New Delhi:Mercedes-Benz has launched the GLC Electric in India, placing it as the entry-level model in its electric SUV range. Despite having the same
name as the conventional GLC, the new electric SUV is built on a dedicated EV architecture with a 400V electrical system.
The SUV has already received more than 1,000 bookings, as per Mercedes-Benz, and is reportedly sold out until March 2027. Customer deliveries are slated to start around Diwali. The India-spec model arrives in the GLC 400 4Matic configuration and is locally assembled.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Design and feature details
GLC comes with a nice, aggressive stance and is bigger than its ICE counterpart
One of the big elements of differentiation of the GLC Electric is its illuminated front grille. It has 914 individual lighting elements that display different animations when the vehicle is locked, unlocked or switched off. The design also takes inspiration from the upright chrome grilles seen on earlier Mercedes-Benz models, like the W 108 and W 114.
The headlamps and tail lamps feature LED lighting signatures incorporating the brand’s three-pointed star motif. The India-spec SUV also gets the AMG Line styling package as standard, bringing sportier front and rear bumpers along with 20-inch alloy wheels. Further, the exterior design comes with a relatively clean approach, with flowing body panels and minimal cladding.
At the back, it has a gloss-black panel connecting the tail-lamps and incorporates the Mercedes-Benz badge. The electric SUV is bigger than the combustion-powered GLC across all major dimensions. It is 140mm longer, 23mm wider and 12mm taller, while its wheelbase has increased by 84mm to 2,972mm.
Mercedes-Benz is offering six exterior paint choices: Sheer Blue, Lavender Silver, Obsidian Black, Opalite White Bright, Patagonia Red Metallic and Alpine Grey Solid. The latter three are part of the Manufaktur paint range.
Mercedes GLC interiors (international-spec)
The interior’s major highlight is the 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, which extends across the dashboard. Unlike conventional setups that combine multiple displays, this is a single continuous screen without visible bezels or separate sections. The large display also means that the interior has very few physical buttons, including controls for the climate system. However, the interface is said to offer sharp graphics and a responsive user experience. Owners can also choose from 11 display themes.
The rest of the cabin features a combination of wood, metal and leather finishes. The centre console gets black open-pore wood trim, while the air-conditioning vents feature knurled metallic detailing. The 15-speaker Burmester 3D sound system also gets intricately finished speaker grilles. The AMG Line package brings a sporty four-spoke steering wheel. Buyers can opt between Black, Beech Brown and Ivory Beige interior themes.
Other equipment includes a panoramic glass roof with illuminated star patterns, dual wireless charging pads, ambient lighting, AI-powered functions, a powered tailgate and electrically folding rear seats. The glass roof does not have a conventional sunshade, but its transparency can be adjusted electronically.
The front seats get heating and massage functions, although ventilation is not offered. The SUV also comes with Level 2 ADAS, supported by eight cameras and five radar sensors. Additional safety and convenience features include automatic parking assistance, a 360-degree camera and nine airbags.
For luggage, the GLC Electric offers a 570-litre boot along with a 128-litre front storage compartment.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric: Battery, range and performance
The GLC Electric is available in India as the GLC 400 4Matic. It uses a 94kWh battery pack that supplies power to two electric motors, one on each axle. This setup provides all-wheel drive and produces a combined 490hp and 800Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100kph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds. Despite being a family-oriented SUV weighing close to 2.5 tonnes, the electric GLC promises strong straight-line performance.
Another notable feature is its two-speed transmission. The first gear is intended to deliver stronger acceleration, while the second is designed to improve efficiency at higher speeds. The SUV has a claimed WLTP range of 711 km on a full charge. A 22kW AC charger is offered as standard, while its DC fast-charging capability supports charging at up to 330kW.
Mercedes-Benz claims that a 10-minute charging session can replenish around 300km of range when connected to a compatible charger.
The India-spec version does not have rear-wheel steering or air suspension. Instead, it comes with conventional passive dampers. The GLC Electric is currently unrivalled. However, the BMW iX3 is likely to arrive in India next year and could become one of its key competitors in the luxury electric SUV segment.
