2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Electric Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Mercedes-Benz is working on an all-electric equivalent of the popular GLC-Class SUV. Note that we say equivalent, not version, because the vehicle will be built on an EV-specific platform and have different bodywork than the standard gas- and hybrid-powered GLC-Class.
Although the upcoming 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is related to the standard GLC-Class in name only, it aims to offer similar appeals in an electric-car driving experience. Rivals to the GLC-Class Electric include the Genesis GV60, Tesla Model Y, and Cadillac Lyriq.
What's New
Basics
- A new compact electric luxury SUV on an EV-specific platform
Exterior
- A more conventional design than what we've seen with the EQE and EQS SUVs. Instead, look for the GLC Electric to mimic the gas GLC's style.
Interior
- A five-passenger interior with all the latest Mercedes tech and screens for the driver, center console, and even front passenger.
Wait, What’s It Called?
The official name of this vehicle is Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology—hey, we didn’t think of it. Instead of that clumsy title, we call it the GLC Electric or GLC EV.
When it reaches production, expect an alphanumeric badge to specify the particular vehicle’s powertrain, like the G580 with EQ Technology.
Other GLC models include the GLC300, GLC350e, GLC43 AMG, and GLC63 S AMG.
Performance
Expect Mercedes to offer the GLC EV with a few different powertrain options. The base model will likely have a single rear motor producing slightly less than 300 hp, a mid-range dual-motor AWD version making 483 hp (which we drove a prototype of), and a high-performance AMG version cranking out up to 670 hp.
Acceleration will range from adequate on the single-motor base model to AMG-quick on the both AWD models.
EV Range and Charging
The basic battery will provide around 230 miles of range, while the upgrade pack should take the GLC Electric well over 350 miles between charges.
A peak charge rate up to 320 kW is plenty fast, allowing the SUV to gain more than 250 miles in 15 minutes under ideal conditions when public charging.
Better Than GLC PHEV?
Mercedes already builds the GLC350e, which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that provides an impressive 54 miles of all-electric driving range. When the battery goes flat or on a longer drive, the gas engine keeps you moving.
Although most will charge at home at slower Level 2 speeds, the Mercedes is one of the few plug-in hybrids available with a Level 3 charging port. The peak charge rate of 60 kW isn’t high compared to a fully electric car, but that flexibility may come in handy on a road trip.
Some drivers will prefer the GLC EV’s road manners and zero-emissions driving, but the GLC350e plug-in hybrid provides a nice compromise between gas and electric power. We like how the GLC350e drives, and its EV range is exceptional among PHEVs.
Safety Features—Self-Driving Mercedes?
Expect the 2026 GLC EV to have Mercedes’ latest driver-assist and active safety tech. Standard features should include the following:
- Front automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Side cross-traffic alert
- Automatic high beams
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist could be optional extras. The GLC EV may also be available with an advanced Level 3 hands-off autonomous driving system enabled by a LIDAR sensor. If offered, the tech would allow the car to control the pedals and steering wheel for extended periods of time when conditions are right.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Official details on the GLC Electric’s size and specs aren't yet available, but Mercedes has confirmed that the EV will have a wheelbase that’s a whopping five inches longer than the standard GLC. That provides space for the underfloor battery and could add more rear-seat legroom than a gas GLC300 or GLC350e.
Technology
Technology features in the GLC EV should match or exceed those in the gas-powered GLC. Look for a large touchscreen on the dashboard joined by an all-digital driver display; a head-up display will likely be optional. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected. T
here will be USB-C ports in both rows of seats, and possibly wireless charging pads as well. Premium audio from Burmester and a 360-degree camera will likely be on the options list.
When and How Much?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is expected to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026 as a model year 2026 vehicle. Pricing could start at slightly less than $70,000, although tariffs could affect that.
