The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 4MATIC G-TRONIC PLUS, produced from December 2016 to August 2018, marked Mercedes-Benz’s initial foray into the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) market within the popular GLC Coupe (C253) range. Positioned as a premium offering, it aimed to blend the practicality of a compact SUV with enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This variant was a crucial element of Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to provide electrified options across its model lineup, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers while upholding the brand’s reputation for luxury and performance. The C253 GLC Coupe itself presented a stylistic alternative to the standard GLC SUV, featuring a more sloping roofline and a sportier aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLC |
| Generation | GLC Coupe (C253) |
| Type | GLC 350e (320 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | December, 2016 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.5-2.7 l/100 km (94.1 – 87.1 US mpg, 113 – 104.6 UK mpg, 40 – 37 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 59-64 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 274.5 Nm/tonne |
| Electric motor power | 116 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 340 Nm @ 0-2000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 0-2000 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 320 Hp |
| System torque | 560 Nm (413.03 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 211 Hp |
| Power per litre | 106 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 350 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16 l (16.91 US qt | 14.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2625 kg (5787.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 4732 mm (186.3 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 831 mm (32.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1028 mm (40.47 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Approach angle | 20.8° |
| Departure angle | 18.6° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLC 350e employs a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, designated the M 274.920. This engine generates 211 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Direct fuel injection and multi-spark ignition contribute to efficient combustion. Positioned between the engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is a 116 horsepower electric motor, capable of producing 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output reaches a substantial 320 horsepower and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor is powered by an 8.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing an all-electric range of approximately 19-22 miles (30-35 kilometers) depending on driving conditions. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is specifically tuned to work in harmony with the electric motor, delivering smooth and efficient gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The GLC 350e delivers a distinctive driving experience when contrasted with its conventionally powered counterparts. In electric mode, it offers near-silent acceleration and instant torque, making it well-suited for urban driving. Engaging hybrid mode allows the vehicle to intelligently integrate power from both the engine and the electric motor, optimizing fuel economy and performance. The combined output results in brisk acceleration – approximately 5.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph – positioning it competitively within the performance SUV segment. While the added weight of the battery pack marginally impacts handling compared to lighter GLC models, the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability. The G-TRONIC PLUS transmission provides responsive shifts, although some drivers reported a slight delay during kickdown maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLC 350e 4MATIC generally came generously equipped, reflecting its premium status. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system with a central display screen. Optional extras encompassed a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist), and a variety of interior trim choices. The exterior styling mirrored that of the standard GLC Coupe, with subtle badging indicating its hybrid nature.
Chassis & Braking
The GLC 350e features a sophisticated chassis design, incorporating a four-wheel independent suspension. The front suspension utilizes a three-link configuration, while the rear employs a multi-link setup. This arrangement provides a comfortable ride while maintaining commendable handling characteristics. Braking is managed by ventilated discs on all four wheels, complemented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, aiding in battery recharging and further enhancing efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLC 350e received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was lauded for its fuel efficiency, smooth ride quality, and refined interior. However, some reviewers pointed out that the all-electric range was somewhat limited compared to certain competitors. Compared to the GLC 300 (the base model), the 350e offered significantly improved fuel economy and a power increase, albeit at a higher price. When benchmarked against other plug-in hybrid SUVs, such as the BMW X5 xDrive40e, the GLC 350e presented a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and efficiency.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e represented a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s electrification journey. While superseded by newer PHEV models boasting increased battery capacity and electric range, the C253 GLC 350e remains a capable and well-regarded vehicle in the used car market. The powertrain, despite its inherent complexities, has demonstrated reasonable reliability, with the most frequently reported issues relating to the hybrid system’s software and battery degradation over time. Its blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency continues to attract buyers seeking a premium plug-in hybrid SUV.
