The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 stands as a beacon of enduring excellence in the competitive landscape of small luxury SUVs. For years, the GLC-Class has consistently garnered high recommendations, a testament to its sophisticated blend of comfort, performance, and timeless design. Even when faced with rivals benefiting from more recent updates or entirely fresh designs, the 2022 GLC 300 continues to captivate drivers who prioritize classic luxury and refined driving dynamics. This review delves into why the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 remains a top choice in its segment, exploring its key strengths and areas where it compares against the competition. For those seeking a luxury SUV that delivers on both prestige and practicality, the 2022 GLC 300 warrants a closer look.
The Cost of Ownership: 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Fuel Economy
Understanding the running costs is crucial when considering a luxury vehicle. For the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV with its 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine and 9-speed automatic transmission, estimated monthly fuel costs are around $191, based on 15,000 miles per year with a 55% city and 45% highway driving mix, and assuming a premium unleaded fuel price of $3.85 per gallon. This figure positions the 2022 GLC 300 slightly above the average midsize SUV in terms of fuel expenditure, highlighting the premium nature of its performance and engine technology. While a redesigned GLC is on the horizon, the current 2022 model provides a compelling blend of established luxury and performance that many buyers will find immediately appealing.
Edmunds Expert Rating: Why the 2022 GLC 300 Excels
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team, renowned for its rigorous evaluations, has awarded the Mercedes-Benz GLC a “Great” rating of 8.2 out of 10. This expert score reflects a comprehensive assessment encompassing track testing and real-world driving experiences. The 2022 GLC 300 distinguishes itself through its exceptional smoothness, refined driving dynamics, high-quality cabin ambiance, and an array of impressive technology and safety features. In a class brimming with strong contenders like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Porsche Macan, and Volvo XC60, the Mercedes-Benz GLC, particularly the 2022 GLC 300 model, continues to set a benchmark for luxury and overall driving satisfaction.
Performance Analysis of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 8.5/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 delivers confident performance that belies its four-cylinder engine. Road tests reveal ample power for highway merging and overtaking maneuvers. Specifically, the GLC 300 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 5.8 seconds, a notably quick time for a base engine in the small luxury SUV category, outperforming competitors like the Audi Q5. The seamless nine-speed automatic transmission further enhances the driving experience with smooth and rapid gear changes. Around town, the GLC 300’s light and responsive steering provides excellent maneuverability. Engaging Sport or Sport+ modes adds a welcome heft to the steering, without compromising ride comfort. The well-tuned suspension and robust brakes contribute to the 2022 GLC 300’s composed and assured road manners.
Comfort and Refinement in the 2022 GLC 300 Cabin
Rating: 8.5/10
Ride comfort is a standout attribute of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. It adeptly absorbs road imperfections, delivering a ride that is both stable and controlled. This level of refinement is exceptional for an SUV of this size, positioning the GLC 300 as a leader in its class for ride quality. The front seats offer extensive adjustability and plush comfort, accommodating a wide range of drivers. The cabin effectively isolates occupants from external noise, and the test vehicle exhibited no unwanted creaks or rattles, contributing to a serene and luxurious driving environment. The climate control system is both responsive and user-friendly, further enhancing passenger comfort within the 2022 GLC 300.
Interior Design and Space of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 8.5/10
The interior of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is characterized by its spaciousness and ergonomic design. The driver’s seat offers a wide range of adjustments, placing most controls within easy reach. Entry and exit are convenient, and rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, even behind taller front occupants. While the rear doors don’t open quite as wide as the front doors, accessibility remains generally excellent. The standard MBUX infotainment system is a highlight, offering intuitive menus and multiple control methods, including touchscreen, touchpad, steering wheel controls, and voice activation, all of which operate with impressive speed and responsiveness within the 2022 GLC 300.
Technology Features in the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 9/10
Technology is a significant strength of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. The vibrant 10.25-inch MBUX center screen displays sharp graphics and user-friendly menus. Optional integrated navigation and digital instrument cluster further enhance the tech-forward cabin. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide seamless smartphone integration with rapid boot-up times. The voice control system stands out for its accuracy and broad functionality, making it genuinely useful for various vehicle commands. Furthermore, the 2022 GLC 300 excels in driver assistance features. Adaptive cruise control maintains consistent following distances and reacts smoothly to traffic changes, while the lane keeping system provides effective semi-automated driving assistance in highway conditions. The surround-view camera system is invaluable for simplifying parking maneuvers in the 2022 GLC 300.
