Mercedes-Benz has officially opened UK orders for its all-new electric GLC, priced from £60,350. The SUV marks a major milestone in the German manufacturer’s electrification roadmap and serves as the spiritual successor to the EQC, combining performance, range, and refinement in one elegant package.
Sitting above the current combustion-powered GLC, this new model — officially known as the GLC with EQ Technology — offers more power, longer range, and advanced digital systems. It spearheads what Mercedes calls the biggest product offensive in its history, as the brand transitions towards a fully electric future.
A Premium EV for Mercedes’ Most Popular Segment
The GLC nameplate is Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling global SUV, and the electric version has been designed to appeal to the same loyal audience. The firm’s leadership views the premium midsize SUV segment as “the most important” in its portfolio, blending practicality with performance.
The electric GLC enters the UK market as a rival to models like the BMW iX3, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Tesla Model Y. Its appeal lies in its familiar proportions, luxurious design, and cutting-edge electric architecture. Despite being a completely new vehicle underneath, the car retains the visual DNA of the current GLC — ensuring it feels both innovative and instantly recognizable.
Price and Trim Line-Up
At launch, the electric Mercedes GLC starts from £60,350 for the entry-level Sport trim, with prices extending up to £73,350 for the flagship Premier Edition. Five trim levels are offered in total:
- Sport – £60,350
- AMG Line – £63,900
- AMG Line Premium – £67,650
- AMG Line Premium Plus – £70,750
- Premier Edition – £73,350
This pricing represents roughly a 10% increase over the equivalent petrol-powered GLC, but it still undercuts several direct rivals while offering greater performance and range.
Powertrain and Performance
The new electric GLC 400 4Matic debuts with a twin-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing a combined 482 bhp and torque delivery suited for instant acceleration. The result is a 0–62 mph sprint in just 4.3 seconds, placing it firmly in the performance SUV category.
The 94 kWh lithium-ion battery provides a driving range of up to 406 miles on the WLTP cycle, depending on trim and wheel size. Future versions will offer up to 435 miles per charge, making it one of the longest-range EVs in its class.
Mercedes will eventually expand the lineup to include five power outputs, catering to both performance enthusiasts and long-distance drivers.
Charging and Efficiency
One of the GLC’s key highlights is its 800V electrical architecture, which allows ultra-fast charging up to 330 kW. This enables the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in around 20 minutes when connected to a high-power charger.
The car also supports 11 kW AC home charging, ensuring convenience for daily commutes and overnight top-ups.
Efficiency is further improved through an adaptive air suspension system. At higher speeds, the car lowers itself automatically to reduce aerodynamic drag, which in turn boosts range. The result is a refined driving experience and outstanding real-world efficiency for a large SUV.
Platform and Engineering
Underneath the bodywork lies Mercedes’ all-new MB.EA platform, purpose-built for medium to large electric vehicles. This platform allows optimal packaging, with the battery integrated into the floor and motors positioned for maximum space and balance.
The GLC EQ is 80 mm longer in wheelbase than the petrol version and nearly 100 mm longer than the outgoing EQC, resulting in improved cabin room and rear passenger comfort.
Suspension duties are handled by a multi-link setup at both ends. Mercedes has also integrated a new ‘one-box’ braking system, which blends regenerative and mechanical braking seamlessly. Drivers experience consistent pedal feel whether slowing down via regeneration or traditional friction brakes.
Optional rear-wheel steering enhances agility, cutting the turning circle to just 11.2 meters — impressive for a large SUV of this class.
Design and Styling
The electric GLC maintains the familiar proportions of its combustion sibling but adopts distinctive details to signal its new identity.
At the front, a striking ‘Iconic Grille’ design replaces the traditional open radiator, giving the SUV a futuristic yet elegant appearance. The closed-off grille integrates LED elements and a central Mercedes star, emphasizing its EV status.
Slim LED headlights, sculpted body panels, and a sleek roofline enhance aerodynamics, while flush door handles and aerodynamic wheels further improve efficiency.
At the rear, the wraparound tail-lamps and full-width LED light bar create a modern, high-tech impression that aligns with Mercedes’ latest electric design language.
Interior and Technology
Step inside, and the cabin exudes premium quality. The electric GLC runs on Mercedes’ latest MB.OS operating system, paired with a 12.8-inch central display and a digital driver’s cockpit.
Voice control and AI-based navigation ensure intuitive use, while over-the-air updates keep software features current.
Materials inside the cabin reflect Mercedes’ focus on sustainability, with recycled leather alternatives, eco-friendly trims, and natural fiber components used extensively.
Rear passengers benefit from increased legroom thanks to the longer wheelbase, while the boot capacity remains generous for a battery-electric SUV.
Driving Dynamics
The GLC EQ blends power and refinement effortlessly. The dual-motor system provides near-instant torque, ensuring swift acceleration, while its 4Matic system continuously distributes power between front and rear axles for stability.
In Comfort mode, the SUV delivers quiet, effortless cruising, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response and suspension damping for a more engaging drive. The air suspension smooths out imperfections, and the cabin remains whisper-quiet thanks to excellent insulation.
Mercedes engineers have tuned the suspension to strike a perfect balance between performance and ride comfort, making the GLC one of the most refined EVs in its class.
Mercedes’ CEO, Ola Källenius, describes the launch of the electric GLC as the “spearhead of the biggest product offensive” in the brand’s history. The car plays a central role in the company’s electrification strategy, bridging the gap between the existing GLC and future EV-only models.
By integrating the electric model into the same family as its petrol equivalent — rather than separating it under the EQC name — Mercedes signals a unified design philosophy going forward. It reflects the company’s vision of an electric future without diluting brand heritage.
Conclusion
The new electric Mercedes-Benz GLC represents the next evolution of one of the company’s most successful vehicles. With its blend of luxury, long range, and cutting-edge technology, it sets new benchmarks in the premium SUV segment.
Starting from £60,350, the GLC EV offers buyers a genuine alternative to both petrol rivals and high-end electric SUVs, combining everyday usability with Mercedes’ signature sophistication.
With up to 406 miles of range, ultra-fast 330 kW charging, and the latest MB.OS software, it’s clear that Mercedes isn’t just adapting to the electric era — it’s leading it.
