2026 Mercedes GLC Electric: New Premium SUV from €71,900

Mercedes expands its electric lineup with the new 2026 GLC, the first SUV to use its dedicated MB.EA platform. Starting at €71,900, the GLC 400 4MATIC develops 490 hp and claims a WLTP range of 713 km, positioning Mercedes against the BMW iX3.

"With 942 luminous pixels in the grille, we are completely redefining the visual identity of Mercedes-Benz" — Mercedes-Benz Design Team

Mercedes is making a strong statement with this new GLC Electric, which replaces the old EQC withdrawn from the catalog in 2023 due to lack of commercial success. The stakes are high because the combustion GLC remains the global best-seller worldwide for the brand since 2022. This electric version is intended as a direct response to the recently refreshed BMW iX3.

An 800V Architecture for Fast Charging

The 2026 GLC is based on the new MB.EA platform (Mercedes-Benz Electric Architecture) with an 800V electrical architecture. This technology enables ultra-fast charging up to 330 kW, meaning 10-80% in about 30 minutes according to Mercedes. A clear improvement over the 150 kW of the old EQC.

The battery of 94 kWh promises a WLTP range of 713 km for the 400 4MATIC version. A figure that surpasses the 700 km of the BMW iX3 xDrive50, even if real-world conditions could nuance these homologation data.

Sports Car Performance

Only the GLC 400 4MATIC version is available at launch. It features two electric motors totaling 490 hp and 800 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.3 seconds. Performance comparable to the BMW iX3 xDrive50 and its 4.2 seconds.

The variable all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering (optional) promise enhanced agility. The AirMATIC adaptive suspension is also available as an option on AMG Line trims and above.

A Spectacular Grille That Sparks Debate

The new design is divisive. The illuminated grille integrates 942 LED "pixels" distributed across 140 diodes, creating a striking visual effect at night. This light signature draws inspiration from the chrome grilles of the Mercedes W111 from the 60s.

This stylistic evolution breaks with Mercedes' usual sobriety. While some see it as a welcome touch of modernity, others find the "bling-bling" effect excessive. Facing the XXL grille of the BMW iX3, Mercedes fully embraces this demonstrative approach.

Increased Dimensions, Enhanced Habitability

At 4.85 m in length (+134 mm vs. combustion GLC), the new electric GLC gains in interior space. The wheelbase, extended by 84 mm, frees up 47 mm of legroom in the rear. The trunk offers 520 liters, complemented by a 128-liter frunk handy for charging cables.

The interior features an 18-inch screen in a parallelogram format, following the design language of the electric CLA. The latest-generation MBUX interface integrates an AI-based voice assistant and ChatGPT.

Starting from what price?

The Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC starts at €71,900, which is about €10,000 more than the BMW iX3 xDrive50 (€62,450). This price difference is explained by a richer standard equipment level and advanced technical features like the 800V architecture.

The Battle Against Premium Rivals

The BMW iX3 remains the direct competitor with 523 hp and 700 km of range. The Audi Q6 e-tron (490 hp, 625 km) completes this premium trio, while the Tesla Model Y Performance