2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Plug-in Hybrid

With new innovative EV Range and scintillating guise, this upcoming model is ready to grace the audience, which will give stiff competition to its rivals like Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC, and Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum. Here’s our take on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e that is soon going to be on sale in the market.

The GLC 350e is a stand-alone trim and does not offer any other procurable configurations, except for the one and only default version. The designers introduced only single trim in its killer portfolio as all the specifications are covered by GLC 350e only.

Now, since the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e is being carried forward to 2021 without any changes, the prices are also expected to remain the same as the 2020 model. This implies that the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e will cost $52,895, without any options. 

Model	2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e
MSRP	$52,895
Key Features	Dual-Zone Automatic Control
	7 inch touchscreen color display
	40/20/40-split rear seats with power folding
	Dynamic Select
	Power liftgate
	4MATIC all-wheel drive

The plug-in hybrid trim, GLC 350e trim starts at $52,895 and is loaded with cool gadgets and gizmos. The trim offers a plethora of standard and optional features in its portfolio; however optional features may cost a lot from your pocket. It offers prominent highlighted features such as 4MATIC all-wheel drive, Dual-Zone Automatic Control, and 40/20/40-split rear seats with power folding.

The iconic brand "Mercedes-Benz" which is known to amplify the palette of the automotive industry sounds opulent and reliable with its new plug-in hybrid GLC 350e which garners grand attention with its array of features and unique styling. GLC 350e is famed for showing a good scorecard in terms of terrific reliability ratings and ownership costs. Be it the J D Power reports or critique satisfaction reports, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e has been a favorite in the segment.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e has grown on to attract all types of users with varying tempers; the German auto marquee ensures the quality by meeting the two ends of luxury and performance. With a captivating engine and impeccable interior, this car enjoys dominance in the market. 

JD Power Reports are not officially out for the 2021 model yet, hence due to a lack of data, we would take the 2020 model as a reference point. As per J.D. Power report, the 1st-generation GLC scores an above-average predicted dealership experience rating of 83 out of 100 and managed to score 83 out of 100 in terms of quality and reliability rating. These ratings are of the highest standard which is capable of matching the level of its rivals.

Car prices vary from state to state all across the US. The main reasons being the different levels of state taxes as well as the destination charges and dealer discounts. However, the prices of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e are almost the same everywhere with just slight deviations, this feat in itself portrays the popularity of this Merc. 

Year	Year 1	Year 2	Year 3	Year 4	Year 5	Total
Tax Credit	$0	$0	$0	$0	$0	$0
Insurance	$1443	$1494	$1546	$1600	$1656	$7739
Maintenance	$289	$1039	$954	$2652	$2570	$7504
Repairs	$0	$0	$0	$1117	$1706	$2823
Taxes & Fees	$3027	$216	$193	$175	$175	$3786
Financing	$2580	$2076	$1536	$961	$348	$7501
Depreciation	$11,881	$4683	$3827	$4289	$2747	$28,427
Fuel	$1875	$1931	$1989	$2049	$2110	$9954
The real cost of ownership	$21,095	$11,439	$10,045	$12,843	$12,312	$67,734

Speaking of ownership costs, in the case of GLC 350e, you get hassle-free maintenance. The reports say that its repairs are not more burdensome than its level-headed rivals in the market. The average of the real ownership cost for the GLC 350e comes close to a total amount of $68,000 spread over a period of 5 years. This amount includes a number of costs such as insurance, taxes and dealership charges, depreciation, repairs, fuel, financing, etc.

When you have Benz GLC 350e in your parking place, you really need not worry about its recalls and safety concerns, as the brand firmly believes in removing the uncertainties faced in the previous models. We haven’t heard of any recalls this year but According to NHTSA, in the 2019 model, it issued recalls to fix the airbag problems.

Warranty

Germans really offer a handsome warranty coverage package in their catalog. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e comes with a sound warranty coverage, which offers compelling 4 years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first) limited warranty coverage and is known for long 4-year powertrain warranty. 

