Mercedes-Benz launches PHEV version of GLC

MERCEDES-BENZ continues its PHEV rollout with the GLC 350 e 4MATIC midsize SUV, which sits above the base GLC 200 but below the upstream GLC 300, launched with a compelling sub-$100k price.

The model follows the recently introduced GLA 250 e and C 350 e, with Mercedes-Benz now adding its EQ hybrid technology to the popular GLC midsize SUV line-up, listing from $99,900 plus on-road costs.

The sharply priced GLC 350 competes with the Q5 TFSI e ($102,615) and BMW X3 30e xDrive ($104,100), while the similarly specified Japanese Lexus RX450h+ is priced from $123,500 plus on-roads.

For the money, it’s a lot of SUV by PHEV standards, capable of travelling up to 135km (NEDC) under electric power only, and in EV mode it’ll reach 140km/h before the petrol engine fires to life for extra oomph.

The GLC 350 e combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, producing total combined outputs of 230kW/550Nm, which is enough to propel the family-friendly SUV to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.

That’s only marginally slower than the brand’s smaller C class equivalent, meaning the GLC PHEV is a stout performer by any measure.

The system offers three driving modes, consisting of Electric, Battery Level, and Hybrid, and a haptic accelerator that provides increased pedal resistance and is said to help “manage transitions between electric and hybrid power”.

A full charge using 11kW AC supply will take around two hours, while DC charging at the maximum rate of 55kW will take the GLC 350 e from zero to 80 per cent in around 20 minutes.

It’s well appointed too, with the brand’s AVANTGARDE styling applied inside and out with standard inclusions like a panoramic sunroof, metallic paint, privacy glass, and heated memory front seats with lumbar support.

The infotainment system features the unusual smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, while also getting a fingerprint scanner that allows owners to apply their preferred settings.

Mercedes-Benz has also rolled out a series of optional upgrade packs, including the Sport Package ($6000), Night Package ($1300) and Plus Package ($7600).

While the Night Package simply adds some blacked-out exterior trim and larger 20-inch wheels, the Sports Package offers genuine performance upgrades with larger brake discs, and the Plus Package brings technology like a Burmester 3D sound system, acoustic glass and MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation.

The GLC 350e 4Matic is now available in Australia, as Mercedes-Benz takes the fight to the other big German manufacturers with a sub-$100k PHEV contender.