The 2020 Mercedes GLC lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average brake wear and check engine light issues reported. At $28,375 to $68,125, it’s expensive, but worth the money if you’re in the market for a luxurious small SUV.
Is the 2020 Mercedes GLC a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Mercedes-Benz GLC since it has a lot of technology and luxury features for a small SUV. Owner reviews praise the strong engines, safety features, along with the smooth suspension on rough roads.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are more luxurious than other small SUVs, the seats are comfortable on long trips, but cargo space is smaller than average.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are not any serious mechanical issues reported, although repair costs are high if anything does break. Models from 2016–2022 are all decently reliable as they age.
- Performance 9/10 – The entry-level models offer reasonable power, while the AMG GLC 63 is an extremely fast small SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2020 GLC is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with active brake assist and a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist along with pedestrian detection.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 24 MPG, giving 417 miles of range from the 17.4 gallon tank. Gas costs are $8 higher than average at $254 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2020 Mercedes GLC is more expensive than other small SUVs on the market, with high depreciation rates, lowering its overall value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mercedes GLC?
- Consumer Reports says the 2020 Mercedes GLC swaddles occupants in a very luxurious and quiet cabin, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Mercedes GLC at 4.1/5, enjoying the good fuel economy from the four-cylinder engine, but doesn’t like the poor warranty coverage.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the GLC a 3.9/5, praising the high tech features offered, but owners don’t like the relatively small cargo area for a compact SUV.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Mercedes GLC Have?
Common problems found on the 2020 Mercedes GLC include excessive brake wear, check engine lights, along with the stereo system freezing up. Overall, these problems are similar to some other small luxury SUVs, but repair costs are more expensive than average due to high parts and labor costs.
Excessive brake wear is the most widespread complaint from 2020 GLC owners, showing up at around 15,000 miles. The front brakes in particular, tend to wear down quickly, and have to be replaced sooner than on some other SUVs. Replacing the brake pads costs around $450, while new rotors cost over $1,000.
Check engine lights have also been reported by some 2020 Mercedes GLC owners at roughly 25,000 miles. You will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to read the codes in the ECU to determine the source of the problem. One of the most common sources is a crankcase ventilation valve failure, which costs over $1,500 to change.
The stereo system freezing up is another problem found on some GLC models within the first 1,000 miles. There are software updates available for the stereo system, which improves the reliability of it. Most dealerships will install software updates for free, while others charge around $100 for labor.
There are 18 recalls on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC, which is worse than a lot of other small luxury SUVs on the market from the same year. The most serious recall covers a potential fuel leak at the fuel rails and injectors. Mercedes will replace the fuel rail and injectors for free on affected models. Other recalls cover the rearview camera, crash sensors, and some software issues, which Mercedes will also fix for free.
How Long Will the 2020 Mercedes GLC Last?
A well-maintained 2020 Mercedes GLC can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other small luxury SUVs, including the Lexus NX. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than average, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,009 per year.
As a used 2020 GLC reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the oxygen sensor for $275, the power seat control module costing $550, along with the alternator, which costs around $1,250.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is excellent and includes the MBUX software paired with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, which also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a more powerful Burmester surround-sound system.
Standard safety technology is very good for an SUV and features:
- Rearview camera
- Blind spot monitoring
- Active brake assist
- Pre-safe to tighten seat belts and roll up windows in the event of a collision
- Driver drowsiness monitoring
- Vehicle exit warning
- Crosswind assist
Optional upgrades include:
- Pre-safe plus for rearward collisions
- Lane keep assist
- Route-based speed adaptation
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Parallel and perpendicular park assist
- Evasive steering assist
- Traffic sign recognition
- Pedestrian detection
- Head-up display
Is the 2020 Mercedes GLC a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 Mercedes GLC is a good value since it’s a great combination of advanced technology and luxury features for the money. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $28,375 to $68,125, making it more than an Acura RDX or Volvo XC60. When new, the price range was $42,500 to $84,100. Depreciation is faster than average, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mercedes GLC?
There are three main models of the 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC class offered from the entry-level GLC 300 through to the very strong AMG GLC 63. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while 4Matic all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
GLC 300 is the entry-level model with:
- LED headlights for enhanced visibility.
- Power liftgate for convenient cargo access.
- Power-adjustable front seats for personalized comfort.
- Heated front seats for added warmth in cold weather.
- MBUX infotainment system with intuitive controls.
- 25-inch touchscreen display for clear visibility.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration.
- Blind-spot monitoring for safer lane changes.
- Automatic emergency braking to help prevent collisions.
- Drowsy driver warning system to alert fatigued drivers.
- Optional packages for enhanced customization.
- Available additional driver assistance features.
- Heated steering wheel
- Optional self-parking system for ease of parking.
- Upgradable leather upholstery for added luxury.
- Enhanced technology and infotainment features available.
- Customization options can increase the final price.
AMG GLC 43 is a step up, adding:
- All standard features from the GLC 300.
- Sport-tuned air suspension for improved handling.
- Performance-enhanced transmission for dynamic driving.
- Sportier exhaust system for an aggressive sound.
- Extra special features exclusive to this trim.
AMG GLC 63 and AMG GLC 63S are the flagship models with:
- Includes all features available in lower trims.
- Upgraded brakes for superior stopping power.
- Mechanical limited-slip differential for enhanced traction.
