Until recently, Mercedes-Benz seemed eager to pull the plug on plug-in hybrids, so to speak.
The premium German auto brand discontinued PHEV versions of the C-Class, GLC and E-Class with the transition to new generations of those vehicles, and it also dropped plug-in versions of the A-Class, instead reserving PHEV power for high-performance models like the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance.
Mercedes-Benz Australia cited ‘resistance’ to plug-in hybrids during that period, insisting that new car buyers either wanted combustion-powered vehicles or electric vehicles (EVs) and nothing in between.
But fast-forward to today, and PHEVs are suddenly back in fashion. No less than three models – the C-Class, GLC, and GLA – have gained a battery pack and electric motor this year, marking a significant shift in strategy for the three-pointed star.
This, the Mercedes-Benz GLC350e, is arguably the most important of the three hybrid arrivals. Not only does it replace the previous-generation GLC300e, but it also gives Mercedes-Benz a direct rival to PHEV versions of mid-size premium SUVs like the BMW X3, Range Rover Evoque, Lexus NX, and Volvo XC60.
Priced from $99,900 before on-road costs, the 350e sits between the 200 and 300 in the sprawling GLC range.
It uses the same 150kW 2.0-litre engine and nine-speed automatic transmission as the C350e sedan, but adds a bigger 25.28kWh battery and punchier 115kW electric motor. Despite the added electric firepower, Mercedes-Benz says the GLC has the same combined 230kW/550Nm outputs as the C350e.
The other headline figure is a claimed electric driving range of 107km – plenty enough for the average Australian commute.
Does that make the PHEV the pick of the GLC range? And should it take preference over established competitors? We spent a day behind the wheel in Melbourne to find out.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz GLC cost?
The plug-in hybrid GLC350e comes in $5200 cheaper than the GLC300, despite promising superior performance and efficiency, as well as the possibility of fuel-free motoring.
| Model | Price before on-road costs |
|---|---|
| 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 Performance 4Matic | $194,000 |
| 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance 4Matic Coupe | $200,700 |
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
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What is the Mercedes-Benz GLC like on the inside?
Ah, so this is what real luxury feels like.
Budget-conscious challenger brands have become increasingly adept at imitating ‘premium’ on a shoestring budget, but the interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLC demonstrates that appearances only count for so much.
It’s not enough for a space to look premium; it has to smell, feel, and sound premium, too. Mercedes-Benz has nailed that brief with this particular model.
Visually, Mercedes-Benz’s trademark waterfall dash design still wows. The infotainment screen is a natural extension of the central tunnel, while the surrounding elements ooze class.
Our test vehicle featured the standard black interior – a palette that can prove oppressive when executed poorly. However, the standard fitment of a panoramic sunroof brightens up the space to no end, and customisable ambient lighting strips add a splash of colour.
I was shocked to learn that the ‘leather’ used liberally throughout the cabin is in fact a synthetic substitute, as it’s got all the texture and ‘new car smell’ of the real stuff. Elsewhere you’ll find similarly tactile wood trim and striking metallic accents.
And speaking to that premium feel, Mercedes-Benz has made sure to attach padding to the side of the centre tunnel where the driver rests their left knee – a nice touch.
The seats likewise make for a pleasant experience, offering excellent comfort and lateral support over long journeys. Both front pews are heated and power-adjustable, while the steering column and headrests also move at the touch of a button. As such, there’s no excuse for failing to find a suitable driving position.
However, seat ventilation and steering wheel heating are absent in the GLC350e – both of which you’d expect to be standard, as is the case with the equivalent Genesis GV70 or Lexus NX.
Other cost-cutting measures are evident upon closer inspection. All plastics below the belt line are hard and scratchy, while the headliner is constructed of a relatively pedestrian fabric. But for the most part, those surfaces go unnoticed.
All the interior panels are tightly screwed together, and I failed to identify any gaps, squeaks or rattles.
While cabin presentation and quality both get a thumbs up, neither impress quite as much as the technology suite, headlined by a thoroughly modern 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment system.
Shared by many current Mercedes-Benz products, the upright tablet-style screen is easy to use and loaded with useful applications including detailed navigation, YouTube, Amazon, Spotify, Apple Music, weather, news, and games. Each app is easily identifiable with large text and image labels, so you’ll never get lost looking for something.
The same can be said of the climate controls, which are permanently located at the base of the screen, in addition to other handy shortcuts.
As standard, there’s both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is to be expected in a premium product like the GLC. Those who prefer to keep their car cable-free can charge up using a wireless charging pad located under the centre stack.
