Comparison: Ground clearance Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. competitors 2025

Looking back over the generations, the GLC has seen a significant evolution in ground clearance. The first generation, which ran from 2015 to 2020, featured a ground clearance of 123 mm. This remained the same even with the facelift in 2019. However, it's the current generation (2022-now) that took a substantial leap, increasing to 187 mm. This increase in ground clearance underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to improving the off-road capabilities of the GLC while ensuring it keeps pace with the ever-increasing demands of its owners.

Within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLC's ground clearance puts it in a rather interesting position. It comfortably surpasses models like the Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Limousine and AMG GT Coupé, both of which languish at a paltry 81 mm. Even the stylish CLA AMG Shooting Brake and E-Class Limousine, at 83 mm and 85 mm respectively, can't hold a candle to the GLC. On the other side of the spectrum, while the GLC might not reach the lofty heights of the G-Class with its towering 270 mm clearance, it stands tall compared to more modest siblings such as the GLA's 134 mm and the EQB’s 154 mm, solidifying its role as a formidable option in the mid-range SUV category.

When we stack the GLC against its nearest competitors, the picture becomes even more intriguing. The Dacia Duster, with a ground clearance of 205 mm, edges out the GLC slightly, but the Merc more than makes up for it with its luxurious appeal and advanced features. The DS 7 comes close at 190 mm, still a tad above the GLC, but you lose out on the star-studded badge and the finesse of German engineering. Compare this to the Hyundai IONIQ 5's 160 mm and the MG Marvel R's 134 mm, and it's clear that the GLC stands substantially higher, providing better off-road prowess. Let's not forget the smart #1, which, with its 182 mm clearance, nearly matches the GLC but falls short on the bells and whistles that come standard with a three-pointed star. Even the Skoda Enyaq iV, which matches the GLC's 187 mm, can't quite match up when it comes to overall premium feel and heritage.