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Till not too long ago, Mercedes-Benz appeared keen to drag the plug on plug-in hybrids, so to talk.
The premium German auto model discontinued PHEV variations of the C-Class, GLC and E-Class with the transition to new generations of these automobiles, and it additionally dropped plug-in variations of the A-Class, as an alternative reserving PHEV energy for high-performance fashions just like the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz Australia cited ‘resistance’ to plug-in hybrids throughout that interval, insisting that new automotive consumers both wished combustion-powered automobiles or electrical automobiles (EVs) and nothing in between.
However fast-forward to at the moment, and PHEVs are all of the sudden again in trend. At least three fashions – the C-Class, GLC, and GLA – have gained a battery pack and electrical motor this yr, marking a big shift in technique for the three-pointed star.
This, the Mercedes-Benz GLC350e, is arguably crucial of the three hybrid arrivals. Not solely does it exchange the previous-generation GLC300e, however it additionally offers Mercedes-Benz a direct rival to PHEV variations of mid-size premium SUVs just like the BMW X3, Vary Rover Evoque, Lexus NX, and Volvo XC60.
Priced from $99,900 earlier than on-road prices, the 350e sits between the 200 and 300 within the sprawling GLC vary.
It makes use of the identical 150kW 2.0-litre engine and nine-speed automated transmission because the C350e sedan, however provides a much bigger 25.28kWh battery and punchier 115kW electrical motor. Regardless of the added electrical firepower, Mercedes-Benz says the GLC has the identical mixed 230kW/550Nm outputs because the C350e.
The opposite headline determine is a claimed electrical driving vary of 107km – a lot sufficient for the typical Australian commute.
Does that make the PHEV the decide of the GLC vary? And may it take desire over established rivals? We spent a day behind the wheel in Melbourne to seek out out.
How a lot does the Mercedes-Benz GLC value?
The plug-in hybrid GLC350e is available in $5200 cheaper than the GLC300, regardless of promising superior efficiency and effectivity, in addition to the opportunity of fuel-free motoring.
| Mannequin | Worth earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 4Matic | $89,000 |
| 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e 4Matic | $99,900 |
| 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic | $105,100 |
| 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic Coupe | $117,000 |
| 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic | $136,900 |
| 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4Matic Coupe | $141,900 |
| 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Efficiency 4Matic | $194,000 |
| 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Efficiency 4Matic Coupe | $200,700 |
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
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What’s the Mercedes-Benz GLC like on the within?
Ah, so that is what actual luxurious looks like.
Funds-conscious challenger manufacturers have turn out to be more and more adept at imitating ‘premium’ on a shoestring funds, however the inside of the Mercedes-Benz GLC demonstrates that appearances solely rely for a lot.
It’s not sufficient for an area to look premium; it has to odor, really feel, and sound premium, too. Mercedes-Benz has nailed that temporary with this specific mannequin.
Visually, Mercedes-Benz’s trademark waterfall sprint design nonetheless wows. The infotainment display screen is a pure extension of the central tunnel, whereas the encompassing components ooze class.
Our check car featured the usual black inside – a palette that may show oppressive when executed poorly. Nonetheless, the usual fitment of a panoramic sunroof brightens up the area to no finish, and customisable ambient lighting strips add a splash of color.
I used to be shocked to study that the ‘leather-based’ used liberally all through the cabin is in reality an artificial substitute, because it’s bought all the feel and ‘new automotive odor’ of the actual stuff. Elsewhere you’ll discover equally tactile wooden trim and putting metallic accents.
And chatting with that premium really feel, Mercedes-Benz has made certain to connect padding to the facet of the centre tunnel the place the driving force rests their left knee – a pleasant contact.
The seats likewise make for a nice expertise, providing glorious consolation and lateral help over lengthy journeys. Each entrance pews are heated and power-adjustable, whereas the steering column and headrests additionally transfer on the contact of a button. As such, there’s no excuse for failing to discover a appropriate driving place.