Criteria	Period
Limited warranty	4 years/ 50,000 miles; whichever is earlier
Powertrain warranty	4 years/ 50,000 miles; whichever is earlier
Complimentary scheduled maintenance	Nil

GLC 350e has not settled for less in case of warranty criteria and ensures peace of mind which gives assurance that your car is protected against the uncertainties. However, what rather comes as a surprise is that a brand as premium as Mercedes-Benz, doesn’t offer scheduled complimentary maintenance with the GLC 350e. 

Miles Per dollar

Miles Per dollar helps in estimating the budget of the buyer and provides a realistic approach to buy vehicles. But looking over the data cost to drive 1 mile is 10.0984 dollars, so to put things in perspective GLC 350e offers around 10.16 miles per dollar.

Since the Mercedes-Benz is offered only in one trim i.e. 350e, there’s no scope of getting choosy here. However, for the buyers, the car packs in all the bells and whistles you’d expect from such a hybrid car.

Is buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e a good idea?

The brand like Mercedes never faces the conundrum in case of reselling, as no or few recalls have been issued against this model. Although buying this car accompanies huge maintenance costs but that is worthy even with this model.

The depreciation report also speaks nothing bad about this brand but its inclination towards an eccentric innovative approach makes it stand-out more in the market.

Along with its highly rigid body and delightfully nimble chassis, the GLC 350e has plenty of power and performance to bring to the table. Starting with the mechanical aspect, we get familiar with the Intercooled Turbo Gas or 2.0L I-4 engine which powers the 2021 GLC 350e. 

This engine is mated to a 90kw rated motor that is powered by a larger 13.5kWh battery pack. This motor also powered its predecessor. It has 315 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque for you to enjoy the drive. The power from the engine travels to all wheels of this car through a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Models	2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 350e SUV (Expected)	2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC	2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum
MSRP	$52,895	$41,495	$53,700
Engine	2.0L Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric I-4	2.0L Gas/Electric I-4	2.0L Turbo/Supercharger Gas/Electric I-4
Drive train	AWD	AWD	AWD
Transmission	7-speed Automatic	CVT	8-speed Automatic
Power	315 hp @500rpm	224 hp @ 6250 rpm	400 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque	516 lb-ft@1200rpm	215 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm	472 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm

From the above bunch of rivals, Mercedes depicts enthralling figures by offering amazing 516 lb-ft torque. But comparatively looking into its closest rivals, the Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum emerges first in the race as it belts out 400 horsepower and comes with 8-speed automatic transmission. 

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Acceleration and Braking Performance

GLC 350e exhibits exponential acceleration capabilities, going from 0-60 in 6.2 seconds, which happens to be a pretty impressive figure considering the segment standards. The powertrain and sensible power to weight ratio do a fine job, while the presence of AWD gives a boost to power and performance. 

GLC 350e has also performed well in the braking department; they do a commendable job of bringing it to a stress-free stop and give an immediate response by stopping the car at 116feet. The SUV feels planted and inspires confidence under panic braking conditions. 

Models	2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 350e SUV (Expected)	2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC	2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum
0-60 MPH	6.2 sec	9.8 sec	5.1 sec
Quarter- Mile	N/A	N/A	N/A
Top- Speed	N/A	N/A	N/A
60-0 MPH	116ft	125ft	114ft

Acceleration times offered by the rivals are quite competitive. GLC 350e managed to provide a satisfactory figure, but the trophy was stolen by Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum with the enthralling numbers of 0-60mph in just 5.1 seconds, which becomes fastest in the segment.

GLC 350e offers an impressive EV range of 30 miles. It has envisioned more on improving the fuel economy to give a boost to the performance of the car. 

With the fuel capacity of 17.4 gallons, GLC 350e does a great job. Although manufacturers have not provided official mpg figures, we expect that 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e would come up with improved numbers. 

Models	2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 350e SUV (Expected)	2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC	2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum
MPG (City)	N/A	N/A	26
MPG (Highway)	N/A	N/A	28
MPG (Combined)	25	25	26
Fuel Capacity	17.4gallons	11.3 gallons	N/A
Range (City/Hwy/Combined)	N/A	N/A	N/A

Since fuel economy data is not revealed for some cars, it is difficult to make a solid conclusion here. But the GLC 350e with an improved battery capacity is expected to offer great fuel economy figures and its rival XC60 still wins with a decent mileage if you consider the performance it offers. 

