The GLC 350e plug-in hybrid, discontinued after the 2020 model year, returns to the Mercedes-Benz lineup for 2025 replete with 4Motion all-wheel drive and a class-leading range of up to 54 miles in fully electric mode.
GLC 350e is a compact luxury SUV chock-full of the handsome design elements, desirable comfort and convenience features, and sophisticated technology the Mercedes brand embodies.
The GLC 350e hybrid powertrain has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, electric motor, and 24.8 kWh battery pack. Combined total output is 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The ensemble does a commendable job, performing its complex interactions seamlessly, helping to deliver a perpetually smooth ride. GLC 350e’s handling lives up to the same standard, with great stability and a sporty attitude.
There are three trim levels: base GLC 350e, GLC 350e Exclusive, and GLC 350e Pinnacle. Pricing starts at $59,900.
I drove the base model and didn’t sense any deprivation, maybe because of the $12,400 in optional features. But then I found out the Exclusive comes with a Burmester 3D surround sound system with sound personalization, and felt a twinge of heartache.
All models come with the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system with new-generation voice control (“Hey, Mercedes”), including natural language understanding and keyword activation. The system includes a 12.3-inch driver display, 11.9-inch center touchscreen, navigation, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, and wireless phone charging.
The MBUX system can be a bit vexing, and the lack of backup controls like knobs and buttons is largely to blame. Nearly every operation involves capacitive touch.
There was a little episode with voice command. During a song on SiriusXM, I said “Hey Mercedes” and the music stopped (indicating she was about to ask how she could help) but she ignored it. The music had been on pretty loud, so I repeated the command in a yell. Still nothing. So I just went with the capacitive touch option, no problem.
It didn’t occur to me until just now that maybe I had inadvertently disabled voice command when I was toggling around with other features. Something like this is never out of the question.
2025 MERCEDES-BENZ GLC 350e
Base price: $59,900
Price as driven: $73,450
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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