The Mercedes GLC stands as a paragon of luxury SUVs, known for its elegance and innovation.
But for many, the pressing question is: “Does Mercedes GLC have a 3rd row?” This query isn’t just about extra seating; it’s about understanding the vehicle’s capability to blend luxury with practicality.
Today, we dive deep into the heart of the GLC to bring you a clear, concise answer.
So, let’s uncover the truth behind the seats and see what this luxury vehicle has to offer for those needing a bit more room.
Table of Contents
Does Mercedes GLC Have 3rd Row?
The Mercedes GLC does not have a third row.
The Mercedes-Benz SUVs that have a third row are the GLE, GLB, and GLS.
The GLS offers truly luxurious seating for seven adults, standard, and has a no-charge 6-seat option featuring power 2nd-row captain’s chairs with walk-through 3rd-row access.
Why Does Mercedes GLC Not Have 3rd Row?
You might wonder, with its reputation for luxury, why the Mercedes GLC doesn’t offer a third row of seating.
Let’s dive into the design philosophy and practical considerations that shape this stylish SUV.
Compact Luxury Over Spaciousness
The Mercedes GLC is engineered as a compact SUV, a category that typically prioritizes agility, performance, and advanced technology.
This vehicle is no exception, boasting a design that focuses on providing a luxurious, high-performance drive.
However, these features come with a spatial trade-off.
- Performance: With a robust 2.0-liter turbocharged engine pushing out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, the GLC is all about a dynamic driving experience.
- Luxury: It’s not just about speed; the GLC’s interior is crafted for comfort and style, with high-quality materials and the latest tech.
Seating Comfort: The 5-Passenger Configuration
Consider the spacious and comfortable cabin that currently seats five passengers.
It’s designed to maximize comfort and legroom, offering a premium experience for all occupants.
- Dimensions Matter: The GLC measures 183.3 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and 64.5 inches in height.
This size allows for a passenger volume of 102.9 cubic feet and a cargo space of 19.4 cubic feet.
- Comfort vs. Capacity: Adding a third row would necessitate a compromise in legroom, headroom, and cargo space, detracting from the comfort and premium feel synonymous with the Mercedes brand.
The Design Dilemma
The GLC’s sleek, sporty aesthetics define its appeal.
Integrating a third row would require a fundamental redesign, potentially compromising its distinctive look and feel.
- Aesthetics: The current design exudes a sporty elegance, something that might be diluted with a more cumbersome shape needed to accommodate additional seats.
- Functionality: It’s not just about looks; the vehicle’s performance and handling are tailored to its current proportions.
By the Numbers: GLC’s Specs Speak
Let’s look at the numbers that define the GLC’s comfort and performance, underscoring why a third row isn’t part of the picture.
- Vehicle Dimensions: With a length of 183.3 inches, a width of 74.4 inches, and a height of 64.5 inches, the GLC is sized for agility and urban maneuverability.
- Interior Space: The passenger volume stands at 102.9 cubic feet, with a cargo capacity of 19.4 cubic feet, balancing comfort with utility.
- Engine Power: The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, ensuring that performance is never compromised.
As we explore the GLC’s design and specifications, it becomes clear that its luxury and performance are carefully calibrated, with each element contributing to the overall experience.
While a third row might add numerical capacity, it would subtract from the qualitative attributes that define this compact SUV’s appeal.
So, when you admire the sleek lines and savor the driving experience of a Mercedes GLC, remember that its design is a deliberate choice, prioritizing a specific kind of luxury and performance over sheer size.
Which Mercedes Models Have 3rd Row?

In the world of Mercedes, luxury meets versatility across a range of models.
While the GLC might not cater to those needing an extra row, the Mercedes GLB, GLE, and GLS step up to the challenge.
Each of these models offers a unique take on the third-row seating, accommodating larger families or those who simply crave more space.
- Mercedes GLB: This subcompact SUV is the epitome of flexibility, offering an optional third row to welcome up to seven passengers.
Compact yet cleverly designed, it balances space and comfort.
- Mercedes GLE: As a midsize SUV, the GLE provides an optional third row, amplifying its utility and appeal to a broader audience without sacrificing the signature Mercedes-Benz luxury.
- Mercedes GLS: The GLS is the pinnacle of space and sophistication in the Mercedes lineup, offering a standard third row.
It’s a full-size SUV that doesn’t just accommodate more passengers; it does so in style.
Diving Into the Details: Comparing Dimensions and Performance
Each of these models brings its own set of strengths to the table.
Let’s break down the specifics:
Mercedes GLB: Compact Agility Meets Functionality
- Dimensions: At 182.4 inches long, 72.2 inches wide, and 65.3 inches tall, the GLB cleverly utilizes its space to provide comfort and utility.
- Interior Space: Offering a passenger volume of 111.7 cubic feet and a cargo volume of 22 cubic feet, it proves that good things come in compact packages.
- Performance: The GLB’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offers 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, providing a zippy yet efficient drive.
Mercedes GLE: The Midsize Marvel
- Dimensions: Stretching 194.3 inches in length, 76.7 inches in width, and 70.7 inches in height, the GLE offers more room to stretch out.
- Interior Space: It boasts a passenger volume of 111.4 cubic feet and a significant cargo volume of 33.3 cubic feet, making it a practical choice for various needs.
- Performance: Choose between a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a more robust 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, delivering power and smooth performance.
Mercedes GLS: The Ultimate in Luxury and Space
- Dimensions: The GLS dominates with a length of 205 inches, a width of 77 inches, and a height of 71.8 inches.
- Interior Space: A generous passenger volume of 143.4 cubic feet and a cargo volume of 17.4 cubic feet ensure that every passenger experiences the height of comfort.
- Performance: The standard 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine is impressive, but for those seeking more, a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged eight-cylinder engine is available, both promising exhilarating performance.
The Verdict: More Than Just a Third Row
When choosing a Mercedes with a third row, it’s about more than just extra seats.
It’s about experiencing the journey in a way that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Each of these models—GLB, GLE, and GLS—offers a unique blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, space, and performance.
Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on an adventure, there’s a Mercedes that fits your need for space and sophistication.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our journey into the world of the Mercedes GLC and its seating capabilities, it’s clear that while the GLC may not offer a third row, its design is a deliberate choice to maximize luxury, performance, and technological innovation for five passengers.
The absence of a third row is not a drawback but rather a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and comfort in its compact SUV range.
However, for those in pursuit of more space, the Mercedes GLB, GLE, and GLS models stand ready to accommodate with their own versions of third-row seating, each offering a unique blend of luxury, space, and performance.
In the realm of luxury vehicles, the right choice is about aligning a car’s features with your lifestyle needs.
Whether you prioritize sleek design and agility or space and versatility, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of options to suit your preferences.
