The Mercedes-Benz GLC, a premium compact crossover SUV, was introduced for the 2016 model year and last redesigned in 2023. It’s the German automaker’s most popular model globally, and as such, you may think Mercedes would be content to maintain the status quo. But you’d be wrong. For 2027, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a new electric GLC SUV that will be sold alongside the current gasoline-powered GLC models. The automaker also elevated the performance of its mid-range AMG-badged GLC model.
2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
The biggest news for 2027 is the new GLC EV. The brand-new EV is slightly larger than the gasoline-fueled GLC and is quite powerful, with a strong range from its 94-kWh battery pack. Under the skin, the GLC EV, which will first be released in GLC 400 guise, houses what Mercedes calls an AI-driven MB.OS supercomputer that it says “controls every aspect of the vehicle.” It also debuts a new Sensual Purity design language that should make its way to other SUVs in the brand’s portfolio.
Also new for 2027 is the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4Matic+, a sporty model that replaces the previous GLC 43. The AMG-badged GLC will be offered in both traditional SUV and Coupe styles. Though it’s badged as a coupe, the GLC Coupe actually has four doors that are paired with a dramatic sloping rear roofline, and features an inline-six engine to replace the 43’s four-cylinder.
Design
While the 2027 GLC EV retains traditional SUV proportions, its detailing is a significant departure from past Mercedes-Benz SUV models. A large, bold grille leads the way, and unlike other electric vehicles from the automaker, it’s chrome instead of glossy black. Tucked away inside the grille are 942 illuminated points and a big illuminated three-pointed-star logo. Star-shaped lighting elements are used for the front and rear lighting clusters, and flush-mounted door handles add to the GLC EV's aerodynamic profile, with a drag coefficient of just 0.26.
Gasoline-fueled GLC models will continue to be sold, and the new AMG 53 model will feature a more aggressive look with a large front splitter, a rear spoiler, unique air intakes in the front and rear fascias, and a rear diffuser. Mercedes-Benz will also offer the GLC 53 with a one-year-only Golden Accents Package, available in Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno exterior colors, featuring techgold graphics and 21-inch AMG Forged Cross-Spoke wheels in matte black with techgold rim flanges and center caps.
Powertrain
The electric 2027 GLC 400 will offer 483 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque courtesy of a pair of electric motors, one for each axle. A rear-wheel-drive (RWD) GLC 300 with 369 hp is expected at a later date. The electrified GLC features a two-speed automatic transmission at the rear axle, and the front motor can be disconnected instantly to improve efficiency. While Mercedes hasn’t yet announced estimated range figures for U.S. models, something near 400 miles per full charge is likely. And with its 800-volt electrical architecture and high-tech battery, Mercedes says the right type of charger can add up to 190 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Properly equipped, the 2027 GLC 400 can tow up to 5,291 pounds.
The new 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4Matic+ features a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a traditional turbocharger and a separate electric compressor unit that delivers 443 hp and 443 lb-ft (a boost to 472 lb-ft is available for 10-second bursts). A nine-speed automatic will send that power to all four wheels, and a Drift Mode will allow tire-smoking burnouts for the first time ever in an AMG-badged SUV.
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t yet announced the full GLC lineup for 2027, but it’s likely models such as the GLC 300 with its 255-hp four-cylinder engine will return to serve as the entry-level models in the lineup.
Interior
A new Vegan Package, certified by The Vegan Society, will be offered in the 2027 GLC EV, featuring unique upholstery, carpets, and trim with no animal-derived products. Buyers can also choose from a range of faux and real Nappa leather options. Various trim finishes will include multiple open-pore woods, glossy metallics, anodized silvers, and fabrics. Mercedes-Benz will offer two seat options in the 2027 GLC EV, with a clear distinction between those designed for comfort (including optional Energizing Comfort programs with massaging functions and soothing ambient audio) and those for performance.
Due to a wheelbase that is 3.3 inches longer than the gasoline-fueled GLC, the new 2027 GLC EV has a half inch more front legroom and 1.8 inches more front headroom, along with a whopping 1.9 inches more rear legroom and 0.7 inches more rear headroom. A 20.1 cubic-foot cargo area expands to 61.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.
Technology
A massive MBUX Hyperscreen measuring 39.1 inches from side to side will be optional in the GLC EV. The Hyperscreen comprises three screens — a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14-inch central display, and a 14-inch front passenger display — housed under a single glass surface and available on the GLC’s Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels. GLC EV models without the Hyperscreen won’t have the 14-inch passenger-side display. A Sky Control roof features a large glass surface that can switch between transparent and opaque, and at night, 162 stars in the roof can be illuminated for interior ambiance.
The fourth-generation MBUX infotainment software package integrates artificial intelligence agents from ChatGPT, Microsoft, and Google. The MB.OS software package also includes a new Google Cloud Automotive AI Agent that integrates with Google Maps for navigation. Together with the GLC EV’s optional MBUX Augmented Reality Head‑up Display, useful information can be projected onto the GLC’s windshield.
The 2027 GLC 400 features Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual (a driver-programmable setting) drive modes, plus a Terrain setting for off-road use. A so-called Transparent Hood camera setup can give the driver a view of what’s happening under the electric GLC, helping the driver avoid off-road obstacles.
An optional Agility & Comfort Package equipping the 2027 GLC 400 with air suspension and rear steering uses mapping data and car-to-car communication to smooth out the ride on rough roads. The Airmatic air suspension can also be raised or lowered for street or off-road use.
