Mercedes-Benz has rapidly expanded its lineup of electric vehicles. But the company’s commitment to electrification isn’t leapfrogging intermediate steps entirely, as shown by the return after a four-model-year hiatus of the 2025 GLC350e plug-in hybrid SUV.
Like the similar, gas-powered GLC300, the GLC350e uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, though the plug-in variant makes 201 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque, down from 255 and 295, respectively, in the GLC300. A hearty electric motor more than makes up for the decrease, though, contributing 134 hp and 325 pounds-feet, for system totals of 313 hp and 406 pounds-feet.
Drawing juice from a 24.8-kilowatt-hour battery pack, the GLC350e is said to be good for about 80 miles of electric range as measured in European testing cycles; the EPA test cycle generally returns figures some 20% lower, which would still mean an electric mileage range in the mid- to high-60s. Regenerative braking replenishes the battery during normal driving, while a standard 60-kilowatt onboard DC charger can fully recharge the pack in about 30 minutes. Top speed in Electric mode is 87 mph; with the gas engine helping, the GLC350e is limited to 135 mph. Mercedes figures it’ll accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, plenty quick for a vehicle focused on efficiency.
Aside from its high-tech powertrain, the GLC350e is largely the same as its gas-powered sibling, with a generous list of standard features including LED exterior lighting, keyless entry and start, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 11.9-inch center touchscreen with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and phone charging. Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels add further luxury equipment such as a Burmester surround-sound system, 360-degree camera system and head-up display.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e will arrive at U.S. dealerships in the second half of 2024. Pricing will be announced closer to the start of sales.
