Though Mercedes’ upper-tier electrified EQ EV sales haven’t done so well in the past year, the German luxury manufacturer is hoping the all-new GLC 350e 4MATIC will fare better as consumer demand for PHEVs increases.

It helps that the crossover shares the same design language inside and out with its handsome 300 internal-combustion sibling the standard GLC, rather than going in the futuristic egg-style direction as some of the aforementioned polarizing zero-emissions models in the lineup. The single matte grey louvre across the grille flanks a large three star round emblem, surrounded by a black-framed mesh grille bundled in the $3,900 AMG Line package. This option also includes 20-inch AMG five-spoke wheels, body colour fender cladding, sport brakes, dark exterior trim pieces and more.

The interior has a distinct look compared to the rest of the portfolio featuring a large 11.9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen and a wing-like dashboard shape extending out from the centre console area. There aren’t many physical controls save for a small strip of adjustments beneath the display for driving dynamic settings and volume. As par for the course, ambient lighting illuminates the entire cabin — courtesy of the Exclusive Trim add-on (+ $3,800) — even inside the round air vents.

One criticism is the wireless charging pad is tucked quite deep at the front of the covered centre console and is a little tricky to access, especially if other items are stored in the space. In terms of passenger comfort the mid-size SUV is perfect for smaller families, and extras such as the ENERGIZING seat kinetics help make longer commutes tolerable by automatically shifting the cushion and backrest position during a pre-set time interval to reduce fatigue. The next best thing to full massaging capability.

Though the vehicle also utilizes a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mill, the plug-in hybrid adds an electric motor and 24.8-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Output is rated at 313 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, a big improvement compared to the 300’s 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The performance is adequate, but the engine sounds like it’s struggling a bit when the stored energy runs out.

Over a week of driving in mixed city and highway conditions I averaged 8.1 L/100 km of fuel economy. E-range is advertised at approximately 87 kilometres on a full charge, however expect significantly less in colder weather while electronics and heated devices are on. As a nice bonus, DC fast charging is supported up to 60 kilowatts.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e retails for MSRP $69,737.50 and is a good alternative for buyers seeking an economical premium crossover without having to worry about range anxiety on road trips.