While the MBUX system is seemingly overflowing with functionality, it never appears strained during heavy use – all menus are quick to load and the graphics of the screen are unwaveringly crisp.
The screen layout is relatively set in stone, but plentiful vehicle personalisation is available via the user profile feature. By signing up for a Mercedes Me ID, owners can adjust the default settings for cabin lighting, climate controls, the radio, and seat/steering wheel/mirror positioning.
Joining the Mercedes Me network also unlocks access to connected services via the Mercedes-Benz app, which houses an impressive array of functions including vehicle status monitoring, service reminders, location data, and remote vehicle control.
In addition to a state-of-the-art infotainment screen, all versions of the GLC boast a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, as well as a head-up display. The rectangular instrument panel offers a multitude of both traditional and futuristic layouts, although I opted for straightforward gauges separated by a customisable centre data readout. As is the case with the MBUX unit, the quality of the visuals is simply sublime, and the screen never appears cluttered.
I hold the belief that screens don’t necessarily make a car more premium, but Mercedes-Benz mounts a strong counter-argument with its current technology suite. But by the same token, so does BMW, a close rival that likewise excels in the tech department.
And there’s still room for improvement in Stuttgart. For example, the steering wheel is overcrowded with finicky touch-sensitive controls, and the horizontal shortcut bar below the infotainment screen can also be difficult to operate on the move.
One solution would be to repopulate the dash and centre console with physical switchgear, but that would threaten the multi-purpose storage area situated between the two front seats. The aforementioned cubby is a great place to store drinks of all sizes while driving, and also serves as a device charging hub.
Right next door is a deep centre console housing two USB-C outlets and a removable coin tray, while the glovebox and door bins are also spacious storage areas.
The second row is likewise practical and roomy…unless you’re seated in the middle.
Outboard passengers are unlikely to have any complaints regardless of their dimensions, as there’s plenty of space and the seats are pillowy soft.
However, middle seat legroom is impeded by a pronounced driveline hump in the floor, and the modified centre backrest is rock-hard. Best to fold the armrest down and pretend the GLC is a four-seater, then.
In this configuration, it’s very pleasant. The selection of materials remains premium, and storage options are plentiful. Amenities include dual USB-C outlets, air vents, reading lights and a set of pop-out cupholders.
Want more evidence that the GLC350e is perfectly suited to a party of four? Just take a look in the boot.
Despite the introduction of a 25kWh battery on the rear axle, there’s still 620 litres of capacity back there – enough for a couple large suitcases. You’ll have to muscle them in though, as the boot floor has been raised to accomodate the battery below. That pesky battery also robs the GLC350e of a proper spare tyre (replaced by a repair kit) any potential underfloor storage.
Regardless, the Merc is roomier than rivals. And the boot houses switches to fold the rear seats in 40:20:40 configuration, so you can access more space if needed.
| Dimensions | Mercedes-Benz GLC350e |
|---|---|
| Length | 4722mm |
| Width | 1938mm |
| Height | 1646mm |
| Wheelbase | 2888mm |
| Cargo capacity | 620L (behind rear seats) 1680L (behind front seats) |
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
Plug-in hybrid versions of the GLC are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 115kW electric motor, the latter of which is fed by a 25.3kWh battery pack.
| Specifications | Mercedes-Benz GLC350e |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol |
| Engine outputs | 150kW/320Nm |
| Electric motor outputs | 115kW |
| System outputs | 230kW/550Nm |
| Battery | 25.3kWh lithium-ion |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Drive type | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2316kg |
| 0-100km/h (claimed) | 6.7 seconds |
| Fuel economy (claimed) | 1.2L/100km |
| Fuel economy (as tested) | 8.8L/100km (Hybrid mode, empty battery) |
| Energy consumption (as tested) | 24.2kWh/100km (EV mode) |
| Electric driving range | 107km (claimed, WLTP) 103km (as tested) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62L |
| Fuel requirement | 95-octane premium unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 28g/km |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capacity | 2400kg |
The engine and electric motor combine to send 230kW and 550Nm to all four wheels via the same nine-speed automatic transmission found right across the GLC range.
While those outputs trump the GLC300’s 190kW and 400Nm, the weight of a 25.3kWh lithium-ion battery limits the GLC350e to a 6.7-second 0-100km/h sprint – 0.5s slower than the former.
However, the GLC350e is able to travel 107km on electric power alone, and it’s far more efficient than all other members of the combustion GLC range.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Mercedes-Benz GLC drive?
Like other variants in the GLC range, the GLC350e delivers on all its central promises.
