Mercedes Electric SUV Offers Luxury and Performance at a Premium Price
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Mercedes-Benz saw a 61% surge in global electric and electrified vehicle sales in the third quarter, with these models comprising almost a quarter of its new car sales. The new electric GLC SUV, now available in Israel, offers luxury, advanced technology, and a range exceeding 600 km, with the top model costing 560,000 shekels. Despite its premium features and performance, it faces significant competition from more affordable electric SUVs.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Mercedes-Benz reported a 61% increase in global electric and electrified vehicle sales in Q3.
- The new electric Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV is now available in Israel.
- The GLC offers a range exceeding 600 km and impressive acceleration in its top trim.
- The luxury electric SUV starts at approximately 430,000 shekels, with the top model at 560,000 shekels.
- The vehicle faces strong competition from less expensive electric SUVs from Chinese brands.
Mercedes-Benz reported a significant 61% year-over-year increase in global sales of its electric and electrified vehicles for the third quarter. Electrified models, including plug-in hybrids, now account for nearly a quarter of the company's new vehicle sales. The new electric Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV, recently launched in Israel, is a key contributor to this trend, particularly in Europe and the United States.
The GLC's exterior design retains Mercedes' familiar styling, featuring a large, illuminated grille and advanced LED lighting. The interior offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample legroom and headroom, suitable for various passengers. Higher trims boast an expansive dashboard screen, while all versions feature Mercedes' AI-powered infotainment system, which is well-organized and customizable. The vehicle's interior is finished with high-quality materials like leather and polished aluminum, complemented by excellent noise insulation.
The electric GLC is available with multiple powertrain and battery options, all offering a range exceeding 600 kilometers. The top-tier 400 model, with dual motors producing 489 horsepower, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. This model features a 94 kWh battery, providing a real-world range of over 500 kilometers even with strong air conditioning use. Charging is rapid, with DC fast charging up to approximately 330 kW and home charging taking about 5 hours for a full charge.
On the road, the approximately 2.5-ton SUV handles with surprising agility, thanks to its low center of gravity and rear-wheel steering, which aids maneuverability in tight spaces. The ride is smooth, though the comfort-oriented suspension can lead to some secondary bouncing. The vehicle is equipped with advanced sensors supporting near-autonomous driving functions, with features like automatic parking and impressive "brake-by-wire" systems.
The base model GLC starts at around 430,000 shekels, while the more luxurious dual-motor version driven in the review costs 560,000 shekels. While positioned as a premium electric crossover, it faces stiff competition from similarly equipped but less expensive electric SUVs from Chinese manufacturers.