February 2016 57 www.bahrainthismonth.com Crossover cars are often met with a mixed response and, while some may love the ‘best of both’ design, purists are quick to dismiss them as less capable than their bigger siblings. Whatever side of the fence you lean to, there is no denying the appeal of the Mercedes GLC300. Although smaller than GLE class, this sensational SUV packs more than enough punch to get your attention and, more importantly, has enough character to hold onto it. The upright, highly expressive front and the three-dimensionally configured radiator grille lend the GLC300 a progressive presence. On the side of the vehicle, precise feature lines and muscular surfaces produce an agile and imposing look. However, as my old mum says: “It’s what’s inside that counts.” Unsurprisingly, the levels of comfort and luxury in this premium crossover are superb. The interior impresses with fine finishes that include open-pore wood, machined aluminium and perforated leather, but the real highlight is the infotainment system. Navigation, telephone, audio, video and Internet are all part of the optional COMAND Online control and display system and information is shown on an 8.4-inch highresolution central display. Operation via the new touchpad is easy and intuitive, once you spend some time getting the hang of it. During my early youth, there was a TV show called Knight Rider – the highlight of which was a swanky talking car. Now, although the model I drove can’t hold a full conversation, it is capable of responding to voice commands to control the radio station, access navigation controls and make phone calls, which, as far as I’m concerned, is still pretty impressive and cool. Many automakers fit their new models with a range of driving modes to ensure you get the drive you want and need. However, when you’re dealing with Mercedes, the changes in performance and handling are dramatic when you flip the switch; so whether you’re a petrolhead or are looking for a family vehicle, this model ticks all the boxes. Four modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport and Sport+) alter the throttle response, shift points, steering effort and optional Air Body Control. A fifth ‘Individual’ mode allows you to create a mode of your own, even letting you set the transmission for manual shifting. I took the GLC for a spin around Isa Town to test how it performs in various scenarios and I was not disappointed. Straight highway driving is smoother than a jazz lounge pianist when you’re behind the wheel of this SUV, and handling around tight corners was fantastic. The dreaded Alba roundabout was the perfect place to utilise the full power of the 245bhp engine. Anyone who has driven by this roundabout knows how hazardous it can be to find a safe gap in the traffic. Luckily for me, the acceleration on the GLC was more than responsive enough to see me join safely. In my opinion, many premium SUV owners rarely test the full capabilities of their ride, perhaps out of fear of damaging it? This is pretty sad since the designers have gone to great lengths to ensure these models are as capable as they are beautiful and, make no mistake, the GLC is very capable off-road. Following the recent rain in the Kingdom, some dirt roads were demoted to puddles of slush that could be a real problem if you’re driving a sports car or a sedan. The GLC, however, made light work of these challenges thanks to impressive levels of torque and natural off-road capability. I highly recommend you test drive it yourself. Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454. MOTORING SUV WITH THE POWER TO SURPRISE! CHARLIE HOLDING This luxury crossover is proof that, sometimes, you can have your cake and eat it too. ALSO THIS MONTH: 67 RISE IN REGIONAL GROWTH 70 A DRIVE TO REMEMBER Mercedes GLC300
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