The Mercedes-Benz lineup will expand later this year with the 2025 GLC350e 4Matic plug-in hybrid. The new variant joins the GLC300 in the lineup and will go on sale in the United States in the second half of 2024.
Under the hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 134-horsepower electric motor and a 24.8 kilowatt-hour (usable) battery. Total system output is 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Eighty percent of the total torque (325 lb-ft) is instantly available from the electric motor.
Mercedes estimates the crossover can accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 6.6 seconds. It electronically limits the GLC’s top speed to 135 mph when using the engine, but caps it at 87 mph when the vehicle is operating in purely electric mode.
The plug-in hybrid can travel up to 81 miles on a single charge, but Mercedes achieved that figure on the lenient WLTP cycle in Europe, and the U.S. will likely see a lower figure. Owners will be able to recharge the battery in about 30 minutes with the standard 60-kilowatt DC charger.
It will be available in three versions: Standard, Exclusive and Pinnacle. Standard features include heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, blind-spot assist, adaptive high-beam assist, and more. The Exclusive version benefits from a Burmester 3D Surround Sound audio system, improved ambient lighting and illuminated door sills. The Pinnacle benefits from all of this, plus a head-up display, noise and heat insulating glass and upgraded Digital Light headlights.
Inside is a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and an 11.9-inch central infotainment screen. Customers will be able to choose from 11 exterior colors, 13 upholstery options and eight unique wheel designs.
The GLC350e 4Matic will complement the GLC lineup, according to the automaker, and will reach dealerships later this year. Mercedes will announce the crossover’s pricing closer to its on-sale date. The 2023 GLC300 4Matic with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque starts at $50,250 (price includes $1,150 destination charge), and the new plug-in hybrid variant should command more than that.
