Having just replaced the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK crossover with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC (not yet available in the U.S. though), Mercedes-Benz->ke187 had to redesign the line of Genuine Accessories it offers with just about any model to fit the overhauled exterior and interior of the new SUV->ke145. The package was revised just in time for the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, where the Germans showcased it on the Euro-spec GLC->ke4968, which has already replaced the boxy GLK->ke2078 in dealerships across the continent.

As usual, the Genuine Accessories catalog includes numerous features that can be used to individualize a vehicle. Whether you want to create a unique model by combining visual-enhancing parts or to prepare it for a long vacation with additional storage boxes and racks, the Genuine Accessories program should have you covered. For an extra premium, of course.

Though these features will become available only in Europe for the time being, U.S. customers will also gain access to them once the GLC goes on sale in North America in 2016. Keep reading for a preview of things to come.

Continue reading to learn more about the Mercedes-Benz GLC Genuine Accessories.

Exterior

Most add-ons from the Genuine Accessories catalog are all about enhancing the vehicle's appearance. The first thing that catches the eye is the illuminated Mercedes star on the front grille. The emblem lights lights up when the car is locked and unlocked by remote control and when the doors or the tailgate are opened. Though it's not the kind of feature I'd order with my Merc, but I'm sure there are owners anxious to have a star glowing in the dark.

Speaking of shiny things, the crossover also sports high-sheen chrome trim elements in the air intakes, as well as a chrome strip on the tailgate, just above the taillights. Though they're not exactly noticeable due to the vehicle's silver paint, I'm sure they will provide a better contrast on other colors, especially black, blue or red.

The door handle recesses are also chrome-plated, but Mercedes says this feature was added to protect the surface against scratching. The same goes for the special 20-inch, five-spoke, light-alloy wheels that feature a high-sheen finish with black inserts.

The GLC also gained several black features to enhance its sporty appeal. Add-ons include a two-piece rear spoiler in grained black, high-gloss black mirror caps, and black hub caps.

Moving over to more practical features, the crossover can be equipped with a rear-mounted cycle rack that can hold up to three bikes or a payload of up to 56 kg (123.5 pounds). A roof box is also available. Depicted here is the medium-size box with a capacity of 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet), but Mercedes says smaller and bigger units are also available.

Interior

On the inside, the Genuine Accessories package is more about practicality than visuals. The bundle does include an illuminated door sill panel with lettering in white, but that's where it ends. To enhance storage room, the boot tub now features a raised edge, while its honeycomb structure makes it easy to attach an optionally available stowage box.

As for convenience, a support clamped between the posts of the front head restrains acts as a holder for various accessories. The feature comes with a folding cup holder and, judging by the size of the tray, it is wide enough to hold a large tablet or a small laptop.

Everything else remains unchanged, so the final configuration of the crossover's interior depends on the standard features that come with the trim you select and the options you check at the dealership.

Drivetrain

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Mercedes picked the GLC 220d 4MATIC to showcase its new accessories, meaning the crossover is powered by 2.1-liter, four-cylinder diesel rated at 168 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, the crossover needs 8.3 seconds to hit 62 mph from a standing start before reaching a top speed of 130 mph.

Of course, the Genuine Accessories catalog is also available for the GLC 250 4MATIC, powered by a turbocharged, 2.0-liter, gasoline four-banger. Motivation comes from 208 horses and 258 pound-feet of twist, which return a 0-to-62 mph sprint of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 138 mph.

While the diesel isn't likely to cross the pond to the U.S., a U.S.-spec version of the 250 4MATIC will hit American dealerships in 2016.

Prices

Mercedes-Benz has yet to release pricing for the Genuine Accessories, but we should know more by the end of the year. In any case, the base GLC starts from €44,506 (around $49,875).

Competition

2015 BMW X3

When it comes to compact premium crossovers, the X3->ke255 is an option you should consider. The German crossover is no stranger to accessories, as BMW->ke178 offers a wide array of features, including bicycle racks, sporty wheels, an M Aerodynamics package, carbon mirror caps, clothes hanger, GoPro holder, and many more. Available with a wide selection of gasoline and diesel engines in Europe, the X3 starts from €42,150 (about $47,900) in Germany.

Find out more about the BMW X3 here.

2013 Audi Q5

The Q5->ke1666 can too be customized with various features. You can choose between off-road and sporty visual packages, loads of rim designs, and numerous transport and touring accessories, including roof boxes, ski and bike carriers. The current Audi Q5 retails from €39,300 (about $44,670) in Germany, but a redesigned version is expected to arrive in 2016. If I were you, I'd wait for the new model and the new accessories the crossover will get shortly after it hits dealerships.

Read more about the Audi Q5 here.

Conclusion

Customizing a vehicle may be about enhacing its appearance most of the time, but when it comes to crossovers and SUVs, practicality is equally important. Sure, not everyone buys an SUV for its hauling capabilities, but those that do, will also used it to travel long distances and take long vacations. Traveling and vacation means there's a lot of stuff to carry around, and this is where a roof box or even a bike/ski carrier might come in handy.

Of course, the market is packed with aftermarket brands selling everything you need to make your SUVs a more capable rig, but if it's original parts you're looking for, Mercedes' Geniuine Accessories is the best option you have if you own a GLC. Sure, they're pricier than what you can get down on the corner, but fitting them won't be an issue and the quality should be as good as it gets.