, while the interior features soft, man-made leather upholstery that feels top-notch. This attention to detail is reflected in every aspect of the vehicle, making it hard to fault for quality. Whether you opt for the standard equipment or upgrade to a higher trim level, the GLC offers an air of luxury that's unmatched by many other SUVs on the market.

One of the standout features of the GLC is its generous standard equipment package. Even the entry-level SE model comes with features like electric front seats, a reversing camera, and a power tailgate as standard. However, if you want to add some extra bells and whistles, such as LED lights and all-round parking sensors, you'll need to step up to the sport model or, even better, opt for the AMG line. The latter is the most expensive but also offers the best overall package, with cool styling upgrades and sportier suspension that make it a joy to drive.

Our test car had the optional B Stereo system with laser-edged door inlays, which added an enormous amount of class to an already stylish interior. The sound quality was exceptional, making this system well worth the extra expense. Another feature worth mentioning is the larger 8.4-inch Command Online screen that's part of a pack along with the B Stereo system. This larger display is a significant improvement over the standard 7-inch unit and makes a huge difference in terms of usability.

However, not everything about the GLC's infotainment system is entirely satisfactory. The Garmin Satinav, which comes as an entry-level option, has a whiff of the aftermarket about it and doesn't quite live up to the standards set by other manufacturers like BMW and Audi. The user interface can be a bit cluttered, with too many options at the top and bottom of the screen, making it difficult to navigate. The touchpad with pinch and zoom function is also fiddly to use, especially when trying to select menu items on the move.

Another issue with the GLC's system is that the menu shortcut buttons are located on the center console rather than being integrated into the touchpad and swivel wheel. This can make it frustrating to access certain features, such as the list of destinations in the satnav or text input fields. Swiping on the trackpad to choose menu items isn't always easy either.

Despite these software shortcomings, the GLC's command system is still reasonable and offers some nice features, like European map updates free of charge for three years plus an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot. This means you can listen to internet radio using the car's inbuilt systems without needing to connect your phone. However, it's hard not to feel that Mercedes could have done a better job with its software, especially when compared to the seamless and intuitive interfaces offered by other manufacturers.

Interestingly, it's worth noting that the GLC's predecessor, the GLK, was never actually sold in the UK. So, while this may seem like an unusual piece of trivia, it does highlight the complexity and nuance of the SUV market. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which model is right for you. Fortunately, our review has provided a comprehensive overview of the GLC's strengths and weaknesses, helping you make a more informed decision when choosing your next vehicle.