Category Archives: SUV

AWD, Mercedes, Motoring, SUV

Mercedes GLC 300 e

Leave a comment

Premium quality at a premium price

By Bill McCarthy

In an SUV market that is heavily congested, the mid-sized Merc has plenty to offer in terms of technology, performance with efficiency and of course the prestigious three-pointed star on the grille.

Of course, that technology, premium build and badge come at a price, starting at £62,210 and rising to a whopping £72,210 for this flagship model.

This latest version is a bit higher and a bit shorter than its predecessor, but it certainly looks the part, featuring AMG Line Exterior package ‘Mercedes-Benz’ lettered perforated front discs and a riot of chrome touches, plus 20-inch multi-spoke AMG alloy wheels .

The interior screams premium quality and all versions are well equipped and goodies increase as you move up the range. This model features leather, heated and powered seats, 64-colour ambient lighting multi-function steering wheel and high-end sound system.

Like all Mercs it hosts myriad gadgets and gizmos, not least its clever voice activated MBUX entertainment system which now uses the latest augmented reality software and a comprehensive range of safety kit.

This system features a centrepiece 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and controls major functions like navigation, infotainment and smartphone connectivity.

On the road, the car is comfortable and virtually silent bar any intrusive tyre and wind noise, which is still barely whisper thanks to heavy insulation.

It is quick enough, hitting 60 in just over seven seconds, but is really built for comfort and families. It is a superb motorway cruiser whispering along at high speed and if you want a bit more fun, you can select Eco, Sport, and Hybrid modes. You can also run on petrol only to conserve battery for emission charge areas.

Obviously key when looking a this kind of model is the petrol electric hybrid combination:

Power train: The combination of a powerful two-litre petrol engine and an electric motor offering 340 hp is impressive. This setup strikes a good balance between power and efficiency, while the 31.2 kWh battery and fast charging capability allow for extensive electric-only commuting. An all-electric range of up to 80 miles and low CO2 emissions of 12 g/km are an attractive proposition for company car drivers as well towards reducing the environmental impact of driving.

Transmission: The nine-speed automatic transmission is slick and efficient and the gear shift stalk on the steering column frees up space elsewhere. I just wish it was a rotary change rather than the upward/downward movement.

All wheel drive: While most SUV owners may not frequently go off-road, but it is capable of handling rough erring and the 4MATIC system is handy when need to tow trailers, horseboxes, or caravans. It also adds traction during adverse weather conditions like rain or snow.

Equipment Levels: This is a premium brand and all models are well equipped with excellent safety and infotainment systems. As well a the usual bells and whistles, the entry AMG Line features include AMG alloy wheels, LED lighting, and advanced infotainment systems. Premium adds larger alloy wheels, advanced driver-assistance systems, augmented reality navigation, and a 360° camera, while Premium Plus adds features like the nighttime driving enhancing Digital Light feature and panoramic glass sunroof.

Space and practicality: The folding versatility in seating arrangements allows boot space to open up to huge stowage space, accessed by a powered tailgate. Other storage cubby holes abound.

Safety Features: Mercedes has always been at the forefront for safety and this model includes a proliferation of airbags,  autonomous braking, exit warnings, and pedestrian detection near crossings which significantly reduce the risk to both driver and pedestrians.

The GLC is technologically advanced and environmentally friendly option, but comes at a price. A price Merc fans are prepared to pay. They won’t be disappointed.

GLC 300 e 4MATIC AMG Line Premium Plus

Price: £72,210

Mechanical: 313bhp, 1,999cc, four-cylinder hybrid petrol-electric engine driving 4 wheels vvia a nine-speed automatic transmission

Max Speed: 135 mph

0-62mph: 6.7 seconds

Combined MPG: 565

Insurance Group: TBC

C02 emissions: 12g/km

BIK rating: 5 per cent

Warranty: 3yrs/Unlimited miles

electric, Motoring, Peugeot, SUV

Peugeot e-2008

Leave a comment

Electric SUV still feels like a winner

By Bill McCarthy

Peugeot’s compact e-2008 SUV has continued the firm’s electric revolution, with a facelift and an increase in power. The single electric motor, mated with a 50kWh battery now and a WLTP tested range of 251 miles.

There have been other tweaks and its bold, angular styling and extended grille are finished in gloss black on Active models, while Allure, tested here, and GT trims feature a body-coloured grille design. That is flanked by smart headlight clusters and flared air scoops below.

 The rear as well has an eye-catching look with a full width light bar housing the ‘cat’s claw’ style rear lights. 

Key e-2008 points include:

  • Electric Powertrain: The e-2008 features a single electric motor paired with a 50kWh battery. The power output has been increased to 156hp, providing improved performance.
  • Range: It offers a WLTP-tested range of 251 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for everyday use and longer journeys.
  • Exterior Styling: The SUV has bold, angular styling with an extended grille. Active models have a gloss black finish on the grille, while Allure and GT trims feature a body-colored grille design. The rear also features an eye-catching full-width light bar with distinctive ‘cat’s claw’ style rear lights.
  • Interior: Inside the cabin, there is a feeling of spaciousness and ample natural light due to the generous glass surfaces. The interior is of high quality, with soft-touch finishes and a sculpted dashboard. The e-2008 i-Cockpit has been updated with a new design for the 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and GT versions offer a 3D display. The layout and color of the display can be customized to the driver’s preferences.
  • Infotainment: The central screen includes a large digital touchscreen for controlling major functions such as sound, navigation, climate control, and smartphone connectivity. It features ‘piano’ key-style toggle switches and the familiar smaller multi-function steering wheel. Voice recognition is available for various functions, and there’s a smartphone charging plate.
  • Comfort and Space: The e-2008 is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate four adults with reasonable head and legroom. It offers ambient lighting, automatic air conditioning, heated front seats, automatic headlights and wipers, and a high-quality sound system.
  • Performance: While electric motors usually provide instant acceleration, the Peugeot 2008 appears to be slightly sluggish in this regard, taking just over nine seconds to reach 60 mph.
  • Charging: Two types of onboard chargers are available, including a single-phase 7.4kW charger and an optional three-phase 11kW charger. Rapid charging from 0-80% takes 30 minutes with a 100kW charger, or 7 hours 30 minutes with a 7.4kW charger.
  • Handling and Ride: Despite its SUV stance, the e-2008 is described as nimble, with good stability thanks to the underfloor battery position. The ride is slightly firm but comfortable, making it suitable for long-distance cruising.
  • Boot Space: The SUV boasts one of the largest boots in its segment, offering 434 liters of storage space, which expands to 1467 liters when loaded to the roof. It also features a modular split floor for additional storage options.
  • Safety: Peugeot vehicles come equipped with various safety features, including airbags, ABS with EBD, Emergency Braking Assistance, an exterior temperature indicator with ice warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

The e-2008 still offers a compelling package with a blend of style, practicality, and pretty efficient electric power, making it a competitive choice in the SUV market. The claimed electric range was almost achieved in perfect dry, sunny conditions and driving sensibly. but like all electric vehicles at the moment, when lights, wipers and heater are needed, it becomes more of a problem

Factfile

Peugeot e-2008 Allure

Price: £38,350

Mechanical: 156bhp, electric motor driving front wheels via 8-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 93mph

0-62mph: 9.1 seconds

Range (WLTP): 250 miles

Insurance group: 25E

CO2 emissions: 0

BIK rating: 2%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles