10:52 25-04-2026

Mercedes-Benz GLC L EV targets China with space, range and a high-tech cabin

At Auto China 2026, SPEEDME journalists photographed the new Mercedes-Benz GLC L EV, the long-wheelbase electric version of one of the brand’s most important crossovers. The model has been developed with China in mind: the wheelbase has grown to 3027 mm, range exceeds 700 km, and the technical package includes an 800-volt architecture, S-Class-level air suspension and a large 39.1-inch MBUX display system.

Mercedes-Benz presented the new GLC L EV at the Chinese motor show as a long-wheelbase electric SUV intended to strengthen the brand’s position in China’s premium segment. Visually, the model does not try to abandon the familiar Mercedes identity for pure futurism. The large signature grille remains, but it now works as a light panel with 942 illuminated elements. When the car is unlocked or charged, it can switch between lighting sequences, while the Mercedes logo is also illuminated.

In size, the Chinese GLC L EV is noticeably larger than the global version. It measures 4949 mm long, 1970 mm wide and 1710 mm tall, with a 3027 mm wheelbase. The extra 55 mm in wheelbase and 104 mm in body length are not cosmetic: buyers of premium SUVs in China place particular value on rear-seat space, and Mercedes has adapted the model directly to that demand.

What is under the bonnet of the new 2026 GLC? The Chinese model is fully electric. The crossover is based on an 800-volt architecture and uses a dual-motor powertrain producing 310 kW, or 416 hp, and 800 Nm of torque. It features the eATS 2.0 electric drive system with radial motors and a two-speed transmission, while an 89 kWh battery provides more than 700 km of CLTC range. Fast charging can add around 260 km of range in 10 minutes.

The new model differs from the previous petrol GLC by more than its drivetrain. The emphasis has shifted to greater digitalisation, more lighting, more cabin space and a far more sophisticated chassis. Standard equipment includes air suspension with automatic height and stiffness adjustment, along with rear-wheel steering of up to 4.5 degrees. That should help the large SUV feel more agile in the city and more stable at higher speeds.

The cabin follows Mercedes’ latest logic. Ahead of the driver is a wide 39.1-inch MBUX setup, combining a 14.4-inch central screen with a separate 12.3-inch passenger display. The system runs on MB.OS and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip, supports OTA updates and includes the Xiao Ben virtual assistant. Options include leather upholstery, ventilation, heating and massage for the front seats, a Burmester audio system and a panoramic roof with nine zones of variable transparency.

Pricing has not yet been announced. The main task for the Mercedes-Benz GLC L EV is to retain buyers who once chose German premium brands almost by default but are now looking at Li Auto, Nio, Aito, Zeekr and other Chinese cars. In that sense, the new GLC is not only aimed at the BMW iX3 and Audi Q6 e-tron, but at an entire wave of local electric crossovers with large screens, long wheelbases, assisted-driving functions and aggressive prices.

The model is also relevant for Russian buyers. Even without official deliveries to Russia, such new cars quickly become targets for parallel import. In effect, the GLC L EV shows what the premium crossover of the coming years will look like: long range, fast charging, intelligent suspension, a business-class cabin and a digital architecture in place of a familiar collection of separate screens.