First Drive: Could the Mercedes GLC Electric mark a new age for battery-powered SUVs?

What is it?

Back in 2018, Mercedes attempted to channel some of the popularity of the GLC into an electric model, called the EQC. Now, however, the German brand has introduced a new electric version of the GLC which bears the same name, in an attempt to close the gap between it and the conventional combustion-engined version. We’ve been trying it out to see what has changed.

What’s new?

It means that the GLC can now deliver more space than before, alongside a very competitive range and an impressively high rate of charge – but more on that shortly.

What’s under the bonnet?

But in 4Matic guise, you’re also getting an impressively quick 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.1 seconds, meaning this family SUV will outpace many hot hatches. A maximum charge speed of up to 330kW means that a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be completed in 22 minutes if you’re hooked up to a rapid charger.

What’s it like to drive?

Our test car came with air suspension as standard and that helps this car to practically glide over the road ahead and make the whole driving experience feel even more upmarket. There’s all the performance that you could want as and when you need it, too, though for the most part you simply relax into the GLC’s more refined driving experience and leave it to whisk along.

How does it look?

Many areas of the GLC’s design are quite straightforward, though. For instance, the charger port is located just where you’d expect the fuel filler to be, rather than being hidden somewhere different as is often the case on large electric SUVs. Our car’s Lavender Silver Metallic colourway really suited the look of the car, too.

What’s it like inside?

Space is great, mind you. Rear-seat passengers get plenty of legroom and headroom, while a 520-litre boot is matched to a usefully large 128-litre ‘frunk’ to help make this GLC a very practical option.

What’s the spec like?

We’d imagine that most people will be drawn to the GLC 250 models, which get a single, less powerful motor but a very long range. They still get a great level of standard equipment but a far more approachable starting price of £55,495.

Verdict

The GLC electric feels like a genuinely game-changing EV. It is just as practical, spacious and well-made as you’d expect a Mercedes of this type to be, yet with its long range and excellent charging speed it’ll prove no less usable than a typical petrol or diesel version.

The GLC Electric’s ride quality trumps rival offerings by some margin and, when combined with its well-made and upmarket interior, helps to make this car a very appealing prospect.