First Look: 2025 Mercedes Benz GLC350e
It isn’t typical that we bring you a first look at a vehicle we’ve already driven, as the previous drive often serves as the first impression. In this case, we experienced the Mercedes-Benz GLC300e plug-in hybrid late last year in Europe, unaware of its future in America. As it turns out, the gas-electric GLC-Class is indeed coming to the U.S., rebranded as the GLC350e. However, it retains the same mechanical specifications as its European counterpart.
Performance and Efficiency
The GLC350e features the GLC300e’s turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 gas engine, coupled with a 134-hp, 325-lb-ft synchronous electric motor powered by a 24.8-kWh battery pack. Consequently, the total system output reaches an impressive 313 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Moreover, Mercedes claims the GLC350e can achieve up to 81 miles of EV-only driving range (at speeds up to 87 mph). Although this figure is calculated using the optimistic European WLTP test cycle, an estimated range in the mid-60-mile area remains competitive among plug-in hybrid SUVs in the U.S.
Charging Capabilities
One of the standout features is the ability to fully recharge that spacious battery via a 60-kW DC fast charger in as little as 30 minutes. The “Mercedes me Charge” system will be standard, allowing for easy integration with multiple public charging networks, providing access to around 100,000 chargers across America.
Driving Modes
The GLC350e is equipped with multiple driving modes: hybrid, EV-only, and off-road modes. Notably, the off-road mode operates in electric-only mode as well. As a result, the power delivery remains robust, although a more powerful variant of this GLC is available in some markets, offering increased output but at the cost of efficiency due to a stronger gas engine.
Luxurious Features
The added weight of the GLC350e comes with enhanced standard equipment, including heated front seats, a power-opening tailgate, navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and essential safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, parking assists, and automatic high beams. Three distinct trim levels are offered: Standard, Exclusive (which enhances safety features, audio upgrades, and ambient lighting), and the Pinnacle trim (offering onboard streaming services, a head-up display, and premium lighting).
Availability and Competition
Final pricing, range, and efficiency figures will be unveiled as the GLC350e approaches its on-sale date in mid-2024. This plug-in hybrid Benz is expected to compete strongly against rivals like Volvo’s XC60 T8 PHEV and Lexus’s RX450h+ plug-in hybrid—both of which feature less than 40 miles of electric-only range and lack DC fast charging capabilities.
