This is the New GLC Electric, or more fully, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic Electric. The phrase "with EQ Technology" should be dropped because EQ caused confusion in the early electric model lineup worldwide, so simplifying it to just "Electric" makes it clearer. This is an important model from the three-pointed star brand set to challenge the BMW iX3, debuting in October 2026. Rumors also suggest it will be assembled in Thailand to help price the electric New GLC. Winner of the 2026 Top Gear Car of the Year, this battle is truly a "clash of titans" in terms of body size, range, equipment, driving dynamics, and sales figures. The combustion engine versions of the GLC, both petrol and diesel, have been the brand's top revenue and sales generators. Now, Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicle mission has regained focus after the recent New CLA revived the brand’s image following lukewarm responses to the EQS, EQE, and EQC. Expectations for this SUV are sky-high, and it looks set to exceed them.
This electric GLC shares many parts and technologies with the CLA, but its standout feature is that it is the brand's first model built on the new MB.EA-M platform. The "M" stands for Midsize, reflecting its medium size, under the MB.EA or Mercedes-Benz Electric Architecture. This architecture will also underpin the next-generation New C-Class Electric.
Mercedes-Benz engineers revealed that this car was designed with an electric-first architecture from the ground up. However, the brand still prepares a variety of powertrains to meet different customer needs. This means hybrid, petrol, and even diesel engines will be offered in some markets, following the exact strategy used with the New CLA. For now, at launch, the focus is solely on the fully electric version, which will definitely enter the Thai market in October.
At launch, Mercedes-Benz offers only one variant: the GLC 400 4Matic, equipped with dual electric motors producing 483 horsepower and all-wheel drive. The front motor automatically disengages when not needed to save energy. A 2-speed gearbox is installed on the rear axle to enhance energy management at high speeds. The lithium-ion battery has a usable capacity of 94 kWh, claiming a maximum WLTP range of about 651 kilometers per charge. Surpassing the 600-kilometer mark is impressive, though this still lags behind the formidable BMW iX3, which reaches about 804 kilometers due to its larger 108 kWh battery.
The system uses an 800-volt architecture, like its Bavarian competitor, supporting DC fast charging up to 330 kW. It can add approximately 300 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes of rapid charging. Luxury options include air suspension borrowed from the flagship S-Class, along with rear-wheel steering offering a 4.5-degree turn angle, reducing the turning circle to just 11.2 meters. The powerful torque also enables towing of trailers up to 2.4 tons.
Inside, the dashboard dazzles—not just with screens, but with a massive 39.1-inch Hyperscreen stretching from the left A-pillar to the right side. This integrates the driver’s instrument cluster, central display, and front passenger screen into one seamless unit. While other brands have reduced screen sizes to avoid overwhelming drivers, Mercedes-Benz boldly embraces a cinema-level IMAX entertainment experience, resulting in a visually stunning effect.
The infotainment system runs on the MB.OS operating system with AI-enhanced responsiveness, featuring an intuitive menu. Initially, the interface might feel overwhelming, but Mercedes-Benz proudly reintroduces physical buttons on the steering wheel after customer feedback, somewhat contrasting with the futuristic design. The interior assembly is flawless, adorned with genuine metallic trims throughout. This is the brand’s first model with a 100% vegan-certified interior, approved by the Vegan Society. Rear cabin space is more comfortable with increased headroom and legroom, thanks to an 84 mm longer wheelbase than the previous GLC. The trunk space is larger, and there is even a front trunk (frunk) for additional storage.
The Sport trim features 20-inch alloy wheels and a classic round steering wheel, while other trims offer a D-shaped wheel. It includes a set of three separate screens: a 10.3-inch driver display, a 14-inch central screen, and a 14-inch digital panel for the front passenger. Note these are not combined into the single 39.1-inch Hyperscreen but are separate rectangular displays laid out on the same plane. Pricing starts at £60,350, roughly 2.65 million Thai baht before import taxes, about 66,000 baht more expensive than the entry-level BMW iX3.
Higher trims include the AMG Line at £63,350 (approximately 2.83 million baht), the AMG Line Premium at £68,350 (about 3.05 million baht) which is the first to include the giant Hyperscreen as standard, the AMG Line Premium Plus at £70,850 (around 3.16 million baht), and the top Premier Edition priced at £73,350 (approximately 3.27 million baht). These prices exclude import taxes. If locally assembled at Thonburi Assembly Plant, the GLC400’s price should be competitive with combustion engine models released nearly four years earlier.
It is immediately clear that the New GLC Electric is crucial to Mercedes-Benz’s future, with the brand investing heavily to create a premium, cutting-edge electric vehicle without cutting corners for profit. The car is packed with advanced technology and an abundance of screens. At the same time, as a Mercedes competing against the highly capable BMW iX3, the GLC400 4Matic Electric is expected to deliver a smooth, refined, and composed driving experience. Mercedes-Benz aims to set a new benchmark for comfort and ride quality, and it appears to have succeeded.
Regarding the massive in-car cinema-like screen, opinions may vary between finding it overwhelming or stunningly advanced—largely a matter of personal taste. What’s undeniable is that the latest operating system runs smoothly and intuitively, better predicting user needs. The AI voice control is smarter than most systems currently on the market. However, it still faces the classic challenge of voice command systems today: while the idea is clever, how often will drivers actually converse with their car?
Overall, this package is almost flawless. The fast charging capability is astonishing, vehicle performance is more than sufficient, versatility meets real-world needs, and build quality is impeccable. Importantly, pricing is close to the competitor iX3, preventing a significant price gap. Although the 650-kilometer range will satisfy most users, the roughly 160-kilometer deficit compared to the iX3 remains a psychological advantage for BMW when customers compare specs at showrooms. When it arrives in Thailand, it will surely spark an exciting rivalry among luxury car enthusiasts.
Arkom Rumsuwan
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