2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class EV
Overview
It looks a lot like the regular gasoline-powered GLC-class SUV, but the electric powertrain hiding under the sheetmetal sets the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class EV on an entirely different journey. We’ve had a chance to drive the new compact electric crossover, and its ride is smooth, its powertrain is perky, and its luxury experience is intact.
Two models will be offered—the single-motor GLC300+ and the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GLC400 4Matic—and both come with the same battery pack. Driving range for the GLC400 should be around 380 miles per charge, says Mercedes, but we don’t know yet what the range will be for the GLC300+. Both are spacious, upscale, and tech-forward, especially the models with the large 39.1-inch Hyperscreen that spans the full width of the dash.
Expert Tip: If you aren’t ready to leap into all-electric SUV ownership, Mercedes-Benz currently sells a plug-in hybrid version of the gas-powered GLC. We review that model separately.
What’s New for 2027?
The GLC-Class EV is a new addition to the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It slots in under the mid-size EQE SUV, and its naming convention marks a move away from the EQ prefix that Benz has used on its EVs so far.
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Pricing and Which One to Buy
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
- EV Motors: 369-hp single motor, 483-hp dual motor
- Drivetrains: rear-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive
The base GLC300+ gets a single electric motor that makes 369 horsepower and drives the rear wheels. All-wheel drive is available by upgrading to the dual-motor GLC400 4Matic, which offers a combined 483 horsepower.
A two-speed automatic transmission is onboard, but you don’t feel it shifting gears. Ride comfort is good, especially on the optional air-spring suspension system, which can also raise the GLC EV for more ground clearance should you decide to venture off-road. When we drove the GLC400, we found it to offer quick acceleration and a smooth ride.
0–60-MPH Times
- C/D 60-mph Test: 3.7 seconds
- Claimed 60-mph Time: 5.9 seconds (manufacturer estimate, GLC300+)
In Comparison: The GLC-class EV’s primary rivals are the BMW iX3 and the Porsche Macan EV. The GLC beats the BMW, which recorded a 4.3-second 60-mph time in our testing, but the Macan EV 4S we tested managed to be quicker at 3.6 seconds to 60.
Additional Research
Towing and Payload Capacity
- Max Towing: 5291 pounds
A trailer hitch is an optional extra, and Mercedes says that with it installed, the GLC400 model can tow up to 5291 pounds.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
- C/D Range Test: 330 miles
- EPA Range: 331–350 miles
The EPA rates the GLC400 to deliver between 331 and 350 miles of range. The company hasn’t revealed an estimated range for the single-motor GLC300+ model. In our real-world 75-mph highway range test, the GLC400 delivered an impressive 330 miles.
The GLC EV can charge its 94-kWh battery pack at up to 400-volt charging stations, which Mercedes-Benz claims results in adding 188 miles of charge in just 10 minutes. In our real-world charging test, we went from 10 percent to 90 percent in 28 minutes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
- EPA City Rating: 106–123 MPGe
- EPA Highway Rating: 98–115 MPGe
The GLC400 is rated by the EPA for between 106 and 123 MPGe city, and 98 and 115 MPGe highway. In our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy test, it achieved 86 MPGe. We don’t yet have estimates for the GLC300+ powertrain. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV fuel efficiency. For more information about the GLC EV’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
First Row: Premium materials are used throughout the GLC EV’s cabin, but it feels like there are too many screens and lighting elements. The overall look inside, especially when equipped with the optional Hyperscreen dashboard setup, is overwhelmingly digital. That said, the front seat area is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of storage cubbies and supportive bucket seats.
Second Row: The GLC EV’s back seat is roomier than its gas-powered sibling. There’s plenty of legroom, and even tall adults should fit just fine.
Cargo Capacity: The rear cargo bay is spacious too, at 20.1 cubic feet, which should be more than enough for a weekend’s worth of luggage or a family-sized grocery haul. If you need more space, there’s also a 4.5 cubic-foot front trunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity
- Infotainment: 14.0-inch touchscreen (standard), 39.1-inch Hyperscreen (optional)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Audio System: 5-speaker stereo (standard), 16-speaker Burmester stereo
A 14.0-inch touchscreen with a separate digital gauge display is standard, but the optional 39.1-inch Hyperscreen is more buzzworthy and makes the dashboard almost entirely digital. Navigation, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all standard.
A 5-speaker stereo is standard fare, but a 16-speaker Burmester setup is optional and features Dolby Atmos spatial audio technology. SiriusXM satellite radio is included with all models.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Mercedes-Benz includes many driver-assistance features as standard, but to unlock the most advanced tech, you’ll need to add MB.Drive Assist Plus or MB.Drive Assist Pro.
- Standard Safety Features: automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning
- Optional Safety Features: adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving mode
For information about the GLC-Class EV’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes’ warranty periods align with other luxury automakers, such as Audi and BMW. However, unlike those German competitors, Benz-branded models don’t include any complimentary maintenanc
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