Would a Mercedes GLC make for a reliable used SUV?
I am interested in getting a SUV or 4X4, something with a high seat position. I was interested in a Mercedes estate but thinking these will be low? I have been looking at the Mercedes GLC—would be looking at a used one with a budget of under £18. Would the petrol version be better for city hopping and are they reliable and worth it?
Asked on 17 February 2026 by gary goble
Answered by
Matt Robinson
We're big fans of both the C-Class and E-Class estates and would happily recommend either, but yes, they sit quite low. It's worth having a sit in a few, perhaps at a car supermarket, to see what you think. If you do go for a GLC, a petrol probably does make more sense for shorter trips, but you won't have masses of choice, as petrol versions of the GLC are firmly in the minority.
In terms of reliability, Mercedes often struggles in the reliability chart of the HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Index, usually hovering somewhere around the bottom. If that's a concern, you could look at an alternative like the BMW X3. If you want to see which SUVs we recommend you can find that here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/guides/suv/best-suv/
In terms of reliability, Mercedes often struggles in the reliability chart of the HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Index, usually hovering somewhere around the bottom. If that's a concern, you could look at an alternative like the BMW X3. If you want to see which SUVs we recommend you can find that here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/guides/suv/best-suv/
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