China’s love affair with long-wheelbase versions of
existing cars is well known and documented. The latest model to follow that
trend is the Mercedes-Benz GLC, which was already available in China in a
“normal” wheelbase like in the rest of the world.
The market asked for a longer GLC, however, and the
automaker delivered. First seen in leaked photos earlier this year, the
Mercedes-Benz GLC L is now official. t looks just like any GLC, with
the exception of the side profile where a keen eye will notice the proportions
are a bit off. That’s because the distance between the axles has increased by
100 mm, making the rear doors longer in the process.
Overall, the SUV measures 4,765 mm in
length, 1,898 mm in width and 1,648 mm in height, with a
wheelbase of 2,973 mm. That makes it very similar in size to its main
competitor, the Audi Q5 L. Unsurprisingly, rear seat passengers will benefit the most from the
longer wheelbase. As you the photos reveal, the GLC L offers significantly more
knee room and legroom for those sitting in the back.
Nothing changes when it comes to the powertrain
department, however. The engine lineup consists of three 2.0-liter turbocharged
gasoline engines sourced from the regular GLC. They offer 184 PS, 211
PS, and 245 PS. The engines are badged GLC 200 L 4Matic, GLC
250 L 4Matic, and GLC 300 L 4Matic, respectively.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC L is built by the Beijing-Benz
Motor Company (BBAC), a joint venture between Daimler and BAIC. BBAC also
builds the standard-wheelbase GLC which will continue production alongside the
longer version. The GLC L will reportedly cost RMB 10,000 (US$ 1,450) more than the
regular model.
