GLC 350 d ThereisnocompromisewiththeGLC350d.Ithas room for the family and versatility for adventure without concession on luxury or drivability. It’s a comfortable passenger car with an adventurous streak and head-turning presence on the road. The GLC 350 d improves upon the rest of its class with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine. It delivers 190kW of power and peak torque of 620Nm, which powers the vehicle from 0-100km/hr in just 6.2 seconds. It’s a step up from the four-cylinder variants available in the rest of the GLC range and makes the vehicle a more enjoyable drive. It’s fleet underfoot and the engine always has a bit more to give when needed. The GLC 350 d is best described as a ‘right-sized’ car. It offers plenty of room for four people and has 550 L room in the trunk (expanding to 1600 L with the seats down), but it doesn’t feel bulky on the road. Far from it, the 350 d feels sporty. Driving the winding roads of the Great Dividing Range, it manages the ascent comfortably and hugs tight corners. The 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic gearbox is swift and smooth, and never wanting for power or acceleration. The Intelligent Drive system is a gentle guiding hand. The GLC 350 d has the benefit of all of the cutting-edge Mercedes-Benz driver assist technologies,includingDistancePilotDISTRONIC with Steering Pilot, Active Brake Assist and the PRE-SAFE System. For the uninitiated, the Steering Pilot is an unobtrusive, yet perceptible, guide around long bends when the driver finds the correct line. In a straight line, it also actively helps the driver stay centred in the lane for their own and other road users’ safety. The car feels like it’s looking after its driver and passengers. It has a dual front airbag package, including at the side and for the head, as well as knee protection for the driver. The GLC 350 d is comfortable, like engaging with an old friend. But it’s not dull. The interior offers the luxury that Mercedes- Benz is famous for with plentyoflegandheadroom for front and rear passengers and a high-set position for the driver with good vision of the road, complemented by the 360-degree camera. The refined lines of the exterior set it apart from other compact SUVs, which often look bulbous and plain on the road. The GLC 350 d, available as a wagon and a coupé, has sexy lines that cut through the air. The vehicle is capable of towing 2,000kg, which further expands the vehicle’s range for exploration. The GLC 350 d is a popular member of the Mercedes-Benz range. It’s a refined ‘family’ car that both Mum and Dad will like driving. It’s comfortable, quiet and safe and an absolute pleasure to drive. WORDS James Perkins A class of its own MERCEDES-BENZ PARRAMATTA 24 WORKSHOP