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Given just a few hours to experience the new plug-in hybrid, I immediately set about answering a few important questions surrounding the fresh powertrain: does the GLC350e offer meaningful electric range? How does it drive as an EV? And how does it drive as a hybrid?
With the first question in mind, I switched our test vehicle into ‘Electric’ mode from the outset. What followed was a thoroughly refined and relaxing EV driving experience.
As you’d expect, the GLC350e sets off in silence. The electric motor is barely audible inside the cabin, and it delivers adequate power in a smooth manner. Mercedes-Benz quotes a 0–100km/h sprint of 6.7 seconds – hardly neck-snapping, but enough for the GLC350e to not feel strained in urban environments. And there’s always the option to awaken the petrol engine by mashing the throttle when in need of a little extra oomph.
But in my experience, the GLC350e is an SUV that encourages you to slow down and smell the roses, rather than race fellow commuters to the office. It’s a peaceful bubble in which to detach from your worries.
Those personality traits can be attributed to plentiful cabin sound deadening, agreeable driver assist systems, and the quietness of the powertrain. Even at highway speeds the cabin remains serene, reinforcing the luxurious feel of the GLC PHEV.
The adaptive cruise control system is easy to use and any feedback you receive from the lane centring feature is subtle in nature.
A large chunk of our time with the GLC350e was spent either on the highway or flowing country roads – a recipe for sub-optimal electric efficiency/range. However, it comfortably exceeded expectations in this important area.
We managed 103km of electric travel before the combustion engine kicked in – just 4km shy of Mercedes-Benz’s official claim. And I must stress, that’s on the lower end of what’s achievable in the GLC350e. As such, the vast majority of drivers will be able to complete their daily duties on electric power alone, regardless of the road conditions.
Paddles behind the steering wheel can be used to adjust the intensity of regenerative braking from ‘D-‘ (most intense) through to ‘D+’ (least intense) and ‘D Auto’. It’s worth leaning into this system as regen feels quite natural in the GLC350e, and I found the D- setting to offer smooth, prompt deceleration.
Putting regen braking aside, the GLC350e offers a total of six dedicated drive modes: Battery Hold, Electric, Hybrid, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual (engine, steering, and ESP customisation available).
Given I spent the first couple hours of the drive program draining the battery in Electric mode, it was only fair that also experienced the car as a proper hybrid. Because sure, you buy a PHEV to take advantage of its EV capability, but there will also be times when the petrol engine is forced into action e.g. during a long road trip.
On such occasions, the GLC PHEV remains an impressively refined, albeit no longer silent mid-sized SUV. The turbo-petrol engine is quiet, smooth, and free of unwelcome vibration – a perfect match for the electric motor it pairs with.
It also pulls strongly right through the rev range without causing a fuss. And when left to its own devices, the hybrid system transitions smoothly between power sources, maintaining a composed and refined character.
The effortless nature of the powertrain is complemented by superb ride quality that takes the sting out of Australia’s imperfect roads.
Unlike other members of the GLC range, the GLC350e is fitted with self-levelling rear suspension to counteract the added weight of the drive battery housed under the boot floor. The system provides an extra layer of cushioning at the rear end, while also keeping the car balanced over undulating sections of tarmac.
There’s room for improvement, though. Perhaps it’s greediness on my part, but the GLC350e would benefit from an adaptive suspension setup akin to what’s offered in the GLC43 AMG, even as a cost option.
Nevertheless, the GLC350e clearly prioritises comfort, but it also handles well for a vehicle of its stature.
Despite weighing just over 2300kg, the GLC350e feels nimble and well-balanced. There’s not much in the way of steering feel, but the wheel itself is easy to turn and the all-wheel drive system provides excellent grip, inspiring confidence through corners.
So while it’s not a performance model, the 350e still feels sporty and planted, with handling characteristics that hint at the potential of the AMG variants.
