2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV

Overview

It looks a lot like the regular gasoline-powered GLC-class SUV, but the electric powertrain hiding under the sheetmetal sets the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class EV on an entirely different journey. We’ve had a chance to test drive a prototype of the new compact electric crossover, and its ride is smooth, its powertrain is perky, and its luxury experience is intact.

Two models will be offered—the single-motor GLC300+ and the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GLC400 4Matic—and both come with the same battery pack. Driving range for the GLC400 should be around 376 miles per charge, says Mercedes, but we don't know yet what the range will be for the GLC300+. Both are spacious, upscale, and tech-forward, especially the models with the large 39.1-inch Hyperscreen that spans the full width of the dash.

Expert Tip: If you aren't ready to leap into all-electric SUV ownership, Mercedes-Benz currently sells a plug-in hybrid version of the gas-powered GLC. We review that model separately.

What's New for 2027?

The GLC-Class EV is a new addition to the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It slots in under the mid-size EQE SUV, and its naming convention marks a move away from the EQ prefix that Benz has used on its EVs so far.

What's Your Car Worth?

Car and Driver calculates your car's value in three free and easy steps - using the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.

Get your trade-in value

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We think upgrading to the Exclusive trim will make sense. It will add desirable features such as an illuminated grille, a panoramic glass roof with controllable opacity, ambient interior lighting, and a 14-inch passenger's display. We imagine the single-motor GLC300+ will offer enough pep for most drivers, and it may also provide more driving range than the dual-motor model, but we'll have to wait for details on that one before we can say for sure.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

• EV Motors: 369-hp single motor, 483-hp dual motor
• Drivetrains: rear-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive

The base GLC300+ gets a single electric motor that makes 369 horsepower and drives the rear wheels. All-wheel drive is available by upgrading to the dual-motor GLC400 4Matic, which offers a combined 483 horsepower.

A two-speed automatic transmission is onboard, but you don’t feel it shifting gears. Ride comfort is good, especially on the optional air-spring suspension system, which can also raise the GLC EV for more ground clearance should you decide to venture off-road.

0–60-MPH Times

• Claimed 60-mph Time: 5.9 seconds (manufacturer estimate, GLC300+), 4.4 seconds (manufacturer estimate, GLC400 4Matic)

In Comparison: The GLC-Class EV's primary rivals are the BMW iX3 and the Porsche Macan EV, and while the iX3's 60 mph estimate is close to that of the GLC400's at 4.7 seconds, the Macan EV 4S we tested managed to be quicker at 3.6 seconds to 60.

View Exterior Photos

Towing and Payload Capacity

• Max Towing: 5291 pounds

A trailer hitch is an optional extra, and Mercedes says that with it installed, the GLC400 model can tow up to 5291 pounds.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

• Estimated EV Range: 376 miles

Based on Mercedes-Benz's range predictions for the GLC400 4Matic model, we expect its EPA range estimate will come in at around 376 miles. The company hasn't revealed an estimated range for the single-motor GLC300+.

The GLC EV can charge its 94-kWh battery pack at up to 400-volt charging stations, which Mercedes-Benz claims results in adding 188 miles of charge in just 10 minutes. We look forward to testing this claim when we get our hands on an electric GLC.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

First Row: Premium materials are used throughout the GLC EV's cabin, but it feels like there are too many screens and lighting elements. The overall look inside, especially when equipped with the optional Hyperscreen dashboard setup, is overwhelmingly digital. That said, the front seat area is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of storage cubbies and supportive bucket seats.

Second Row: The GLC EV's back seat is roomier than its gas-powered sibling. There's plenty of legroom, and even tall adults should fit just fine.

Cargo Capacity: The rear cargo bay is spacious too, at 20.1 cubic feet, which should be more than enough for a weekend's worth of luggage or a family-sized grocery haul. If you need more space, there's also a 4.5 cubic-foot front trunk.

View Interior Photos

Infotainment and Connectivity

• Infotainment: 14.0-inch touchscreen (standard), 39.1-inch Hyperscreen (optional)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Audio System: 5-speaker stereo (standard), 16-speaker Burmester stereo

A 14.0-inch touchscreen with a separate digital gauge display is standard, but the optional 39.1-inch Hyperscreen is more buzzworthy and makes the dashboard almost entirely digital. Navigation, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all standard.

A 5-speaker stereo is standard fare, but a 16-speaker Burmester setup is optional and features Dolby Atmos spatial audio technology. SiriusXM satellite radio is included with all models.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Mercedes-Benz includes many driver-assistance features as standard, but to unlock the most advanced tech, you'll need to add MB.Drive Assist Plus or MB.Drive Assist Pro.

• Standard Safety Features: automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning
• Optional Safety Features: adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving mode

For information about the GLC-Class EV's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes' warranty periods align with other luxury automakers, such as Audi and BMW. However, unlike those German competitors, Benz-branded models don't include any complimentary maintenance.

• Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles
• EV Component Warranty:10 years or 100,000 miles
• Complimentary Maintenance: None

As more information becomes available, we'll update this story with more details about:

• Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
• C/D Test Results and Specs

Specifications

Specifications

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC400 4Matic with EQ Technology
Vehicle Type: front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE (C/D EST)
Base: $65,000

POWERTRAIN
Front Motor: current-excited synchronous AC
Rear Motor: current-excited synchronous AC
Combined Power: 483 hp
Combined Torque: 596 lb-ft
Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 94 kWh
Peak Charge Rate, AC/DC: 22.0/330 kW
Transmissions, F/R: direct-drive, 2-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 117.0 in
Length: 190.7 in
Width: 75.3 in
Height: 64.7 in
Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 61/20 ft³
Front Trunk Volume: 5 ft³
Curb Weight (C/D est): 5300 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.0 sec
100 mph: 9.5 sec
1/4-Mile: 12.5 sec
Top Speed: 130 mph

EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Range: 377 mi