The Mercedes-Benz GLC, Merc’s global bestseller, has gone electric-first in its latest generation. It still looks familiar, but with one rather unforgettable addition: a massive illuminated grille. Pair that with a 39.1-inch touchscreen inside, and you’ve got an SUV that seems determined not to be ignored.
Highlights
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Launch model: GLC 400 4Matic with 483bhp and AWD
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94kWh usable battery, 713km (WLTP) claimed range
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0–100kmph: around 4.7 seconds (est.)
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330kW fast-charging, adds 300km in 10 minutes
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Giant illuminated grille with 942 LED dots
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39.1-inch Hyperscreen infotainment system
Key Details
The GLC 400 4Matic debuts with two motors and a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle, ensuring efficiency when you’re not gunning it. It rides on an 800V electrical system, enabling rapid 330kW charging speeds, assuming you can find a charger fast enough. Mercedes says a 10-minute top-up can add 300km of range.
There’s S-Class-inspired optional air suspension that uses Google Maps data to lower the SUV on highways, and rear-wheel steering (4.5 degrees) to shrink its turning circle to 11.2m. Practicality hasn’t been forgotten either: 570 litres of boot space plus 128 litres up front, with a towing capacity of 2.4 tonnes.
Inside, the star is undoubtedly the 39.1-inch Hyperscreen spanning the dashboard. It runs multiple display ‘styles’, controls lighting moods, and is sharp enough to distract an astronaut. A panoramic glass roof with optional starry lighting adds flair, while a vegan interior is on the options list, certified by The Vegan Society, no less.
Outside, the illuminated grille steals the show. Tick the right box on the configurator and you get 942 LEDs that can wave hello and goodbye. Mercedes insists the design channels the old 600 Pullman and W126, but most will just see a very big, very bright GLC.
Summary
The new Mercedes GLC arrives as a full EV with range and charging speeds to rival BMW’s iX3, wrapped in familiar SUV styling with a flashy grille and giant screen. With 483bhp on tap and more practicality than its EQ predecessors, this could be the model that carries Mercedes’ electric ambitions into the mainstream.