- Variable torque distribution in the all-wheel-drive system for improved stability.
- Premium Burmester surround-sound system for an immersive audio experience.
- Exclusive high-performance features unique to this trim.
What Engines Come In the Mercedes GLC?
- The base GLC 300 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, it provides a combined fuel economy of around 24 MPG. This model can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in roughly 6.1 seconds, offering a smooth yet potent driving experience for everyday commuting.
- The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 ups the ante with a 3.0-liter biturbo V6 engine, boasting 385 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft of torque. It’s linked to an AMG-enhanced nine-speed automatic transmission and achieves a combined fuel economy of around 21 MPG. Performance-wise, it’s capable of a brisk 0-60 MPH sprint in just 4.7 seconds, catering to those who crave more sportiness and agility.
- For performance enthusiasts, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 provides a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, producing an astounding 469 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft of torque. With an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT nine-speed transmission, it registers a combined fuel economy of approximately 18 MPG. It boasts a remarkable 0-60 MPH time of 3.8 seconds, blending luxury with race-level performance.
- At the pinnacle, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S pushes the boundaries even further with the same handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, but it’s tuned to generate 503 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft of torque. This model, also featuring the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT nine-speed transmission, offers a combined fuel economy near 18 MPG and achieves an impressive 0-60 MPH in a lightning-fast 3.6 seconds, presenting the ultimate in performance and speed within the GLC range.
What Colors Does the Mercedes GLC Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mercedes GLC?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC sets a high standard for comfort, making it a top choice for drivers who prioritize luxury and a plush riding experience. From the moment you step inside, the GLC embraces you with meticulously crafted, high-quality materials and a cabin designed to deliver tranquility and sophistication. The seats are upholstered with a premium MB-Tex synthetic leather that offers durability and comfort, while genuine leather is available for those who prefer an even more luxurious touch. Both front seats come standard with power adjustability so drivers and passengers can tailor their seating positions with precision, providing optimal comfort even on longer drives.
One of the standout features is the GLC’s optional Air Body Control suspension, which significantly enhances ride comfort by adeptly absorbing road imperfections, delivering a serene driving experience reminiscent of gliding. Furthermore, the cabin is commendably quiet, thanks to sound-deadening materials that insulate passengers from road noise and vibration, creating a peaceful atmosphere conducive to relaxation or conversation.
Space-wise, the GLC does not disappoint. It offers ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear, accommodating adults of all sizes without issue. The rear seats are equally supportive and comfortable, making it an ideal choice for families or those often transporting passengers. Additionally, the THERMATIC dual-zone automatic climate control allows occupants to customize their heating and cooling preferences, maintaining a consistent and pleasant cabin temperature irrespective of the weather outside.
Beyond just physical comfort, the 2020 GLC also integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience. The infotainment system, featuring the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), is intuitive and user-friendly, allowing passengers to control entertainment and vehicle settings with ease, thus adding an element of mental ease and avoiding the stress of complicated controls.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mercedes GLC Have?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC, known for its luxurious build and sophisticated design, also offers ample storage solutions suitable for various travel needs. In terms of cargo space, owners are treated to 19.4 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats. This space is more than adequate for everyday items like grocery bags, small luggage pieces, or even a medium-sized stroller. For those needing additional room, the rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area to an impressive 56.5 cubic feet, providing enough space for larger items such as bicycles, large suitcases, or bulky sports equipment like a set of golf clubs.
Aside from the primary cargo area, the 2020 Mercedes GLC is thoughtfully designed with multiple smaller storage spaces throughout the cabin. The center console is spacious enough for personal items such as wallets, phones, or small tablets, and the door pockets are designed to accommodate items like water bottles or small umbrellas. Additionally, the vehicle includes a glove box for important documents or items needing to be kept within easy reach, and cup holders designed for both front and rear passengers. The rear seatback pockets also provide extra space for small items needed during travel. All these storage options combined make the 2020 Mercedes GLC not only a luxurious drive but also a practical choice for those who require both comfort and functionality.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC was introduced for the 2016 model year, and designed to replace the older GLK model.
2016: First model year for the Mercedes GLC with all new technology, upgraded cabin, and improved styling from the GLK.
2017: More powerful AMG GLC 43 model introduced, minor changes to available options packages.
2018: New GLC 350e plug-in hybrid model introduced, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added, and a stronger AMG GLC 63 offered.
2019: Standard heated front seats and a household outlet, optional off-road engineering package also offered.
2020: Improved MBUX infotainment system added to all models, and the four-cylinder engine is stronger.
2021: The GLC 350e plug-in hybrid model was removed from the lineup.
How Does the Mercedes GLC Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 Mercedes GLC is a nice small luxury SUV if you’re looking for an upscale cabin and smooth ride, but shoppers should be prepared for the high maintenance costs associated with owning a Mercedes.
The BMW X3 is a popular competitor available in the same price range. Steering and handling is more responsive in the BMW X3, while the Mercedes GLC offers a more upscale interior. We recommend the BMW X3 since it’s more affordable to own, but both are worth looking at to see which you prefer.
The Audi Q5 is another small luxury SUV, which is about $2,000 less. The standard all-wheel drive system in the Audi Q5 is better in the snow and dirt, while the Mercedes GLC has a more plush interior. We recommend the Audi Q5 since it’s cheaper to own long-term, but it’s worth testing both models since they are similar.
