The Mercedes-Benz GLC has been a staple of the lineup since its US debut in 2015. The luxury SUV is consistently one of the automaker’s top sellers, and it’s an admirable alternative to the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
Now, the GLC enters a new era with the introduction of the GLC with EQ Technology—the first fully electric version of the brand’s ubiquitous SUV for the US market. The new GLC will go head-to-head with other compact EVs like the Audi Q6, Porsche Macan, and the recently introduced BMW iX3.
The electric GLC features a powerful, efficient battery pack that delivers strong performance and competitive range. It also comes equipped with the latest tech, including advanced driver assistance and a massive Hyperscreen.
Design-wise, the GLC with EQ Technology looks… interesting, with styling cues like a fully illuminated grille sure to set it apart from its gas-powered counterpart. On paper, at least, Benz’s compact electric SUV appears ready to take on its rivals at Audi, BMW, and Porsche.
Performance: Power & Efficiency
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The GLC with EQ Technology features a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 94.0 kilowatt-hours. In its most powerful configuration, it delivers up to 483 horsepower—20 more than the BMW iX3’s 463 horsepower. When equipped with the optional trailer hitch, the GLC also offers an impressive towing capacity of 5,291 pounds.
Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the GLC achieves a remarkable 443 miles (713 kilometers) of range on the generous European WLTP cycle—though this figure will likely be lower under the EPA testing cycle. With a maximum charging capacity of 330 kilowatts, it can recover up to 188 miles (303 kilometers) of range in just 10 minutes.
Riding on an optional Airmatic suspension borrowed from the S-Class, the GLC promises exceptional ride quality. It combines Airmatic with an intelligent suspension control system featuring a new Car-to-X function, which automatically adjusts damping based on upcoming road conditions. Potholes ahead? The GLC can detect them in advance and adapt the suspension accordingly.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Additional suspension upgrades include a ride-height control system that leverages Google Maps data to determine the optimal height for improved efficiency. For enhanced maneuverability, the GLC also offers optional rear-axle steering. At speeds below 37 mph, the rear wheels can turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels by up to 4.5 degrees.
As expected from a premium Mercedes model, the GLC is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Highlights include MB.Drive with adaptive cruise control and hands-free driving technology, as well as MB.Parking Assist with similar semi-autonomous capabilities.
Design: My, What a Big Grille You Have
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes loudly and proudly promotes the GLC’s massive new grille with an optional 942 illuminated points‚ including the central tri-star logo. First teased last month, the grille gives the electric SUV a unique look. Love it or hate it, it definitely stands out.
LED headlights come standard, while an optional Digital Light upgrade integrates a subtle tri-star emblem into the daytime running lights. The rear lighting mirrors the front with circular LED elements that stretch across the trunk lid, also featuring tri-star accents.
Design-wise, the GLC retains its familiar compact SUV proportions and sleek roofline. Depending on the trim level, you can find chrome accents throughout the exterior—on the grille, bumpers, window surrounds, roof rails, and more.
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Source: Mercedes-Benz
The electric GLC rides on a 117.0-inch wheelbase—3.1 inches more than the gas-powered version. That increase translates to improved interior space, with front and rear legroom growing by 0.5 and 1.9 inches, respectively. Headroom also sees a boost: 1.8 inches in the front and 0.6 inches in the rear.
Cargo space is generous, offering 20.1 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 61.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. And yes, there is a frunk, which adds another 4.5 cubic feet of storage.
Inside, the GLC features a vegan leather interior that’s fully certified by The Vegan Society. But don’t worry, you can still add leather. Mercedes also offers premium options like new Soft Torino leather and Nappa leather—available with the AMG Line Sport Seat package.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The centerpiece of the cabin is the massive 39.1-inch Hyperscreen, which spans the entire dashboard. This advanced display integrates over 1,000 individual LEDs and features fully customizable screens for both the driver and front passenger. It runs the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, enhanced with artificial intelligence support from both Microsoft and Google.
Despite its futuristic design, the GLC hasn’t gone fully digital—physical controls remain on the center console, steering wheel, and door panels, offering a tactile, user-friendly experience.
When Does the GLC EV Go On Sale?
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is set to go on sale in the US in the second half of 2026. While official pricing has yet to be announced, it’s expected to carry a slight premium over the standard gas-powered GLC, which starts at $50,800 for the 2026 model year.
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