Nonetheless, seat air flow and steering wheel heating are absent within the GLC350e – each of which you’d anticipate to be customary, as is the case with the equal Genesis GV70 or Lexus NX.
Different cost-cutting measures are evident upon nearer inspection. All plastics under the belt line are arduous and scratchy, whereas the headliner is constructed of a comparatively pedestrian cloth. However for probably the most half, these surfaces go unnoticed.
All the inside panels are tightly screwed collectively, and I didn’t establish any gaps, squeaks or rattles.
Whereas cabin presentation and high quality each get a thumbs up, neither impress fairly as a lot because the know-how suite, headlined by a completely fashionable 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment system.
Shared by many present Mercedes-Benz merchandise, the upright tablet-style display screen is straightforward to make use of and loaded with helpful functions together with detailed navigation, YouTube, Amazon, Spotify, Apple Music, climate, information, and video games. Every app is well identifiable with massive textual content and picture labels, so that you’ll by no means get misplaced in search of one thing.
The identical will be stated of the local weather controls, that are completely situated on the base of the display screen, along with different useful shortcuts.
As customary, there’s each wired and wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is to be anticipated in a premium product just like the GLC. Those that favor to maintain their automotive cable-free can cost up utilizing a wi-fi charging pad situated below the centre stack.
Whereas the MBUX system is seemingly overflowing with performance, it by no means seems strained throughout heavy use – all menus are fast to load and the graphics of the display screen are unwaveringly crisp.
The display screen structure is comparatively set in stone, however plentiful car personalisation is obtainable through the person profile characteristic. By signing up for a Mercedes Me ID, house owners can modify the default settings for cabin lighting, local weather controls, the radio, and seat/steering wheel/mirror positioning.
Becoming a member of the Mercedes Me community additionally unlocks entry to related companies through the Mercedes-Benz app, which homes a powerful array of features together with car standing monitoring, service reminders, location knowledge, and distant car management.
Along with a state-of-the-art infotainment display screen, all variations of the GLC boast a 12.3-inch digital instrument show, in addition to a head-up show. The oblong instrument panel presents a large number of each conventional and futuristic layouts, though I opted for easy gauges separated by a customisable centre knowledge readout. As is the case with the MBUX unit, the standard of the visuals is solely elegant, and the display screen by no means seems cluttered.
I maintain the idea that screens don’t essentially make a automotive extra premium, however Mercedes-Benz mounts a powerful counter-argument with its present know-how suite. However by the identical token, so does BMW, an in depth rival that likewise excels within the tech division.
And there’s nonetheless room for enchancment in Stuttgart. For instance, the steering wheel is overcrowded with finicky touch-sensitive controls, and the horizontal shortcut bar under the infotainment display screen can be tough to function on the transfer.
One resolution can be to repopulate the sprint and centre console with bodily switchgear, however that may threaten the multi-purpose storage space located between the 2 entrance seats. The aforementioned cubby is a superb place to retailer drinks of all sizes whereas driving, and likewise serves as a tool charging hub.
Proper subsequent door is a deep centre console housing two USB-C shops and a detachable coin tray, whereas the glovebox and door bins are additionally spacious storage areas.
The second row is likewise sensible and roomy…until you’re seated within the center.
Outboard passengers are unlikely to have any complaints no matter their dimensions, as there’s loads of area and the seats are pillowy mushy.
Nonetheless, center seat legroom is impeded by a pronounced driveline hump within the flooring, and the modified centre backrest is rock-hard. Greatest to fold the armrest down and faux the GLC is a four-seater, then.
On this configuration, it’s very nice. The number of supplies stays premium, and storage choices are plentiful. Facilities embody twin USB-C shops, air vents, studying lights and a set of pop-out cupholders.
Need extra proof that the GLC350e is completely suited to a celebration of 4? Simply have a look within the boot.
Regardless of the introduction of a 25kWh battery on the rear axle, there’s nonetheless 620 litres of capability again there – sufficient for a pair massive suitcases. You’ll need to muscle them in although, because the boot flooring has been raised to accomodate the battery under. That pesky battery additionally robs the GLC350e of a correct spare tyre (changed by a restore equipment) any potential underfloor storage.
