2018 MERCEDES GLC 350E

EV Channels Review

The TEVAdrive review of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e highlights its position as the most affordable luxury plug-in hybrid SUV in Canada, priced competitively against the Volvo XC60 T8 and significantly above the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. A key feature praised is the 'e-charge' mode, allowing drivers to recharge the battery using the gasoline engine during highway driving for subsequent city use in electric mode. However, the review encountered significant difficulty engaging and maintaining pure electric 'e-mode', with the gasoline engine frequently intervening, especially when climate control was active or during acceleration. While the reviewer could eventually achieve highway speeds in electric mode (up to 120 km/h), the electric range was notably lower than anticipated, especially at higher speeds. The reviewer suggests that achieving the estimated 40-50 km electric range requires careful driving and minimal use of climate systems. Despite the electric mode challenges during the test, the vehicle is deemed a "very nice vehicle" and "attractively priced" for the luxury segment.