Mercedes-Benz is currently going through a revamp of its all-electric models, ditching the ‘EQ’ naming scheme to better streamline its lineup alongside its gasoline offerings. With that out of the way, it can finally introduce an EV to grow the GLC range.
This move comes long after Mercedes-Benz launched its first EV, the EQC, way back in 2019 with the intention of bringing it to the U.S. This compact crossover, roughly the size of the GLC-Class, was meant to increase Mercedes’s electric presence in North America. However, delays and the COVID pandemic meant it got pushed back and then canceled in 2021 before also being phased out overseas in 2023 without an immediate replacement.
Mercedes-Benz offers an alternative under the GLC EV hits the scene
Mercedes-Benz
The highly anticipated electric GLC is now in development, with several outlets spotting the EV variant heavily camouflaged during testing. It’s expected to adopt a new name as well, likely along the lines of “Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV.” The all-electric model is slated for a 2027 model year launch, which is quite a ways out for something that was supposed to arrive years ago. Fortunately, there is a temporary alternative.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Plug-In Hybrid is now available for sale to give customers a first taste of an electrified GLC. This compact crossover is powered by a 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery pack working in conjunction with a 2.0-liter turbo engine to deliver 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of near-instant torque. The large-for-a-PHEV battery gives the GLC 350e an EPA-rated all-electric range of 54 miles.
Not only is 54 miles twice the distance of the average commute in America, but it also means the GLC 350e Plug-In Hybrid tops the list when it comes to electric range in PHEVs, beating out the Toyota Prius Prime by ten miles. What’s more, all-wheel-drive is only available in the normal Prius hybrid, giving the Mercedes-Benz the edge.
Not the end of the road when the battery dies
Mercedes-Benz
Of course, since it’s a hybrid, the Premium-Unleaded engine fires up to carry you further when the battery is depleted. This makes it a practical choice, given the widespread availability of gas stations and the still-developing charging infrastructure. With slowing demand for traditional vehicles and automakers heavily investing in hybrid technology, this represents the next best step forward.
Final thoughts
Mercedes-Benz
We like the second-generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLC as a whole, regardless of its powertrain. That said, if you’re deterred by the prospect of owning a fully electric vehicle but still want the three-point star on the grille, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Hybrid is a viable alternative if you’re willing to pay the premium.
The GLC 350e Hybrid starts at $61,050, or about ten grand more than a gasoline model. While not cheap, the wallet stings less in the pockets of Mercedes-Benz customers.
