We realise that take-up of the 3.0-litre, V6-engined GLC 350 d Coupe is likely to be low in Ireland, but the bigger engine suits the sportier personality of this model more than the entry-level four-cylinder units do. It brings the chassis to life too.
In the metal
We've talked about the design of the new GLC Coupe in our 250 d review so here we'll focus on the AMG line option as fitted to the 350 d test cars. It comes with sportier front and rear bumpers, larger alloy wheels and a diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome. This is undoubtedly the best-looking specification for the big SUV.
Inside, there's a sports steering wheel, unique instruments and trim, plus tasteful sports seats upholstered in a mix of Artico and Dinamica (man-made leather and suede alternatives).
Driving it
As mentioned in our review of the GLC 250 d Coupe, we reckon the chassis is a good one. The lower centre of gravity and moderately sportier settings (in comparison to the regular Mercedes GLC) make for a big SUV that is good to drive, though still very comfortable. It adds to that with impressive refinement. However, the 250 d's engine doesn't have quite enough grunt to make the GLC Coupe interesting to drive. The 350 d's does.
A power output of 258hp sounds modest enough, but check out that maximum torque figure - 620Nm is a lot of torque. It's enough to challenge the 4Matic four-wheel drive system if you're overenthusiastic with the throttle on the exit of tight corners and it's enough to make the GLC as quick as some hot hatchbacks. The ESP stability control keeps a tight rein on things so there's no fear of deploying all that output, but it reacts quickly, so there's no bogging down even if you're straddling the limits of adhesion. There's a little more adjustability in the chassis than there is in the equivalent BMW X4, making the GLC Coupe more satisfying to drive down a challenging road, too. And while mostly muted, the V6 diesel sounds more cultured than its four-cylinder sibling ever could. If you plan on driving your sporty SUV across country, and you enjoy avoiding motorways, then the 350 d should be top of your list.
What you get for your money
All we know for now is that the GLC Coupe should start at 'about' €60,000. Once Mercedes Ireland tells us more we'll tell you...
Summary
The 350 d is our pick of the new Mercedes GLC Coupe line-up, especially in AMG line specification. It looks good, sounds good, has loads of presence on the road and the V6 diesel engine gives the decent chassis the performance it deserves. Running costs aren't too much more than the 250 d model, either. This is the GLC Coupe at its best.
