The Mercedes-Benz GLC has long been one of the brand’s best-selling SUVs, a go-to choice for those who want something more polished. Now, it steps into a new chapter with the introduction of the fully electric GLC with EQ Technology.
This latest addition marks the first time the GLC has been offered as a pure EV in the US market, setting it up against serious competition such as the Audi Q6, Porsche Macan Electric, and BMW’s recently revealed iX3.
Powering the new GLC is a 94.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, which in its most powerful form produces up to 483hp—slightly edging past the iX3’s 463hp. It’s not just about straight-line power either; Mercedes has ensured that the SUV delivers practicality, with a towing capacity of 2,400kg when fitted with the optional tow hitch.
Range is another headline figure. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the GLC is capable of covering up to 713km on the WLTP cycle. While that number will almost certainly drop under the stricter EPA testing, it’s still an impressive figure on paper. Charging is equally quick, with the system supporting up to 330 kW, allowing the SUV to recover 303km of range in just 10 minutes.
The driving experience should be equally refined, thanks to an Airmatic suspension system borrowed from the flagship S-Class. This setup works with an intelligent suspension control function that uses Car-to-X communication to anticipate changes in the road surface. If there’s a pothole ahead, for instance, the car can detect it and prepare the damping in advance.
A ride-height adjustment system further enhances efficiency by using Google Maps data, while rear-axle steering (up to 4.5 degrees) improves agility at lower speeds.
On the design front, the electric GLC makes a bold statement with its illuminated front grille. Mercedes offers a version with 942 light points surrounding the iconic three-pointed star, giving the SUV a distinct visual identity.
Standard LED headlights can be upgraded to Digital Light units, which cleverly integrate the tri-star emblem into the daytime running lamps. At the rear, the lighting design mirrors the front with full-width LED elements and additional tri-star accents.
Dimensionally, the electric GLC has grown compared to its petrol-powered sibling. Its wheelbase now measures 117 inches (2,972 mm), 3.1 inches longer than before, which translates to more room inside. Front legroom is up by 0.5 inches, rear passengers gain an extra 1.9 inches, and there’s more headroom too—1.8 inches in the front and 0.6 inches at the back.
Luggage space is equally generous, offering 570 litres behind the second row and 1,738 litres with the seats folded. A small frunk adds another 127 litres of storage.
Inside, Mercedes has pushed the sustainability angle with a vegan leather interior certified by The Vegan Society, though traditionalists can still opt for Soft Torino or Nappa leather finishes.
The highlight of the cabin, however, is the sprawling 39.1-inch Hyperscreen that runs across the entire dashboard. With more than 1,000 individual LEDs, it offers fully customisable displays for both driver and passenger. The system is powered by the latest version of MBUX, now enhanced with AI support from Microsoft and Google.
Despite the tech-heavy approach, Mercedes has resisted the temptation to go fully digital. Key physical controls remain on the centre console, steering wheel, and door panels, ensuring the GLC maintains a familiar and user-friendly layout.
Safety and driver assistance are also at the forefront. The GLC comes with the latest MB.Drive suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and hands-free driving functions, alongside MB.Parking Assist with semi-autonomous capability.
Set to arrive in the US market in the second half of 2026, the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology represents the next stage in Mercedes’ electrification journey.
