The new Mercedes-Benz GLC is now on sale in the UK, priced from £51,855.

The second-gen GLC is offered with a range of electrified engines, including mild and plug-in hybrids

Now in its second generation, the BMW X3 and Audi Q3 rival is offered with a range of electrified engines, including mild and plug-in hybrids.

The three mild hybrids use 48v technology and an integrated starter-generator to reduce emissions. They include a 258hp petrol and two diesels, one with 197hp and a 269hp version. Emissions range from 141 to 174g/km.

The range-topping plug-in hybrids take the form of a 313hp petrol with up to 550Nm of torque from launch and a 335hp diesel due later. Electric range is up to 80 miles and the onboard charger enables charging at a 7.4kWwallbox, giving a 10-100% charge in 2.5 hours. Prices for the PHEVs start from £62,210.

Key updates include a new four-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent rear suspension mounted to a subframe. The AMG Line specification features the sports suspension as standard while the plug-in hybrids all have air suspension and level control at the rear axle as standard.

Onboard technology includes a 12.3-inch LCD driver display and an 11.9-inch screen in the centre console, while a full colour heads-up display is available as part of the Premium Plus line.

New MBUX infotainment menus also debut, including a new off-road display as well as an optional ‘transparent bonnet’ camera view to assist with on- and off-road driving.

Exterior design changes focus on maintaining the GLC’s signature SUV look, while improving aerodynamics. The latest Merc also gets new-look headlamps, while digital light headlamps are included in the Premium Plus line and feature daytime-driving ellipses and intelligent lighting technology.

All models feature a new design of sports seats which come in Black Artico as standard with a non-cost option of brown or grey as an alternative. For the AMG Line Premium Plus, black leather is standard with a no-cost option of saddle brown or power red leather.

First UK deliveries start January.