2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ Debuts as Show-Stopping Electric Crossover
Following the EQC that we never got and the EQB that was recently discontinued after a brief career, Mercedes-Benz strikes back big time with the debut of a much more sophisticated and more convincing electric compact SUV that involves a reinvention of its best-selling vehicle.
Unveiled in a world premiere at a separate event away from IAA Mobility in Munich, just a few days after the equally new BMW iX3, the GLC with EQ Technology—as it’s officially called—will launch in Canada sometime in the second half of 2026.
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New Architecture, Bold New Design
Built electric-first, this GLC is designed to turn heads and make a strong visual statement. On the outside, it’s the first Mercedes-Benz to feature that huge new front grille with an illuminated contour and hundreds of small, pixel-shaped lights. Meanwhile, the daytime running light signature with the three-pointed stars is similar to the one on the new CLA.
Inside, the “Sensual Purity” aesthetics are taken to another level, starting with an all-new, optional 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen digital interface that is sure to wow occupants. It’s the largest continuous screen in any Mercedes-Benz vehicle to date and it offers a selection of 11 background motifs. Active and customizable ambient lighting is really nice, too, but don’t miss the new panoramic roof with optional Sky Control technology consisting of 162 stars integrated into the glass surface. You’d think you’re sitting in a Rolls-Royce.
Thanks to the 8.4 cm of extra wheelbase, passengers will enjoy increased legroom and a more comfortable ride. Headroom is also more generous. And get this: the company has raised the bar for material selection including an optional Vegan Package that features elegant interior materials certified by The Vegan Society—a world first.
Mercedes-Benz says that cargo capacity ranges from 569 to 1,739 litres depending on rear seat position. There’s an additional 127 litres of storage in the frunk, which can be opened partially electrically via touch control.
Big Brain Meets Big Muscle
Much like the BMW iX3 uses a super-computer called “Heart of Joy,” the electric GLC boasts an ultra-powerful, AI-driven operating system (MB.OS) that integrates and controls every aspect of the vehicle—from infotainment and to MB.DRIVE advanced driver assistance systems to comfort features and charging. It’s said to be extremely precise, versatile and customizable, with the ability to think, learn and evolve with the driver.
Customers can look forward to the top-of-the-range model at market launch, namely the GLC 400 4MATIC with 483 horsepower, up to 713 km of range (based on WLTP testing) and maximum towing of 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs). Impressed? You should be.
Mercedes-Benz also promises ultra-fast charging thanks to the 800-volt architecture: 10 minutes will be enough to regain around 300 km of range in the best-case scenario. A DC converter will enable charging at stations that operate on a 400-volt system.
On the road, drivers will enjoy redesigned and more comfortable seats, Energizing Comfort programs with animations and sounds, four-level regenerative braking, adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. Off-road, the Terrain mode will make things easier, especially when complemented by the transparent hood function that provides a virtual view of beneath the front of the vehicle.
We could go on and on, of course, but let’s stop right here for now. As mentioned earlier, sales of the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology won't start until the second half of 2026. Specifications and equipment for the Canadian market will be announced closer to launch. One thing’s for sure: we expect an epic battle with the BMW iX3 and the Porsche Macan Electric.