Regardless, the Merc is roomier than rivals. And the boot homes switches to fold the rear seats in 40:20:40 configuration, so you may entry extra space if wanted.
| Dimensions | Mercedes-Benz GLC350e |
|---|---|
| Size | 4722mm |
| Width | 1938mm |
| Peak | 1646mm |
| Wheelbase | 2888mm |
| Cargo capability | 620L (behind rear seats) 1680L (behind entrance seats) |
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
What’s below the bonnet?
Plug-in hybrid variations of the GLC are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 115kW electrical motor, the latter of which is fed by a 25.3kWh battery pack.
| Specs | Mercedes-Benz GLC350e |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol |
| Engine outputs | 150kW/320Nm |
| Electrical motor outputs | 115kW |
| System outputs | 230kW/550Nm |
| Battery | 25.3kWh lithium-ion |
| Transmission | 9-speed automated |
| Drive sort | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2316kg |
| 0-100km/h (claimed) | 6.7 seconds |
| Gas economic system (claimed) | 1.2L/100km |
| Gas economic system (as examined) | 8.8L/100km (Hybrid mode, empty battery) |
| Power consumption (as examined) | 24.2kWh/100km (EV mode) |
| Electrical driving vary | 107km (claimed, WLTP) 103km (as examined) |
| Gas tank capability | 62L |
| Gas requirement | 95-octane premium unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 28g/km |
| Emissions customary | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capability | 2400kg |
The engine and electrical motor mix to ship 230kW and 550Nm to all 4 wheels through the identical nine-speed automated transmission discovered proper throughout the GLC vary.
Whereas these outputs trump the GLC300’s 190kW and 400Nm, the burden of a 25.3kWh lithium-ion battery limits the GLC350e to a 6.7-second 0-100km/h dash – 0.5s slower than the previous.
Nonetheless, the GLC350e is ready to journey 107km on electrical energy alone, and it’s way more environment friendly than all different members of the combustion GLC vary.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
How does the Mercedes-Benz GLC drive?
Like different variants within the GLC vary, the GLC350e delivers on all its central guarantees.
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Given only a few hours to expertise the brand new plug-in hybrid, I instantly set about answering just a few necessary questions surrounding the recent powertrain: does the GLC350e supply significant electrical vary? How does it drive as an EV? And the way does it drive as a hybrid?
With the primary query in thoughts, I switched our check car into ‘Electrical’ mode from the outset. What adopted was a completely refined and enjoyable EV driving expertise.
As you’d anticipate, the GLC350e units off in silence. The electrical motor is barely audible contained in the cabin, and it delivers satisfactory energy in a easy method. Mercedes-Benz quotes a 0–100km/h dash of 6.7 seconds – hardly neck-snapping, however sufficient for the GLC350e to not really feel strained in city environments. And there’s at all times the choice to awaken the petrol engine by mashing the throttle when in want of a little bit additional oomph.
However in my expertise, the GLC350e is an SUV that encourages you to decelerate and odor the roses, moderately than race fellow commuters to the workplace. It’s a peaceable bubble by which to detach out of your worries.
These character traits will be attributed to plentiful cabin sound deadening, agreeable driver help programs, and the quietness of the powertrain. Even at freeway speeds the cabin stays serene, reinforcing the luxurious really feel of the GLC PHEV.
The adaptive cruise management system is straightforward to make use of and any suggestions you obtain from the lane centring characteristic is refined in nature.
A big chunk of our time with the GLC350e was spent both on the freeway or flowing nation roads – a recipe for sub-optimal electrical effectivity/vary. Nonetheless, it comfortably exceeded expectations on this necessary space.
We managed 103km of electrical journey earlier than the combustion engine kicked in – simply 4km shy of Mercedes-Benz’s official declare. And I have to stress, that’s on the decrease finish of what’s achievable within the GLC350e. As such, the overwhelming majority of drivers will have the ability to full their each day duties on electrical energy alone, whatever the highway situations.
