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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e: The Plug-In SUV Redefining Luxury with 54-Mile EV Range, 313 HP Power

By Amit Kulkarni
5 min read
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e

Mercedes-Benz has extended the GLC line with a plug-in hybrid variant, the 2025 GLC 350e, pairing a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with a large battery to deliver class-leading electric range. In our week-long test, the GLC 350e proved the most EV-capable PHEV in the compact luxury SUV segment while trading off weight, cargo volume and pricing.

What's new and why it matters

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e brings a substantial electrified package to Mercedes' best-selling compact SUV. The model combines the brand's 2.0-litre turbo gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 31.2 kWh battery (≈23.3 kWh usable) to deliver up to 54 miles EPA all-electric range, with real-world runs in ideal conditions reaching ~60–72 miles on a charge. Total system output is up to 313 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, making the GLC 350e a compelling bridge for buyers not yet ready to commit to a full battery EV.

Powertrain and charging

Powertrain

  • Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection inline-4 (longitudinal layout)
  • Electric motor: Positioned between engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission
  • Combined output: 313 hp and 406 lb-ft
  • Gas-only output: ~201 hp; electric-only output ~134 hp

Battery & charging

  • Battery capacity: 31.2 kWh (≈23.3 kWh usable)
  • EPA electric range: up to 54 miles (tester observed 59–72 miles under ideal conditions)
  • Onboard AC charging: 11 kW (Level 2 ≈ ~3 hours from empty to full)
  • DC fast charging: Accepts up to 60 kW (Mercedes claims ~10–80% in ~30 minutes)

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Performance and driving impressions

  • 0–60 mph: Manufacturer estimate ~6.3 seconds; tester best runs: 5.95–5.99 seconds (battery charged)
  • Top speed: ~130 mph (limited)
  • Curb weight: ~5,100 lb (≈800 lb heavier than GLC 300 4MATIC)
  • The heavy battery reduces agility compared with the non-hybrid GLC 300; ride comfort remains a strength, aided by rear air suspension on the PHEV model
  • In pure EV mode, the car feels quieter and initially brisk thanks to instant torque, but is limited to the motor's ~134 hp, producing a slower 0–60 (~13.4s) if the gasoline engine stays inactive. The pedal feel is intentionally firmer in EV mode to encourage efficient driving

Packaging, interior and technology

Interior

  • Cabin largely mirrors the regular GLC: high-quality materials, leather seating (optional Napa upgrades), and the familiar Mercedes MBUX software
  • Displays: 11.9-inch center touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with updated graphics and an MBUX app ecosystem (Apple Music available via Mercedes app)
  • Trim and option highlights on the test car: AMG body styling, AMG night package, two-tone Power Red leather, Burmester 15-speaker audio (exclusive-trim option)

Practicality

  • Battery under the cargo floor raises load floor, reduces underfloor storage and likely reduces usable cargo below the advertised 22 cu ft (regular GLC), tester estimates under 20 cu ft for the PHEV; maximum folded volume reported at ~56 cu ft on the gasoline model may be lower in the 350e
  • Spare tire removed

Efficiency and range real-world figures

  • Electric-only: Tester saw ~59–64 miles routinely in mixed conditions; occasionally ~72 miles in optimal weather
  • Gasoline when depleted: EPA combined rating ~25 mpg; tester observed ~26 mpg with the battery empty, and trip-computer figures of ~37 mpg while operating with a charged battery (hybrid operation)
  • Mercedes' recommendation: plug in regularly to realize the efficiency advantages, the vehicle carries a meaningful weight penalty when driven predominantly on gasoline

Options, towing and pricing

  • Towing: Not rated for towing (battery weight and packaging)
  • Base pricing differential: The plug-in hybrid costs about $8,600 more than a comparable GLC 300 4MATIC; base 350e starts near $59,000, while a well-optioned test car approached ~$74,000. (MSRP depends on trim and options.)

Competitors and market positioning

The GLC 350e is pitched against other compact luxury PHEVs such as the Lexus NX plug-in, Volvo XC60 PHEV, and Audi's Q5 PHEV. Where Mercedes gains an edge is electric-only range, the GLC 350e offers class-leading EV range that approaches small battery EV territory, making it attractive to buyers who want substantial daily EV capability without foregoing an internal combustion backup.

Verdict: who should consider the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e?

The GLC 350e is an excellent option for buyers who want an authentic plug-in experience without the range anxiety of a pure EV. Its best-in-class electric range makes it practical for many daily commutes and short trips on electricity alone. Trade-offs include significant extra weight, reduced cargo flexibility, and a notable price premium versus gasoline-only GLCs and some rival PHEVs.

For prospective buyers who will commit to regular charging, the GLC 350e is a strong, luxurious choice: quiet, refined and technologically current. Buyers seeking the sportiest handling, lowest curb weight or maximum cargo flexibility might prefer non-PHEV alternatives in the class. Those already ready to go fully electric should weigh the cost and compromise of carrying a heavy battery versus choosing Mercedes' forthcoming or existing EV options.