The newest electric GLC is still a Mercedes-Benz at heart

When it comes to Mercedes-Benz, the GLC is in a bit of a weird spot, being a sort of the middle child of the German company’s SUV lineup. And yet, the GLC is apparently one of their bestselling models worldwide, according to Mercedes-Benz themselves, so it makes sense that they would be expanding their EV-making efforts via a new electric GLC.

This new GLC was unveiled for the Singapore market at Gardens by the Bay, launched alongside a new Mercedes-Benz Studio Singapore at the Gardens. Part of a global chain of Mercedes-Benz Studios, the space is intended to be a communal hub for customers and guests to interact with and indulge in the brand. 

But back to the car, the GLC line is fairly simplified. Only one variant will be available in Singapore at launch and it’s badged as the GLC 400. Two different trims will be offered – the GLC 400 4MATIC AMG Line and AMG Line Sport. Both models deliver 360kW (489hp) and 800nm of torque, so 0-100km/h time takes just 4.3s.

As for how long it can travel, the GLC offers a WLTP range of 687km, powered by a 94.4kWh NMC battery. That 687km figure is decent, though not the highest we’ve seen on an EV. Plus, being an NMC battery means you’ll want to take more care to keep the charge between 20-80%.

But still, the new electric GLC supports DC charging at up to 330kW, or in other words, up to 305km of range in 10 minutes if you can find a charging station that can provide that kind of power (like the ones at Great World). AC charging is capped at 22W.

As for the chassis, it’s a slightly longer vehicle than the current hybrid GLCs with a wheelbase of 2,972mm. Storage space comes down to 128L for the frunk and 570L for the trunk, expanding to 1,740L with the rear seats folded. For the trunk, you get an additional 100L more than the electric GLB that was also recently released.

The new GLC features the MBUX Superscreen, a three-screen driver infotainment system that stretches the length of the dashboard, from the instrument cluster on the driver’s side to an infotainment system in the middle and passenger side. 

We’ve also seen this in the GLB so it’s not necessarily new, though the GLC does have an upgrade available if you’re willing to shell out more cash. If you get the AMG Line Sport variant, or if you pay for it as an optional feature, you can get the MBUX Hyperscreen, which combines all three screens into a seamless 39.1-inch display.

It’s differences like these that separate the AMG Line and AMG Line Sport variants. Aside from the MBUX Hyperscreen, the AMG Line Sport also comes with an Agility and Comfort Package consisting of 4.5-degree rear-axle steering and AIRMATIC air suspension, plus a Burmester surround sound system, as standard.

Of course, these are available optional add-ons for the regular AMG Line variant too (but they are pricey). The Agility and Comfort Package, with its rear-axle steering, may be a salient option for those navigating narrow driveways or MSCPs on the way home.

But between the AMG Line and Line Sport, you get the Sky Control panoramic roof as standard – which you can switch between a transparent, opaque or a mixed “Motif” mode featuring opaque and transparent stripes. Finally, both models will also feature a re-designed and illuminated grille to keep that Mercedes-Benz look. It’s a good look, though the star-shaped head and tail lights may be a bit more divisive.

Availability and Pricing

Introductory pricing for the Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4MATIC AMG Line starts at $378,888, with the AMG Line Sport bumping that price up to $412,888, both with COE included. The GLC will also come bundled in with a three-year service package and $1,000 worth of Mercedes-Benz charging credits. You can book a test drive or configure your electric GLC on Mercedes-Benz’s website here.