Paddles behind the steering wheel can be utilized to regulate the depth of regenerative braking from ‘D-‘ (most intense) via to ‘D+’ (least intense) and ‘D Auto’. It’s price leaning into this technique as regen feels fairly pure within the GLC350e, and I discovered the D- setting to supply easy, immediate deceleration.
Placing regen braking apart, the GLC350e presents a complete of six devoted drive modes: Battery Maintain, Electrical, Hybrid, Sport, Off-Highway, and Particular person (engine, steering, and ESP customisation obtainable).
Given I spent the primary couple hours of the drive program draining the battery in Electrical mode, it was solely honest that additionally skilled the automotive as a correct hybrid. As a result of certain, you purchase a PHEV to make the most of its EV functionality, however there may even be instances when the petrol engine is compelled into motion e.g. throughout an extended highway journey.
On such events, the GLC PHEV stays an impressively refined, albeit now not silent mid-sized SUV. The turbo-petrol engine is quiet, easy, and freed from unwelcome vibration – an ideal match for the electrical motor it pairs with.
It additionally pulls strongly proper via the rev vary with out inflicting a fuss. And when left to its personal gadgets, the hybrid system transitions easily between energy sources, sustaining a composed and refined character.
The easy nature of the powertrain is complemented by very good journey high quality that takes the sting out of Australia’s imperfect roads.
Not like different members of the GLC vary, the GLC350e is fitted with self-levelling rear suspension to counteract the added weight of the drive battery housed below the boot flooring. The system offers an additional layer of cushioning on the rear finish, whereas additionally holding the automotive balanced over undulating sections of tarmac.
There’s room for enchancment, although. Maybe it’s greediness on my half, however the GLC350e would profit from an adaptive suspension setup akin to what’s provided within the GLC43 AMG, at the same time as a price possibility.
Nonetheless, the GLC350e clearly prioritises consolation, however it additionally handles nicely for a car of its stature.
Regardless of weighing simply over 2300kg, the GLC350e feels nimble and well-balanced. There’s not a lot in the way in which of steering really feel, however the wheel itself is straightforward to show and the all-wheel drive system offers glorious grip, inspiring confidence via corners.
So whereas it’s not a efficiency mannequin, the 350e nonetheless feels sporty and planted, with dealing with traits that trace on the potential of the AMG variants.
That sense of agility can also be felt in city environments. The GLC feels compact and straightforward to park, whereas its surround-view cameras are among the many greatest in market.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
What do you get?
The usual tools record for the GLC350e consists of an Avantgarde exterior package deal, which incorporates 19-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels, LED headlights, metallic paint, and privateness glass.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC200 tools highlights:
- 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels
- House-saver spare wheel
- LED headlights with adaptive high-beam
- Agility Management suspension with selective damping
- Aluminium roof rails
- Consolation Plus package deal – hands-free entry, keyless go, easy-pack tailgate, USB package deal
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Fingerprint scanner
- Panoramic glass sunroof
- Aluminium-look operating boards
- Energy-folding exterior mirrors
- Mercedes-Benz emblem puddle lighting
- Avantgarde chrome exterior trim
- Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror
- Diamond-patterned Artico upholstery
- Excessive-gloss black centre console trim
- Heated and power-adjustable entrance seats with four-way lumbar and reminiscence
- Illuminated door sills
- Leather-based-wrapped steering wheel
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Head-up show
- 11.9-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system
- Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wi-fi cellphone charger
- Satellite tv for pc navigation
- Ambient lighting
- Chrome inside package deal
- Twin-zone local weather management
- Privateness glass
The Mercedes-Benz GLC350e provides:
- 19-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels
- Aluminium-look facet steps
- Anthracite Lime Wooden sprint trim
- Dashboard and beltlines in Artico
- Consolation suspension with self-levelling
- Charging cable for home socket
- Charging cable for wallbox and public charging
- Tyre restore equipment
The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 provides (over GLC200):
