New Mercedes GLC revealed with huge illuminated grille

Mercedes has already shown us the grille of the new GLC, using a close-up to alert the internet that a fresh version of its best-selling model was imminent. The rest of the car has now been unveiled, finally putting that grille into context.

Mercedes GLC grille and exterior design

And yes, it is enormous. Select the relevant options in the configurator and it is illuminated, with 942 individual dots capable of animation to welcome the driver and say farewell. Naturally, nobody wants a car that fails to say goodbye. The three-pointed star at the front can light up as well.

Mercedes says the new appearance “preserves the essence of Mercedes-Benz”, abandoning the rounded, pebble-like styling of the EQC and other ill-fated EQ models in favour of cues from the brand’s past. It is intended as a contemporary interpretation of the 600 Pullman, W108 and W126 front ends. Expect this design language to appear elsewhere in the range.

GLC with EQ Technology: electric power and range

What else has changed for the GLC? It launches as an EV. The aforementioned EQC has gone, replaced by the ‘GLC with EQ Technology’. Mercedes says the model was “built electric-first”, although it will also offer “a diverse portfolio of drive systems for every customer requirement”. In some markets, that means hybrid, petrol and possibly even diesel versions will arrive later. It is broadly the same strategy Mercedes has adopted for the new CLA, with boss Ola Källenius telling TG that the company is now “building to create flexibility in uncertain times”.

“I wish I had a crystal ball, but I don’t,” said the Swede.

At launch, the range begins with the GLC 400 4Matic. Its two electric motors deliver 483bhp and drive all four wheels, although the front motor disconnects when it is not needed. A two-speed transmission at the rear is designed to boost efficiency, while the 94kWh usable lithium-ion battery delivers a substantial WLTP range of 713 km on one charge. That places it among the longest-range electric cars on sale, although it remains some way short of the new BMW iX3’s 805 km WLTP figure.

Like the BMW, it uses an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling 330kW rapid charging and the addition of 299 km of range in only 10 minutes. Owners using Mercedes’ own charging parks can also reserve a charger through the car. Air suspension borrowed from the S-Class is optional and uses Google Maps data to keep the vehicle as low as it can for as long as it can. Optional rear-wheel steering, with 4.5 degrees of movement, cuts the turning circle to 11.2 metres. Towing capacity is up to 2.4 tonnes.

Mercedes also claims that, with as much as 300kW of brake-energy recuperation available, more than 99 per cent of deceleration will be regenerative. A heat pump is standard equipment, which is welcome as winter approaches.

Despite that vast grille, the new GLC achieves a drag coefficient of 0.26Cd. Rather more streamlined than expected. Otherwise, the styling is largely as anticipated, with an AMG Line offered for buyers who want a slightly sportier appearance. Everything is relative, naturally. Sophisticated LED lighting features at both ends, while the rear lamps receive the same star-inspired treatment seen on the new CLA.

Mercedes GLC interior and Hyperscreen

Inside, the wheelbase is 84mm longer than that of the current GLC, creating additional legroom and headroom. Boot capacity is 570 litres, complemented by 128 litres of space in the front boot.

But honestly, boot space is unlikely to be why you are here. You have probably noticed the infotainment display. It is so large that it might be visible from space. High-spec GLC versions gain a new, uninterrupted Hyperscreen spanning 99.3 cm across the dashboard. It employs ‘innovative matrix-backlight technology’ for exceptional sharpness, while 11 selectable ‘styles’ serve as background motifs. These also alter the ambient lighting and instrument displays.

A panoramic roof comes as standard, while switchable glass technology is available as an option. This allows individual sections to become opaque, or illuminates 162 stars above the occupants’ heads. Those are Mercedes-Benz-spec stars, naturally - look through the real glass and you will probably spot more than 162.

A fully vegan cabin is also available and has certification from The Vegan Society. Mercedes is making considerable fuss about listening to customers and restoring buttons to the steering wheel. Unless we are mistaken, though, there are two small physical scroll controls alongside a collection of the same haptic switches as before. Doh!

Mercedes also says that, using artificial intelligence supplied by Microsoft and Google, “talking to the MBUX Virtual Assistant is like chatting with a friend”. Given the energy consumed by such AI systems, though, you might be better off using an old 6.2-litre AMG V8 and accepting that it will not answer your questions.