Days before BMW unveiled their Neue Klasse inspired iX3 with its polarizing appearance, Mercedes has also taken the opportunity to debut their popular GLC SUV, and the big talking point is that this has gone all-electric.
Now newly revealed in EQ guise, Mercedes has decided to do away with an engine in exchange for their smart electric technology, but first, let's take a look at the overhauled vehicle and what it's gained inside and out..
The fascia is a completely new look that features what Benz calls an iconic illuminated chrome grille with integrated elements that showcase light-up graphics. Beside the new grille will sit standard full-LED headlights with the integrated iconic star logo and "visor" look of the daytime running lights.
The star-integrated light signature continues to the rear, as can be seen with the new "two-part lights" first seen in the Concept AMG GT XX. As an option, in conjunction with the illuminated grille, these lights will animate when the vehicle is unlocked or charging.
Overall, the design is still quite noticeable as it still features signature Mercedes elements like roof rails, a sleek roofline , pronounced and sculpted body panels, and, depending on the chosen trim, chrome everywhere!
“The all-new electric GLC is more than just a car, it paves the way for a new era of iconic design. With the new grille, we’ve redefined the brand’s face by reimagining and preserving one of the most iconic design elements in automotive history. As an elevation of Sensual Purity, the electric GLC is the perfect blend of tradition and the future and ensures that Mercedes‑Benz remains instantly recognisable.” Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz AG
Inside, the theme was clearly "Go big or go home," as the centerpiece is the massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen that covers the whole dashboard from A-pillar to A-pillar, even continuously integrating the digital instrument cluster and the optional passenger screen all as one display.
Boot space is generous at 570 liters of capacity, expanding to 1,740 liters with the backrest folded down. A further 128 liters is available in the front luggage compartment (frunk).
This Hyperscreen is not only big but also has over-the-air updates, phone connectivity, and integrated AI from Microsoft and Google, offering seamless interaction and will surely hold most functions on the screen as there is no place for buttons except the multifunctional steering wheel and the AC buttons that remain displayed on the screen. Sound is taken care of by a Burmester® 3D sound system.
Beyond the screen, the interior of the GLC still remains as luxurious as the cabin contains high-quality materials, an optional Vegan Package, ambient lighting, and the big SKY CONTROL panoramic roof that can dim or become transparent to block the amount of light entering the cabin. Some more creature comforts in the cabin are the adjustable electric seats, which if chosen in the AMG Line Sport Seat Package, feature door belt lines and the area beneath the windscreen is finished in an elegant Nappa-leather look with fine decorative stitching.
The all-new GLC also gains well- deserved upgrades to a suspension borrowing from the bigger, more posh S- Class, letting clients enjoy a more comfortable ride in their electric GLC thanks to the AIRMATIC system with intelligent suspension control. Steering control is also enhanced with the introduction of rear-wheel steering, and the car is even said to scan for potholes up ahead and adjust promptly so that the smooth ride is not disturbed.
The GLC promises to offer long-distance comfort mixed with driving, as it is said to have a claimed range of up to 713 km on a full charge and also the ability to charge up to 303 km of range in just 10 minutes of charging. The new 800-volt system is poised to significantly reduce charging time in conjunction with the new battery generation. The car utilizes a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 94.0 kWh and has a power output of 355 kW.