The Mercedes-Benz GLC has been a standout in the luxury compact SUV market, but not all model years are created equal. Want to know which GLC years are worth your cash and which might leave you kicking yourself?
We’re taking a comprehensive dive into the GLC’s history, using data from NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and J.D. Power to highlight the best features and possible pitfalls.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which years to target and which to avoid when hunting for your perfect GLC.
Ready for a no-nonsense guide to GLC wisdom?
Let’s hit the road!
Table of ContentsShow
Mercedes-Benz GLC Generations
The Mercedes-Benz GLC burst onto the scene in 2016, redefining what drivers expect from a luxury compact SUV. This sleek newcomer, stepping into the shoes of the GLK, didn’t just raise the bar – it launched it into orbit.
What made the GLC such a game-changer? Picture this: cutting-edge safety tech, an interior that screams luxury, and engines that deliver both punch and efficiency. It’s the whole package, wrapped in that unmistakable Mercedes style.
Let’s break down the GLC’s family tree:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st Generation (X253) | 2016-2022 |
| 2nd Generation (X254) | 2023-Present |
Hold up – why does knowing about these generations matter? Simple. Each leap forward in the GLC’s evolution brought tweaks to design, tech upgrades, and performance boosts.
For savvy buyers and car enthusiasts, these generational shifts could be the deciding factor between “just okay” and “absolutely perfect.”
Mercedes-Benz GLC Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When it comes to picking the cream of the crop (or avoiding the lemons) in the Mercedes-Benz GLC lineup, we don’t mess around. Our rankings are based on a diverse array of factors:
- What owners are saying (straight from the horse’s mouth)
- How much you’ll shell out for annual maintenance
- Safety ratings (because who doesn’t want to feel like they’re driving a tank?)
- Consumer Reports’ reliability scores
- How satisfied owners are (according to Consumer Reports)
- NHTSA’s tally of recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
Imagine all these ratings coming together in one epic graph. Stay tuned – it’s coming.
We’ve sorted every GLC model year into three categories: the stars, the decent-but-not-amazing, and the ones you might want to think twice about. It’s like a traffic light system for car purchasing.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Generation (X253) | 2021 2022 | 2020 | 2016 2017 2018 2019 |
| 2nd Generation (X254) | 2023 2024 | N/A | N/A |
Don’t knock the “Neutral Years” – they’re like the reliable friend who’s always there but never steals the spotlight. Perfect for buyers who want a solid ride without the bells and whistles (or headaches) of the best or worst years.
Keep an eye out for those NHTSA recalls – they can tank a car’s dependability faster than you can say “lemon.” More recalls and grievances? That’s a red flag for potential trouble down the road.
Ready to see which years come out on top (and which ones belong in the penalty box)?
Let’s plunge in.
Best & Worst Years for Mercedes-Benz GLC 1st Generation (2016-Present)
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC
When the first-gen GLC rolled out in 2016, it was like Mercedes threw down the gauntlet in the luxury compact SUV arena. Elegant looks, tech that made gadget lovers drool, and performance that could put a grin on any driver’s face – it had it all.
But here’s the scoop: the 2021 and 2022 models are the golden children of the GLC family. On the flip side, if you’re shopping used, you might want to think twice about the 2016-2018 models.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022
Why are the 2021 and 2022 GLCs the cream of the crop? Let’s break it down:
Engine: A 2.0L turbocharged I4 that pumps out a considerable 255 hp. Paired with a 9-speed auto that shifts smoother than silk.
Fuel Efficiency: 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway. Not too shabby for a luxury SUV, right?
Tech: The latest MBUX infotainment system. Think augmented reality navigation and voice control that actually understands you.
Safety: Packed with driver assistance features that make you feel like you’ve got a co-pilot.
Reliability: Fewer headaches reported compared to earlier years. That’s music to any owner’s ears.
Bottom line? These models are the complete package – luxury, performance, and peace of mind rolled into one elegant SUV.
The Neutral Years: 2020
The 2020 GLC? It’s like the middle child of the family – not bad, but not stealing the spotlight either.
Sure, it had a few recalls (rearview camera glitches, headlight alignment problems, potential steering hiccups), but it wasn’t all despair and gloom.
You still got that punchy 2.0L engine, a fancy new steering wheel with touch controls, beefed-up safety features, and the MBUX system. Not a bad deal if you can look past the recalls.
The Worst Years: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
Now, about those early years (2016-2019) – let’s just say they had some growing pains.
Engine troubles? Check. We’re talking fractured pistons and even complete engine failures. Yikes.
Other gremlins included fuel system quirks and brakes that squealed like they were auditioning for a horror movie.
And the recalls? Airbag issues, fire risks, headlights that seemed to have a mind of their own, and sunroofs playing escape artist. Not exactly what you want to hear about your luxury SUV, right?
Want the nitty-gritty? Check out the NHTSA recalls and complaints for the 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 GLC models. It’s quite the read.
Best & Worst Years for Mercedes-Benz GLC 2nd Generation (2023-Present)
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The second-gen GLC? It’s like Mercedes took everything great about the first gen and cranked it up to 11. Streamlined design, tech that feels like it’s from the future, and performance that’ll make you beam every time you hit the gas.
The Best Years: 2023, 2024
Looking for the finest of GLCs? The 2023 and 2024 models are where it’s at.
Here’s why:
Powertrain: Still rocking that 2.0L turbo I4, but now with a mild-hybrid twist. We’re talking 255 hp plus an electric boost when you need it. Efficiency and power? Yes, please.
Transmission: That smooth 9-speed auto is back, making every drive feel effortless.
Tech: The latest MBUX system is like having a genius co-pilot. Bigger touchscreen, augmented reality tricks, and voice control that actually gets you.
Safety: Driver-assist features that make you feel like you’re in a sci-fi movie. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping that actually works, and parking assist that’s almost too easy.
Interior: High-end materials everywhere you look, mood lighting that sets the perfect atmosphere, and enough luxury features to make you feel like royalty.
So far, these models are hitting all the right notes without any sour ones. It’s like Mercedes took everything they learned and poured it into these SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Resale Values
Curious about how well the GLC holds its value? Check out this graph showing average resale values for GLC models since 2016:
Conclusion
So, what’s the verdict on the best Mercedes GLC?
After crunching the numbers, the 2021-2024 models take the crown. They’re the whole package – cutting-edge tech, reliability, and heart-racing performance.
Steer clear of 2016-2019 models though. Those early years had enough quirks to give you headaches.
What’s your GLC must-have? Smooth cruising or tech overload?
Sound off in the comments – we’re all vigilant!
