As part of its recent refreshes to all the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the plug-in hybrid version, the 2020 Mercedes GLC 300e 4Matic, which premiered at the 2019 International Motor Show in Frankfurt. 

Exterior design

The midsize luxury SUV is designed to have an off-road look with sporty features. The chrome trim running from the front end to the rear is standard, and the radiator grille is heavily contoured.

The LED High Performance headlights and LED taillights are now standard. The headlights have been made smaller and flatter, making the daytime driving lights more prominent. Multibeam LED headlights are an option.

The GLC 300e 4Matic has also been designed with a lowered rear axle for the integrated battery. The placement of the battery allows for a large, flat trunk area with a capacity just slightly less than in other Mercedes GLCs at 14 to 51 cubic feet.

GLC 300e Specs

As a hybrid, the GLC 300e has both a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Together, they have a combined output of 315 hp and peak torque of 516 lb-ft thanks to Mercedes-Benz’s third-generation plug-in hybrid electric vehicle technology. 

One new feature on the GLC 300e are its two clutches. The lockup clutch is integrated into the torque converter and functions as a starting device. The second clutch is installed between the engine and the electric motor. The SUV’s seven-speed transmission also has been upgraded to a nine-speed one.

Third-Generation PHEVs

The GLC 300e is one of Mercedes’ new third-generation plug-in hybrids. The electric motor has been redesigned, providing better range. The updated electric motor also offers more power and increased torque density.

Plug-in hybrids give customers the efficiency of all-electric for shorter trips without the range anxiety that comes from driving longer distances. The SUV’s operating strategy picks the right mode for the route. Plug-in hybrids are a design transition step as cars develop toward emissions-free driving. Mercedes-Benz continues to develop plug-in hybrids under its EQ Power label.

Electric power

The battery capacity has been increased to 13.5 kWh, and the charging capacity has increased as well, from 3.6 kW to 7.4 kW. A discharged battery can be recharged in 1.5 hours on a fast-charger or about five hours using a regular domestic outlet. The GLC 300e’s battery gives it about a 25-mile range under Europe’s WLTP standard.

Performance

Mercedes says the GLC 300e will run from 0-to-62 mph in about 5.7 seconds. It will have a top speed of 143 mph with the help of the engine and more than 81 mph with the electric motor. It should be able to tow about 440 lbs.

Technology

On the interior of the roomy GLC 300e, Mercedes equipped the MBUX infotainment system, as well as a number of advanced driving assistance systems. The MBUX infotainment system can even help find a spot to recharge the vehicle. The driver can just ask where the nearest charging station is.

Sales

The GLC 300e is scheduled to go on sale in Europe early in 2020. Its availability in other locations has not been revealed. Mercedes-Benz plans to have ten more plug-in hybrids by the end of 2019 and 20 in 2020.