That sense of agility is also felt in urban environments. The GLC feels compact and easy to park, while its surround-view cameras are among the best in market.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
The standard equipment list for the GLC350e includes an Avantgarde exterior package, which includes 19-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels, LED headlights, metallic paint, and privacy glass.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC200 equipment highlights:
- 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels
- Space-saver spare wheel
- LED headlights with adaptive high-beam
- Agility Control suspension with selective damping
- Aluminium roof rails
- Comfort Plus package – hands-free access, keyless go, easy-pack tailgate, USB package
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Fingerprint scanner
- Panoramic glass sunroof
- Aluminium-look running boards
- Power-folding exterior mirrors
- Mercedes-Benz logo puddle lighting
- Avantgarde chrome exterior trim
- Auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
- Diamond-patterned Artico upholstery
- High-gloss black centre console trim
- Heated and power-adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar and memory
- Illuminated door sills
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Head-up display
- 11.9-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless phone charger
- Satellite navigation
- Ambient lighting
- Chrome interior package
- Dual-zone climate control
- Privacy glass
The Mercedes-Benz GLC350e adds:
- 19-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels
- Aluminium-look side steps
- Anthracite Lime Wood dash trim
- Dashboard and beltlines in Artico
- Comfort suspension with self-levelling
- Charging cable for domestic socket
- Charging cable for wallbox and public charging
- Tyre repair kit
The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 adds (over GLC200):
- 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels
- AMG Line exterior, AMG bodystyling
- Upgraded braking system with large front discs
- Body-coloured wheel arches
- AMG Line interior
- Anthracite Lime Wood dashboard trim
- Dashboard and beltlines in Artico
- Sports seats for driver and front passenger
- Multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather
- Advanced sound system
- Piano black centre console
The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 Coupe adds:
- Night Package
- Sport suspension
- 20-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 adds:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Silver brake calipers
- AMG Styling Package – includes Night Package, Mercedes-AMG exterior, AMG lip spoiler
- AMG Ride Control suspension
- Rear-axle steering
- Heat and noise-insulating acoustic glass
- Digital Light Package with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
- Urban Guard vehicle protection
- Tyre repair kit
- Comfort Plus package – hands-free access, keyless go, easy-pack tailgate, USB package
- AMG Real Performance Sound
- AMG sports seats
- Driver Assistance Package Plus
- AMG black leather upholstery with red stitching
- Augmented Reality (AR) navigation system
- Burmester ‘3D’ sound system
The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E Performance adds:
- 21-inch forged wheels
- AMG Active Ride Control suspension
- AMG Night Package II with darkened grille, black chrome badging
- AMG Track Pace track data logging
- AMG Driver’s Package
- Mercedes-AMG exterior styling
- Charging cable for domestic socket
- Nappa leather upholstery
- AMG high-performance composite braking system (with red calipers)
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC safe?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC received a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on Euro NCAP testing conducted in 2022.
| Category | Mercedes-Benz GLC |
|---|---|
| Adult occupant protection | 92 per cent |
| Child occupant protection | 92 per cent |
| Vulnerable road user protection | 74 per cent |
| Safety assist | 84 per cent |
Standard safety equipment includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- Blind-spot assist
- Lane keep assist
- Parking sensors front, rear
- Rear cross-traffic assist
- Semi-autonomous parking assist
- Speed sign recognition
- 360-degree cameras
- Tyre pressure monitoring
Opting for the Plus Package on the GLC200 and GLC300 adds:
- MBUX augmented reality for navigation
- Driving Assistance Package w/ Pre-Safe
- Active Lane Change Assist
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Evasive manoeuvre support
- Interior monitoring system
- Anti-theft alarm
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Mercedes-Benz GLC cost to run?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
| Servicing and Warranty | Mercedes-Benz GLC |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 years, unlimited kilometres |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 25,000km |
| Prepaid service plan | Up to 5 years |
| Average annual service plan cost | $1470 |
| Total service plan cost | $7350 |
That’s par for the course, but the same can’t be said of the service bills Mercedes-Benz expects customers to pay. A five-year GLC service plan costs a whopping $7350, which equates to $1470 per year.
By contrast, the Lexus NX, BMW X3, Volvo XC60 and Audi Q5 all cost around $3000 to maintain over the same period, while Genesis doesn’t charge a cent.
To see how the Mercedes-Benz GLC lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Mercedes-Benz GLC350e
Plug-in hybrids are all about flexibility, and the GLC350e delivers that in spades.
With a punchy electric motor and more than 100km of usable EV range, it’s perfect for those who desire a fuel-free commute but aren’t willing to sacrifice the convenience of quick fuel stops on a long weekend road trip.
And like other versions of the GLC, the 350e is quiet, comfortable, refined and practical – exactly what most luxury SUV buyers are after.
Then there’s the pricing – at sub-$100k, the GLC350e represents cracking value compared to the GLC200 and GLC300, both of which now seem a bit dear.
That said, the PHEV still ain’t cheap. And it ain’t cheap to service, either.
So, sure, the GLC350e might be the pick of the range, but prospective buyers should also consider similarly accomplished alternatives including the Lexus NX450+ F Sport and Volvo XC60 Ultra T8.
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