Mercedes-Benz GLC250 Problems

We asked Mercedes-Benz for an explanation and a spokesman told us that the GLC SUV tow rating has always been 2000kg, which is what is reflected in the company's technical documentation delivered with the car, and on the Australian website.

The overseas rating is 2500kg, which is what you may have seen on the German site.

The company doesn't adopt these numbers due to our local towing rules. As a result the towing rating for Australian-delivered cars is less.

Start by asking your Mercedes-Benz dealer for their assistance. Explain to them that you want to tow a caravan and that the factory towbar is not suitable. If they cannot help seek the help of towbar companies, such as Hayman-Reece. If might be a case of modifying an existing towbar to suit.

From the research, my pick is definitely the Benz. It's a development of the classy GLC wagon but with improvements including better suspension. The Benz costs a little more but there is stock in showrooms now so you should jump quickly if you want one.

The dealership has now sharpened the quote but most companies now only sell headlamps as complete units. Yours is among the highest of the hi-tech, including a set-up to turn the lights for corners, so it's costly.

You could go for a Mercedes-Benz GLC with similar features and save money. My choice — perhaps surprisingly — is the Jeep. Just make sure you find a good dealer.

I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t tow your boat; it has a towing rating of 2500 kg, and normally that means a towball load of 250 kg.

It’s the GLC by a clear margin. It’s completely new, more refined in all things from the cabin to the suspension, and better value. It gets The Tick from me.

For me, the standard ride in the GLC is already very plush. Air suspension will be a little better but perhaps drive the base car before you spend the extra.

You should take a test drive in the Mercedes GLC, which was runner-up in our Car of the Year judging. It's not as big as you might think, it drives as well as your C-Class does and is sharply priced.

Even Hyundai admits there are shortcomings in its Bluetooth setup so, although it works fine for you, perhaps you have not had the opportunity for a back-to-back test with 10 other vehicles including the super-impressive Mercedes-Benz GLC.