The first images of Mercedes-Benz's new GLC-class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-class 2016

The first images of Mercedes-Benz's new GLC that replaces the squared GLK compact SUV have trickled on the web.

A rival to Audi's Q5, BMW's X3 and Volvo's XC60, the GLC was introduced today during a special event in Stuttgart, Germany, and will go on sale in Europe later this year, with North America to get the SUV in mid-November, at as of yet, undisclosed prices. 

And unlike the outgoing GLK, the new GLC will be made available to right-hand drive markets, including, of course, Britain. 

Mercedes-Benz GLC-class 2016

Linked to Mercedes' C-Class series – hence the change in the name from GLK to GLC, the SUV rides on a longer wheelbase version of the sedan's Modular Rear Architecture and will be offered in Europe with a starting lineup of three engines. 

These include the diesel-powered GLC 220d 4Matic with 168hp (0-62mph or 100km/h in 8.3 sec and 56mpg UK), and GLC 250d 4Matic with 201hp (0-62mph or 100km/h in 7.6 sec and 56mpg UK), and the petrol GLC 250 4Matic with 208hp (0-62mph or 100km/h in 7.3 sec and 43mpg UK).

Mercedes-Benz GLC-class 2016

In North America, the GLC will launch this fall as the rear-wheel drive GLC 300 and all-wheel drive GLC 300 4Matic, which should have the same 241hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four as the C300 sedan – we're still waiting for Mercedes' to release US specs. 

Mercedes-Benz GLC-class 2016

Additional powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid variant and AMG models, will follow later on.