As Mercedes-Benz embarks on a comprehensive overhaul of its electric vehicle lineup, it is jettisoning the former ‘EQ’ branding in favor of a more cohesive nomenclature that aligns its electric models with traditional gasoline offerings. With this branding refinement in place, the luxury automaker is finally poised to expand the GLC family with a new electric variant.
This critical development comes years after the debut of the EQC, Mercedes-Benz’s first foray into the EV sector, introduced in 2019 with aspirations for a North American market launch. Designed as a compact crossover comparable to the GLC-Class, the EQC was intended to bolster Mercedes’s electric footprint on the continent. Unfortunately, a series of delays exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic culminated in its cancellation for the U.S. market in 2021, and its eventual phase-out in international markets by 2023 left a significant gap in the product lineup.
A Temporary Yet Impressive Alternate
The highly anticipated electric iteration of the GLC is now under development, with various media outlets having spotted a camouflaged prototype during its testing phases. While the new EV model is set to adopt an updated name—likely the "Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV"—the official launch is not expected until the 2027 model year, reflecting considerable delays in its rollout. Fortunately, consumers won’t have to wait entirely; a compelling alternative is already available.
Enter the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Plug-In Hybrid, which offers a glimpse into the electrified future of the GLC. This compact crossover is equipped with a robust 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery that works in tandem with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, generating an impressive 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The sizable battery affords the GLC 350e an EPA-rated all-electric range of 54 miles, effectively doubling the distance of the average American commute. This remarkable range positions the GLC 350e at the forefront of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), surpassing notable competitors like the Toyota Prius Prime by ten miles. Additionally, all-wheel drive is exclusively available for the GLC, further enhancing its appeal.
Hybrid Convenience Without Compromise
Given its hybrid nature, drivers will appreciate the seamless transition to the internal combustion engine once the battery’s charge is depleted. This feature ensures that range anxiety is minimized, especially considering the ubiquity of gas stations amid the still-evolving charging infrastructure. As traditional vehicle demand wanes, this strategic focus on hybrid technology signals a forward-thinking approach from automakers looking to accommodate diverse consumer needs.
Final Insights
Overall, the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC impresses, regardless of the powertrain configuration. For those hesitant about fully committing to an all-electric vehicle but yearning for the luxury associated with the three-pointed star, the GLC 350e Hybrid stands out as a legitimate and refined alternative—albeit at a premium price.
Starting at $61,050, the GLC 350e Hybrid carries a price tag approximately $10,000 higher than its gasoline counterparts. While this may represent a significant investment, it is a more palatable option for devoted Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts looking to transition to electrification without sacrificing brand prestige.
Source:www.autoblog.com