Storage and Practicality of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 7/10
Practicality, particularly cargo space, is an area where the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is less competitive. With 19.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, it offers less capacity than rivals like the BMW X3. Towing capacity is also slightly lower. Small-item storage within the cabin is adequate but not exceptional. However, the 2022 GLC 300 remains family-friendly, comfortably accommodating child safety seats in the roomy back seat, with easily accessible car seat anchors and tether points.
Fuel Economy of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 7.5/10
The EPA estimates the rear-wheel-drive 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 achieves 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Real-world testing largely confirms this estimate, with observed fuel economy of 25.8 mpg on a mixed driving route. While more powerful GLC variants offer reduced fuel efficiency, the 2022 GLC 300 strikes a reasonable balance between performance and economy for a luxury SUV in its class.
Value Proposition of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 8/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is priced competitively within the luxury SUV segment and delivers a compelling sense of value. The interior features premium materials and high-quality construction, reflecting German precision and attention to detail. Standard MBUX infotainment further enhances its value proposition. However, Mercedes-Benz’s warranty coverage lags behind some competitors. Despite this, the overall quality and feature set of the 2022 GLC 300 justify its price point, making it a strong contender in terms of value within the luxury SUV market.
The “Wildcard” Appeal of the 2022 GLC 300
Rating: 8/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 excels in delivering everyday luxury. Its standout interior design and exceptional ride comfort create a driving experience that is both enjoyable and stress-reducing. While not overtly sporty, the 2022 GLC 300 cultivates a sense of driving pleasure through its refined and comfortable nature, making it a vehicle that owners are likely to appreciate and look forward to driving regularly. The GLC 300 prioritizes the subtle luxuries that enhance daily driving, making it a uniquely appealing choice.
Edmunds Recommendation: The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300
Edmunds recommends the base 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 as the optimal choice for most buyers. Its combination of performance, luxury, and features provides a well-rounded and satisfying ownership experience. For those in colder climates or regions with frequent wet weather, the all-wheel-drive 4Matic version of the 2022 GLC 300 is a worthwhile upgrade. Regardless of the chosen configuration, Edmunds suggests adding the Driver Assistance package to equip the 2022 GLC 300 with adaptive cruise control and other advanced driver-assistance systems, further enhancing safety and convenience.
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Model Lineup
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offers three distinct trim levels, all accommodating five passengers: GLC 300, GLC 300 4Matic, and AMG GLC 43. While model designations reflect engine variations, standard and optional features are largely consistent across the lineup.
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Key Features:
- Turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque
- Nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- LED headlights
- Power liftgate
- 18-inch wheels
- Power-folding side mirrors
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable and heated front seats
- Driver’s seat memory settings
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Household-style 115V power outlet
- 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Mercedes-Benz MBUX interface
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Standard Advanced Driver Aids on the 2022 GLC 300:
- Forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Automated parking system
- Automatic high beams
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic:
Adds all-wheel drive (AWD) to the features of the GLC 300.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43:
- Upgraded turbocharged V6 engine producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque
- AMG-tuned all-wheel drive system
- 20-inch AMG wheels
- Sport-tuned air suspension
- Customizable ambient interior lighting
- Upgraded interior trim elements
Optional Packages and Standalone Features for the 2022 GLC-Class (including GLC 300):
- Driver Assistance package (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane change assist, enhanced blind-spot monitoring, enhanced collision avoidance braking)
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree surround-view camera system
- Leather or upgraded leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Wireless charging pad
- Head-up display
Edmunds Latest Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class News
Edmunds Tested: Electric Car Range and Consumption
2025 Mercedes-Benz SUVs: Updates on GLC, GLE and More
2025 Mercedes-Benz G 580 EV Tested: Edmunds Track and Range Review
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA EV First Ride: A New Benchmark for Small Electric Sedans?