- 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels
- AMG Line exterior, AMG bodystyling
- Upgraded braking system with massive entrance discs
- Physique-coloured wheel arches
- AMG Line inside
- Anthracite Lime Wooden dashboard trim
- Dashboard and beltlines in Artico
- Sports activities seats for driver and entrance passenger
- Multifunction sports activities steering wheel in Nappa leather-based
- Superior sound system
- Piano black centre console
The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 Coupe provides:
- Night time Bundle
- Sport suspension
- 20-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 provides:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Silver brake calipers
- AMG Styling Bundle – consists of Night time Bundle, Mercedes-AMG exterior, AMG lip spoiler
- AMG Journey Management suspension
- Rear-axle steering
- Warmth and noise-insulating acoustic glass
- Digital Mild Bundle with Adaptive Highbeam Help Plus
- City Guard car safety
- Tyre restore equipment
- Consolation Plus package deal – hands-free entry, keyless go, easy-pack tailgate, USB package deal
- AMG Actual Efficiency Sound
- AMG sports activities seats
- Driver Help Bundle Plus
- AMG black leather-based upholstery with purple stitching
- Augmented Actuality (AR) navigation system
- Burmester ‘3D’ sound system
The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Efficiency provides:
- 21-inch cast wheels
- AMG Energetic Journey Management suspension
- AMG Night time Bundle II with darkened grille, black chrome badging
- AMG Observe Tempo monitor knowledge logging
- AMG Driver’s Bundle
- Mercedes-AMG exterior styling
- Charging cable for home socket
- Nappa leather-based upholstery
- AMG high-performance composite braking system (with purple calipers)
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC protected?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC acquired a five-star ANCAP security score based mostly on Euro NCAP testing performed in 2022.
| Class | Mercedes-Benz GLC |
|---|---|
| Grownup occupant safety | 92 per cent |
| Baby occupant safety | 92 per cent |
| Weak highway person safety | 74 per cent |
| Security help | 84 per cent |
Customary security tools consists of:
- Adaptive cruise management
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- Blind-spot help
- Lane hold help
- Parking sensors entrance, rear
- Rear cross-traffic help
- Semi-autonomous parking help
- Pace signal recognition
- 360-degree cameras
- Tyre stress monitoring
Choosing the Plus Bundle on the GLC200 and GLC300 provides:
- MBUX augmented actuality for navigation
- Driving Help Bundle w/ Pre-Secure
- Energetic Lane Change Help
- Site visitors Jam Help
- Evasive manoeuvre help
- Inside monitoring system
- Anti-theft alarm
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
How a lot does the Mercedes-Benz GLC value to run?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is roofed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee.
| Servicing and Guarantee | Mercedes-Benz GLC |
|---|---|
| Guarantee | 5 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | 5 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 25,000km |
| Pay as you go service plan | As much as 5 years |
| Common annual service plan value | $1470 |
| Complete service plan value | $7350 |
That’s par for the course, however the identical can’t be stated of the service payments Mercedes-Benz expects clients to pay. A five-year GLC service plan prices a whopping $7350, which equates to $1470 per yr.
Against this, the Lexus NX, BMW X3, Volvo XC60 and Audi Q5 all value round $3000 to take care of over the identical interval, whereas Genesis doesn’t cost a cent.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability software
CarExpert’s Tackle the Mercedes-Benz GLC350e
Plug-in hybrids are all about flexibility, and the GLC350e delivers that in spades.
With a punchy electrical motor and greater than 100km of usable EV vary, it’s good for individuals who need a fuel-free commute however aren’t prepared to sacrifice the comfort of fast gas stops on an extended weekend highway journey.
And like different variations of the GLC, the 350e is quiet, snug, refined and sensible – precisely what most luxurious SUV consumers are after.
Then there’s the pricing – at sub-$100k, the GLC350e represents cracking worth in comparison with the GLC200 and GLC300, each of which now appear a bit pricey.
That stated, the PHEV nonetheless ain’t low cost. And it ain’t low cost to service, both.
So, certain, the GLC350e may be the decide of the vary, however potential consumers also needs to take into account equally completed options together with the Lexus NX450+ F Sport and Volvo XC60 Extremely T8.
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