We drive the first ground-up, bespoke large electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz. By Simon Harris.

What is it? Large electric SUV  Key fleet model: GLC 400 AMG Line 4Matic  How much? From £60,285 (P11D) Range? 393-406 miles Efficiency? 3.6-3.8mpkWh

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The premium SUV segment has entered a new era of fierce competition. Mercedes-Benz has launched its first bespoke, ground-up electric contender in this crucial category.

The GLC Electric marks a significant departure from the brand’s early, converted internal combustion efforts. Engineered from the outset as a dedicated electric vehicle, this model successfully targets premium rivals by focusing heavily on exceptional charging efficiency, luxury cabin comfort and long-distance road manners.

Available to order in the UK with customer deliveries underway, the model line-up launches with the dual-motor GLC 400 4Matic configuration. The range spans five distinct specifications, opening with the Sport grade at £60,350 and climbing to the highly specified Premier Edition at £73,350.

Crucially for fleet operators who experienced the notable motor reliability issues and coolant leaks that plagued the older, adapted EQC platform, this ground-up architecture represents a vital mechanical reset. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz has avoided a recent controversial engineering misstep. Unlike the smaller CLA Electric, which drew widespread criticism for omitting a DC-to-DC converter as standard, the GLC Electric is fitted with a 400V transformer right out of the box. This ensures seamless compatibility with the UK public charging network, allowing drivers to utilise any rapid roadside charger without operational restrictions.

The powertrain features dual electric motors to produce 490hp and 800Nm of torque, delivering power smoothly through all four wheels. Unusually for an electric vehicle, the rear axle features a two-speed gearbox to maximise high-speed cruising efficiency, paired with a front motor that automatically decouples via a physical clutch during steady driving.

A brief 60-mile evaluation on mixed UK roads revealed that performance is both effortless and refined. The vehicle handles the 0-62mph sprint in 4.3 seconds, but the overriding impression from the driver’s seat is one of serenity. Extensive noise isolation and acoustic glass keep wind and tyre roar to a minimum, creating a calm sanctuary at motorway speeds. All but the base specifications feature adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, making the substantial 4.85-metre vehicle incredibly agile in tight urban environments.

Equipped with a 94kWh usable battery pack, the GLC Electric achieves an official WLTP driving range of up to 406 miles. On the road, its advanced 800V electrical system supports ultra-rapid DC charging speeds of up to 330kW, allowing a 10% to 80% replenishment in just 22 minutes. Inside, the flat floor permitted by the dedicated electric platform transforms interior packaging. The wheelbase has been stretched compared with the ICE GLC to create an additional 50mm of rear legroom, ensuring excellent passenger comfort.

The cabin is dominated by a seamless 39.1-inch curved glass display screen running the latest artificial intelligence operating system. Working out what it does can take some getting used to. Practicality remains high, with a 520-litre boot that expands to 1,690 litres with the rear seats folded, complemented by a useful 100-litre front storage compartment for charging cables. It also offers a 2,400kg braked towing capacity.

While the GLC Electric faces formidable, long-range competition from the newly released BMW iX3 and the forthcoming Volvo EX60 it delivers a deeply impressive combination of build quality and mechanical refinement. For drivers seeking a premium, zero-emission vehicle that prioritises long-distance comfort and ultra-rapid charging deployment, the GLC Electric represents a highly polished and uncompromised choice.

In Brief:

For: Refinement; space; technology

Against: High P11D; infotainment learning

Summary: Much improved large SUV for senior management

Also consider: BMW iX3; Audi Q6 e-tron; Volvo EX60