Mercedes GLC - official pictures

The new Mercedes GLC replaces the GLK in the line-up.

The GLC name refers to the C-Class platform that it's based on.

The GLC offers a lot more interior space than the C-Class asloon and boasts more off-road ability, too.

The interior includes the now-familiar pop-out screen from the S-Class and C-Class.

The new GLC is 4,656mm long, 1,890mm wide and 1,639mm high.

The GLC's main rival is the BMW X3.

Boot space is 550 litres, virtually identical to its rivals.

Fold the rear seats and you'll find a 1,600-litre load area.

Order the optional Air Body Control air-suspension and the boot lip can be lowered by 40mm.

All versions get four-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic gearbox from launch.

Five driving modes are available for the Off-Road version: Slippery, Off-road, Incline, Rocking assist and Trailer.

Legroom is on par with the E-Class, says Mercedes.

A more affordable rear-wheel-drive model will follow in 2016 for those who don't want to go off-road.

Mercedes says the UK models will be more fun to drive thanks to a heavier rear-wheel drive bias in the 4x4 system.

A GLC 350e plug-in hybrid will be available from December 2015.

The car will launch in the UK in November 2015.

The cheapest launch model returns an impressive 56mpg.