Did you think that just because Mercedes unveiled the new GLC with EQ Technology at the Munich Motor Show in Germany earlier this year, that it was done with this model? To put it in as few words as possible, no. The brand’s new electric premium compact crossover is offered as a five-seater, and the automaker will soon launch a seven-seat version. This is neither a rumor nor a report, as the model is currently in its testing phase, with our spy photographers nabbing it in a premiere at an undisclosed location somewhere on the right side of the Atlantic Ocean.
Mercedes-Benz GLC – 7 Seater with EQ Tech // SPY PHOTOS #EV
Did you think that just because Mercedes unveiled the new GLC with EQ Technology at the Munich Motor Show in Germany earlier this year, that it was done with this model? To put it in as few words as possible, no.
The brand’s new electric premium compact crossover is offered as a five-seater, and the automaker will soon launch a seven-seat version. This is neither a rumor nor a report, as the model is currently in its testing phase, with our spy photographers nabbing it in a premiere at an undisclosed location somewhere on the right side of the Atlantic Ocean.
Since our man with the cam snapped the tester next to the regular new-gen GLC EV, it is very easy to spot the differences, even if the former was wrapped in camouflage. For instance, the roofline is slightly longer and does not arch toward the rear that much. The rear windows and the rear three-quarter windows are larger, and so are the rear three-quarter panels. The tailgate is also different, and the rear overhang is longer.
These modifications were necessary in order for the three-pointed star company to add an extra row of seats at the rear, and to make sure that adults can use it, albeit if they are not too tall, and on rather short journeys, as seven is definitely a crowd on long drives. Moreover, besides featuring three rows of seats, this version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology will also have a large cargo area, so the hauling capability has also been increased.
Production of the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is set to commence in 2026. It debuted in a single configuration, called the GLC 400 4Matic, which features a bi-motor setup rated at a combined 483 hp (360 kW/490 ps), which drives both axles. It features an 800V tech and has a 94 kWh battery pack that gives it a range of 443 miles (713 km) on the WLTP cycle. Recharging it at 330 kW for 10 minutes will give it a range of 186 miles (300 km).
Needless to say, Mercedes will eventually expand the powertrain family of the all-new battery-electric GLC, and its seven-seat version should get the same assemblies when it debuts, presumably in 2026. And if the brand’s rival to the BMW iX3 is not your cup of tea, then you should know that the automaker still offers the regular ICE-powered GLC.
The second-generation GLC was presented in mid-2022 and shares its MRA2 nuts and bolts with the latest C-Class, as well as the larger E-Class, the discontinued CLS, and the old GT 4-Door Coupe. Mercedes is now preparing a mid-cycle refresh for this model, which is also expected to debut next year.
