A plug-in-hybrid version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is arriving in the second half of this year, looking identical to other GLCs.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e produces 313 horsepower, and we estimate a 70-mile range from the 24.8-kWh battery.
Pricing will be announced later this year.
Mercedes-Benz already offers five electric passenger vehicles in the United States, and their sales continue to rise. But Mercedes is also expanding its hybrid offerings, helping ease customers into the world of EVs before the transition to electric power begins to take full effect next decade. Now the German automaker has announced it is adding a plug-in-hybrid variant for its compact GLC-class crossover, the 2025 GLC350e. The new model arrives in the second half of this year.
The plug-in GLC packs a 24.8-kWh battery and a 134-hp permanently excited synchronous motor. This is paired with a 2.0-liter 201-hp engine, and while Mercedes didn't confirm any other details of the gas powertrain, we believe it is a detuned version of the turbocharged four-cylinder from the GLC300. All told, the hybrid system has a combined output of 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, which is routed to all four wheels and provides a claimed 6.6-second sprint to 60 mph.
Mercedes touts an approximately 81-mile electric range on Europe's WLTP test cycle, which we estimate will be around 70 miles using the EPA's testing measures. On electric power alone, the GLC350e will hit 87 mph; adding in the gas engine takes the top speed to 135 mph. Mercedes says an electromechanical brake booster allows the GLE350e to achieve the maximum 100 kW of regeneration under braking more frequently than with a purely hydraulic brake system.
The battery can recharge at a maximum of 60 kW via a DC connection, which Mercedes says allows for a full charge in roughly 30 minutes. AC charging capability maxes out at 11 kW, and Mercedes confirmed that the GLC will feature the CCS-style charge port for the 2025 model year. Starting next year, the company plans to switch to the Tesla-style NACS charge port.
The GLC350e looks identical for its gas-powered counterparts and the cabin includes the same 12.3-inch digital gauge display and 11.9-inch central touchscreen. Mercedes is loading the plug-in hybrid with standard content, including heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless start, and blind spot assist. Upgrading to the Exclusive trim brings the Burmester surround sound system and a birds-eye view camera, while the Pinnacle trim adds goodies like a head-up display, heat and noise insulating glass, and music and video streaming capability to the infotainment system.
The GLC350e will also come with "Mercedes me Charge," a service which combines charging stations from operators like ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo into a single network. This eases the payment process and allows owners to navigate to over 60,000 chargers nationwide, according to Mercedes, with Mercedes providing an RFID card to use at public charging stations. Pricing for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e will be revealed closer to its arrival at dealerships.