Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the top three German automakers, make it appealingly difficult for consumers. The manufacturers offer performance-oriented, well-heeled and well-constructed vehicles in about as many shapes and sizes as imaginable.

Considering just SUVs, Audi offers 10, BMW 12 and Mercedes-Benz 17, including gas and hybrid considerations. The Mercedes-Benz stable includes a returning variety, the 2025 GLC 350e. It’s a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that expands the previously available SUV range among EVs. It was offered years ago but was discontinued after the 2020 model year.

The GLC debuted in 2015 as a 2016 compact luxury crossover. It replaced the GLK-Class and is the SUV equivalent to the C-Class, according to the manufacturer.

Beyond its PHEV attributes, the GLC 350e is closely related to the standard GLC. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine and adds an electric motor that pulls from 24.8-kWh battery. Power is sent to all four wheels. 

The electric-only driving range is 54 miles. It’s a usable tally for short commutes and other brief treks. Mercedes-Benz touts the SUV can fully charge in 30 minutes at a public fast-charging station. 

The combined powertrain offers 313 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, increases of 58 horsepower and 111 lb-ft over the gas-only models. A nine-speed automatic propels the SUV to a combined range of 380 miles, with 60, 70 and 64 miles per gallon equivalents in city, highway and overall driving scenarios.

The hybrid’s battery pack weighs more than 700 pounds, pushing the vehicle’s total weight to a chunky 5,108 pounds.The extra pounds slow the GLC 350e to 6.4 seconds in the 0-to-60 miles per hour standard. It’s slightly slower than the gas-only sibling’s ratings. But the acceleration in the former is more than sufficient. The SUV is a luxury family hauler, not a sports car. Its smooth, quick transition shifts overshadow any need for performance bravado.

Six driving modes are included: EV-only, hybrid, battery hold, sport, off-road, and individual. The EV-only is the default mode; the battery hold serves as the option to save as much electric energy as possible. 

Available in Base, Exclusive and top-line Pinnacle trims, the GLC 350e includes standard a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 11.3-inch portrait-style center touchscreen, 16-way adjustable heated front seats, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and blind-spot warning systems. The Exclusive model adds a Burmester audio system, surround-view camera, anti-theft and anti-tow-away features. The Pinnacle trim has noise-insulated glass, a head-up display and Dolby Atmos, the new surround sound technology.

Additional niceties include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with a layout of 15 apps per screen. The SUV has six USB-C ports and a wireless phone charger. The latter could be more readily available. It’s located deep into the center console.

Mercedes’ voice recognition is activated via the command “Hey, Mercedes.” It’s a convenient feature but overly ambitious. The system seemingly engages on words other than the manufacturer’s name.

As per its longstanding ways, the SUV represents the best of Mercedes-Benz, inside and outside. Top-grade materials dominate the interior, all presented with an interior design’s touch. The ambient lighting complements the appearance. The GLC lineup is marketed as the carmaker’s entry-level luxury class but it’s a misnomer.

If any further example is required, consider the German home and automotive audio company’s equipment in the GLC (and other classes). It features 15 speakers distributing symphonic quality. It’s further impressive since the 350e advances smoothly, seamlessly absorbing road imperfections and accomplishing any deviant tasks quietly. 

The GLC 350e has a starting MSRP of $61,050. With various packages, the tally is pushed to $73,770. Like its top rivals, Mercedes-Benz vehicles ideally define getting what a buyer pays for. Bargains don’t exist for Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. But value is plentiful.