“The quality is as expected for a Mercedes, but other brands such as Audi or BMW are just as good.”
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC is an all-new model that replaces the GLK-Class. It has a roomier, lighter body, a more upscale cabin, and a new turbo four-cylinder and 9-speed automatic powertrain.
About the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC
1st generation GLC (X253), first U.S. model year; renamed successor to the GLK-Class.
Mercedes positioned the GLC as a compact luxury SUV that blends everyday utility with the comfort, technology, and design feel of the C-Class sedan. The core pitch was not rugged-truck toughness; it was quiet cruising, a premium cabin, efficient turbo power, and advanced driver-assistance technology in a size that works for daily commuting and family use. Against rivals, Mercedes leaned hardest on interior richness, smooth road manners, and a modern safety-and-tech image.
Mercedes positioned the first GLC as a smoother, more modern compact luxury SUV with a showpiece cabin and a strong set of safety features. The GLC 300 has rear-wheel drive, while the GLC 300 4MATIC adds full-time all-wheel drive; both have a power liftgate, a power-folding rear seat, and a 7-inch infotainment display.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The U.S. lineup uses a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a 9-speed automatic. The GLC 300 has rear-wheel drive, while the GLC 300 4MATIC has full-time all-wheel drive.
Styling
The GLC replaces the GLK’s boxier shape with a more rounded exterior and a more upscale cabin design.
Safety
Every trim has forward collision warning with automatic braking support, PRE-SAFE occupant protection, and Crosswind Assist.
Structural
The new GLC body is lighter and provides more passenger and cargo space than the GLK-Class, including additional rear-seat room.
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 9-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 9-Spd Touch Shift |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 241 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 20.5 cu-ft | 20.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC the first GLC model year?
Yes. The 2016 GLC is the first U.S. model year and the renamed, fully redesigned successor to the GLK-Class.
What is the biggest change for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC?
The biggest change is the move from the GLK-Class to the all-new GLC. The GLC has a lighter, roomier body, more rounded styling, and a more upscale interior.
What engine does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC use?
Every 2016 GLC uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC have all-wheel drive?
The 2016 GLC 300 4MATIC has full-time all-wheel drive. The regular GLC 300 uses rear-wheel drive.
What safety features are included on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC?
Every 2016 GLC has forward collision warning with automatic braking support, PRE-SAFE occupant protection, and Crosswind Assist.
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC.
4.3
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC
(449 reviews)
“I will them how smooth the driving is. I love the style of the exterior and especially the interior part. I love the quality of the leather seat. The features are great. There is more than one usb charging where you can charge all your gadgets. The vehicle is spacious and so with the trunk. In short, I love all the features of the vehicle.”
“The Mercedes GLC300 is a versatile crossover SUV packed with design, performance and features expected in cars above it's class. In addition, it includes a number of innovative safety features that are optional in other brands. All of this is packaged in a "right sized" classic body style fitting with the brand. And best of all it drives like a dream.”