Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the top three German automakers, make decisions appealingly difficult for consumers. The manufacturers offer performance-oriented, well-heeled and well-constructed vehicles in about any shape and size there is.
Considering just SUVs, Audi offers 10, BMW 12 and Mercedes-Benz 17, including gas and hybrid considerations. The Mercedes-Benz stable includes one particular returning variety, the 2025 GLC 350e. It’s a plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, that expands the previously available SUV range among electric vehicles. It was previously offered but was discontinued after the 2020 model year.
The GLC debuted in 2015 as a 2016 compact luxury crossover. It replaced the GLK-Class and is the SUV equivalent to the C-Class, according to the manufacturer.
Beyond its PHEV attributes, the GLC 350e is closely related to the standard GLC. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine and adds an electric motor that pulls from a 24.8-kWh battery. Power is sent to all four wheels.
The electric-only driving range is 54 miles, a usable tally for short commutes and other brief treks. Mercedes-Benz touts that the SUV can fully charge in 30 minutes at a public fast-charging station.
The hybrid’s battery pack weighs more than 700 pounds, pushing the vehicle’s total weight to a chunky 5,108 pounds. The extra weight means it’s slightly slower than the gas-only sibling’s ratings, but its acceleration is more than sufficient; after all, the SUV is a luxury family hauler, not a sports car. Its smooth, quick transition shifts overshadow any need for performance bravado.
Six driving modes are included: EV-only, hybrid, battery hold, sport, off-road and individual. The EV-only is the default mode; the battery hold serves as the option to save as much electric energy as possible.
Available in Base, Exclusive and top-line Pinnacle trims, the GLC 350e includes standard a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 11.3-inch portrait-style center touchscreen, 16-way adjustable heated front seats, 64-color ambient lighting and blind-spot warning systems. The Exclusive model adds a Burmester audio system, surround-view camera, anti-theft and anti-tow-away features. The Pinnacle trim has noise-insulated glass, a head-up display and Dolby Atmos, the new surround sound technology.
Additional niceties include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with a layout of 15 apps per screen. The SUV has six USB-C ports and a wireless phone charger. The latter could be more readily available — it’s located deep into the center console.
Mercedes’ voice recognition is activated via the command “Hey, Mercedes.” It’s a convenient feature, but perhaps overly ambitious, as the system seemingly engages on words other than the manufacturer’s name.
Per its longstanding ways, the SUV represents the best of Mercedes-Benz, inside and outside. Top-grade materials dominate the interior, all presented with a designer’s touch. The ambient lighting complements the appearance. The GLC lineup is marketed as the carmaker’s entry-level luxury class, but it’s a misnomer. If any further example is required, consider the German home and automotive audio company’s equipment in the GLC (and other classes). It features 15 speakers distributing symphonic quality. It’s extra-impressive since the 350e advances smoothly, seamlessly absorbing road imperfections and accomplishing any tasks quietly.
Like its top rivals, Mercedes-Benz vehicles ideally define getting what a buyer pays for. Bargains don’t exist for Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. But value is plentiful.
Facts & figures
Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph, 6.2 seconds
Airbags: 7
Horsepower: 313
Gas mileage: 380-mile range, 64vMPGe
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $61,050
Price as reviewed: $73,770
Manufacturer’s website: mbusa.com
Warranty: Bumper-to-Bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Powertrain, 4 years/50,000 miles; Hybrid/Electrical Components, 8 years/100,000 miles; Corrosion, 4 years/50,000 miles; Roadside Assistance, 4 years/50,000 miles
