2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The GLK lives to see another day…sort of. The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz compact SUV does indeed continue on, though it’s now known as the GLC. So we grabbed a QuickSpin to see what’s changed besides the name.

Right away it’s clear styling has shifted directions. Rounded edges and sweeping lines bring it closer to the rest of the Benz lineup; though there’s just enough squared off features to keep that SUV image.

LAUREN MORRISON: “Mercedes calls this a fundamentally different product than the GLK and you can tell just by looking at it. The GLK had a very boxy look to it, but this GLC has a very sleek look riding down the road.”

JOHN DAVIS: The interior gets a brand image overhaul too. It now carries the familiar sport luxury minimalist look, while still providing top tier comfort and amenities.

Increases in every dimension over the GLK yield more rear seat legroom and total interior space. Weight, however, is down by nearly 200 pounds. It’s most noticeable at speed, where it hunkers down like a car, rather than floats like an SUV.

Getting things up to speed is a 241 horsepower turbo I4 mated to a nine speed automatic; this combo comes as the GLC300, currently the only offering in the U.S. The power felt plenty for commuting, which it will most certainly be doing a lot of. And despite some typical awkward shifts, the nine speed was mostly issue free. 4MATIC all-wheel drive will be an option, of course.

On sale now, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 stickers around $40,000, with 4MATIC adding $2,000 more.