Being based on the C Class sedan, the interior portion of the GLC 350e is worth giving nice long looks.. Adhering to the principles of ultimate luxury, Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e marries luxury with comfort in true sense.

At first glance, you will catch the guise of enticing dashboard design with the leather-trimmed heated steering wheel. Premium materials have been used in adorning the interior of the car. Apart from its luxury quotient one thing that amazes Benz enthusiasts is ample space. This SUV can easily accommodate five people with the utmost ease, providing them ultimate plush rides every time. All the seats are power-adjustable with heated and ventilated seats. 

Models	2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 350e SUV (Expected)	2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC	2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum
Seating Capacity	5	5	5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	41.9/57.3/40.8	39.9/56.4/40.9	38/58.2/41.5
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	38.5/NA /37.3	38.1/56/37.9	38/56.3/38

From the above table, it is evident that the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e offers generous front and rear room space by smoothly accommodating five people in its room. Enough space is provided by GLC 350e so that each and every passenger must feel the comfort without feeling claustrophobic inside the cabin. 

How’s the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e Infotainment system?

Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e has a Plethora of features in its Pandora. It has everything to keep you entertained throughout the journey with a subtle user interface and hassle-free infotainment system. 

GLC 350e has everything to enjoy while driving this luxury. The updated MBUX system is a new attention seeker, which gets activated by simply saying “Hey Mercedes”. The touch screen size has been increased to many folds in the upcoming GLC 350e model. Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration come standard with this segment, however, audiophiles can pay an extra penny out of their pocket to install superior sound systems. 

The current generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e has been around for some time, but its design is very stately and enticing since it features a lot of solid lines and creases. The GLC 350e grille also plays a big part in uplifting its image, since the massive grille up front, along with the floating Mercedes logo, helps it look like a true luxury wheel.

It has not left the shadow of the base model and is arriving with the same exterior design with new color options, to make the new guise of the upcoming GLC 350e. The side profile remains exactly the same as the GLC class except for the EQ badging. A charging port can be found on the corner of the passenger side. It also features Panoramic sunroof, C shaped LED DRLs, and new updated rear tail lamps.

Models	2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 350e SUV (Expected)	2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC	2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum
Curb Weight	4564 lbs	4178 lbs	4638 lbs
Length	183.3”	184.8”	184.6”
Width	74.4”	70.9”	74.9”
Height	65.3”	67.3”	65.3”
Ground Clearance	5.9”	7.3”	8.5”
Wheelbase	113.1”	105.1”	112.8”

Over to the side, the GLC 350e body lines are accentuated by its overall length, thus helping it maintain elegance and poise despite its big size. The GLC 350e is one of the widest offerings in the class and provides the best in class wheelbase as well. Together these dimensions translate to a truly liberal cabin. 

Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e has been awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick for the 2020 model, but it has not undergone a crash test, so NHTSA ratings are not available yet. It offers a plethora of safety features along with all the driver-assistance technology.

Some of the most prominent standard safety features of the GLC 350e are:

• · Active Brake Assist
• · LED headlamps and tail lamps
• · Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist
• · Attention Assist
• · Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
• · Crosswind Assist
• · Pre-Safe systems
• · Adaptive braking technology
• · Aluminum and high-strength steel body structure
• · Antitheft alarm system with remote panic feature

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e vs. Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum

Both these rivals are moguls in the muck, Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum gives tough competition to 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e, Most of the data comparison speaks in favor of the Volvo XC60 T8 Momentum as this SUV simply dominates the performance figures. We would highly recommend Volvo XC60 T8 as it justifies each and every figure with an appropriate price tag.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e vs. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT S-AWC

These two rivals are the different ends of the threads; the German-bred is ahead of Japanese bred in many folds. The exterior styling of GLC 350e is more practical and opulent. But the handwork of Mitsubishi doesn’t cost too much like Mercedes, so people wanting luxury can absolutely go for GLC 350e without any second thought.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e is a really enticing car when it comes to its exterior and interior design. With all the top-level materials used, this car astonishes its enthusiasts with invigorating drive and scintillating design. German handiwork has been depicted inside this opulence which brings luster to eyes. So in case, you are looking for an entry-level luxury SUV that can carry you in the utmost splendor, and that too with a small carbon footprint, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e is the ideal car for you.