Mercedes-Benz shows its teeth with its new GLC electric SUV: the new BMW iX3 now has a direct rival

Just one day after BMW surprised us with the iX3, and also ahead of the start of IAA Mobility 2025, which will be held this week in the German city of Munich, Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled its new GLC with EQ technology. An electric SUV that, according to the German manufacturer itself, is destined to mark a turning point in the market within its segment.

At first sight there is no doubt that the new GLC is a Mercedes, maintaining the essence of the star brand with a recognisable yet refined style. After the poor experience Mercedes-Benz had with the EQC and EQE -including their SUV variants-, whose design was perceived by many of their customers as excessively futuristic, with the new GLC the German manufacturer has opted for a somewhat more conservative approach, without losing a certain air of modernity. The enormous front grille especially stands out, typical of a combustion vehicle that requires more airflow, but which on this occasion integrates an innovative lighting system.

The new GLC EQ was developed from the outset to be electric, and for that reason it is based on the MB.EA-M platform designed exclusively for this type of vehicle, unlike the new CLA, which uses the MMA platform, also valid for hybrid variants. The use of this new platform in the GLC EQ has allowed Mercedes-Benz’s engineers to integrate more innovative technologies and optimise the vehicle’s performance, as well as improve its efficiency.

A single launch version so you don’t complicate your life

The version presented by the German manufacturer in this first contact with the new GLC EQ is the 400 4MATIC, which features all-wheel drive thanks to two permanent-magnet synchronous motors, which together deliver a power output of 360 kW. This version is capable of reaching 100 km/h from a standstill in just 4.3 seconds, with its top speed limited to 210 km/h. It is also worth noting that it integrates a two-speed transmission on the rear axle and a disconnect unit on the front. As for energy consumption, Mercedes-Benz states that it ranges between 14.9 and 18.8 kWh per 100 km under the WLTP homologation cycle, depending on the level of equipment chosen.

As for the battery pack, an essential component of any electric vehicle, it has an 800V architecture and uses prismatic cells, offering a total capacity of 94 kWh, which allows it to cover up to 713 km under the WLTP homologation cycle.

On the other hand, when it comes to recharging, it supports a maximum power of 330 kW, which makes it possible to increase the charge level from 10 to 80 percent in 22 minutes. For AC charging using a wallbox, it is equipped with an internal 11 kW charger, with a 22 kW one offered as an option. Additionally, and as one would expect in a vehicle of this category in 2025, it also supports bidirectional charging, although the specific functions it will have will be implemented in the near future via a software update.

400V charging points will not be a problem

An important point to highlight is that, following the controversy surrounding the new CLA’s lack of compatibility with 400V DC ultra-fast charging points, this new electric GLC will integrate a voltage converter. Although everything suggests that in some markets it will be optional.

The new electric GLC combines comfort and dynamism thanks to air suspension similar to that of the S-Class, with adjustable damping and rear-axle steering -up to 4.5 degrees-, which improves manoeuvrability and stability. Inside, space increases thanks to a wheelbase 84 mm longer and an overall length of 4.85 metres, 13 cm more than the combustion-engined GLC we already know. This translates into greater comfort for passengers and more luggage space, with a boot of 570 litres -expandable to 1,740 litres when the seats are folded down-, to which must be added the 128-litre front compartment under the bonnet.

Welcome to the future of Mercedes-Benz

Upon entering the cabin, the technological level offered by the GLC is immediately apparent thanks to an impressive single MBUX Hyperscreen display of 39.1 inches with improved resolution, which also runs a new version of MBUX. Likewise, details such as the ambient lighting with stars integrated into the electrochromic glass roof elevate the onboard experience.

Compared with the BMW iX3, the new GLC offers advantages in terms of cargo space and towing capacity, but falls somewhat behind the Bavarian manufacturer’s new electric SUV in range, by about 100 km less, due to differences in battery pack capacity and the aerodynamic coefficient of both vehicles. The iX3 also promises greater charging power, at 400 kW, compared with the GLC electric’s 330 kW. Choosing between one and the other will certainly not be easy for all those interested in buying a German electric SUV in this price range and, probably, brand loyalty may end up tipping the balance one way or the other in many cases.

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