Mercedes-Benz Electrifies an Icon: A First Look at the New GLC with EQ Technology
The automotive world has been waiting, and on September 7th at the IAA Munich 2025, Mercedes-Benz delivered. The successor to the EQC is finally here, but with a significant shift in branding. Instead of a separate EQ model, the new all-electric SUV proudly joins the core lineup as the GLC with EQ Technology. This move signals Mercedes’ strategy to integrate its electric advancements directly into its most popular models, solidifying the new GLC as a true benchmark for electric luxury. With a market launch slated for early 2026 and an estimated price starting around €70,000, this vehicle is poised to redefine its segment.
A Bold New Face for a New Era
The new GLC with EQ Technology introduces a fresh Mercedes design language: "Sensual Clarity." This philosophy is immediately apparent in the vehicle's striking front end. The iconic grille has been reimagined with three distinct elements: a wide chrome frame, a sleek smoked-glass texture, and integrated contour lighting. For a more dynamic look, an optional version features 942 backlit dots that can create animated light sequences. This bold design, which Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener says "redefines the face of our brand," gives the electric GLC a distinct, unmistakable presence.
In a welcome departure from earlier electric models that prioritized aerodynamics above all else, the new GLC boasts a more angular and robust silhouette. It maintains elegant curves but adds a sense of strength and character that makes it stand out on the road. The rear is equally expressive, with two-part taillights featuring a unique star light signature, ensuring the GLC is recognizable from any angle.
Power and Unrivaled Range
Beneath its polished exterior, the new GLC is built on an advanced 800-volt architecture, which enables blistering charging speeds. Its substantial 94 kWh battery powers a robust all-wheel-drive system, delivering an impressive 360 kW (489 hp) and allowing the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
But the real showstopper is its range. The GLC with EQ Technology boasts an exceptional WLTP range of up to 713 km, effectively eliminating range anxiety. When it’s time to charge, its remarkable 330 kW charging power can add up to 303 km of range in a mere 10 minutes. A two-speed automatic transmission and air suspension ensure that every mile is efficient and comfortable. Adding to its versatility, the electric GLC offers an outstanding towing capacity of up to 2.4 tonnes—a best-in-class figure that sets it apart from the competition.
The Digital Cockpit and Interior Sanctuary
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a luxurious, tech-forward sanctuary. The new GLC offers the option of the magnificent 39.1-inch Hyperscreen with the latest MB.OS, creating a seamless, modern infotainment experience. For standard models, the MBUX Superscreen provides a compelling alternative with a 10.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14-inch central infotainment display, and a 14-inch passenger display.
Responding to customer feedback, Mercedes has also reintroduced physical controls on the steering wheel, providing a more intuitive and tactile way for drivers to interact with the vehicle. The interior is bathed in ambient lighting, while a panoramic roof enhances the airy and open atmosphere. The new MBUX system, powered by the Unity Engine, is not just about visuals—it’s smart. With artificial intelligence from Microsoft and Google, the voice assistant can now hold conversations and understand complex contexts, making it more intuitive than ever before.
The added eight centimeters in the wheelbase translates directly into more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. Practicality is also a priority, with a spacious 570-liter trunk (expandable to 1,740 liters) and a convenient 128-liter "frunk" at the front. For safety, the GLC is equipped with a comprehensive suite of up to ten exterior cameras, five radar sensors, and twelve ultrasonic sensors, enabling advanced parking assistance and other cutting-edge safety features.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is more than just a car—it’s a statement about the future of electric mobility: one where luxury, design, and innovation are seamlessly integrated into a single, high-performance vehicle.