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The electric Mercedes GLC delivers strong performance, long-range potential and an exceptionally quiet ride, while the new GLB offers seven seats, useful storage and a lower price for family buyers.
Mercedes-Benz is expanding its electric SUV range with two closely related but distinctly positioned models, the GLC 400 4MATIC and the new GLB. Both arrive with the familiar Mercedes emphasis on comfort, technology and premium presentation, but they appeal to different priorities.
The GLC is the more sophisticated and refined choice, while the GLB offers greater practicality, seven seats and a significantly lower entry price. Together, they show how Mercedes is using several electric vehicle formats to cover a broader range of family and luxury buyers. The GLC initially attracted criticism because of its large illuminated front grille, which appeared oversized in early photographs. In person, however, the grille integrates more successfully with the rest of the design than online reactions suggested.
The electric GLC has a more sharply inclined rear section than the existing combustion and hybrid versions, and its styling has clear links to the new electric C-Class. Both models use Mercedes electric vehicle architecture designed to accommodate a large battery and deliver substantial driving range. In Ireland, the first electric GLC to arrive is the GLC 400 4MATIC, equipped with a 95kWh battery and an official range claim of up to 664 kilometres.
The cabin also caused controversy before launch because of its optional Hyperscreen, which places an exceptionally wide bank of displays across the dashboard. In everyday use, the screens sit relatively low and are less intrusive than expected, allowing the driver to maintain a clear view through the windscreen. Mercedes has also included a physical control that can switch off the passenger and central displays while leaving the driver's instruments active.
This is a particularly useful feature during night driving, when reducing reflections and distractions can make the interior more comfortable and safer to use. The GLC 400 4MATIC employs two electric motors producing 489 horsepower and 800Nm of torque. Despite weighing approximately 2,655 kilograms, it accelerates with considerable confidence. Its most impressive quality is not outright speed, however, but the extraordinary quietness of its ride.
Many electric vehicles eliminate engine noise only to reveal tyre roar, wind noise and cabin creaks. The GLC suppresses those sounds remarkably well, creating an exceptionally calm environment. Optional air suspension also handles damaged and uneven Irish roads with impressive composure, allowing only a slight shudder over particularly poor surfaces. The GLC is more accomplished as a long-distance cruiser than as a sporty cornering machine.
Its weight becomes noticeable under hard braking and through tight bends, and it is less entertaining than a BMW iX3. Nevertheless, its smoothness, silence and relaxed character give it a strong luxury appeal. Early testing suggested that the car could exceed 580 kilometres on a full charge in suitable conditions, although a longer evaluation is needed before drawing firm conclusions about real-world range.
Fast charging from 10 to 80 per cent can take as little as 22 minutes when connected to a sufficiently powerful charger. Pricing begins at €72,085 for the less powerful GLC 250, while the tested GLC 400 4MATIC costs €79,615. The GLB occupies a different role. Although it is similar in overall size to the GLC, it is based on a separate platform shared with the CLA.
Buyers can choose hybrid petrol or fully electric power, and the new GLB provides seven seats as standard. That seating capacity, along with a starting price of €59,355, gives it a clear practical and financial advantage. The rearmost seats are best suited to children, but the middle row can slide, fold and adjust to make better use of the available space.
The GLB has a 480-litre boot, smaller than the GLC's 520-litre luggage area, but its electric version adds a useful 127-litre storage compartment beneath the front bonnet. Compared with the polished GLC, the GLB feels less refined, yet it remains the more versatile option for families who value capacity and flexibility above luxury-grade quietness
Mercedes-Benz GLC Mercedes-Benz GLB Electric Suvs EV Range Luxury Cars
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