New electric Mercedes GLC: the star of Munich motor show 2025?

Featuring impressive range, Mercedes’ biggest screen yet, and an unexpected new grille, the new electric GLC caused a bit of a shock in Munich.

It may not have been front and centre at this year’s Munich motor show, but the new all-electric Mercedes GLC might just have stolen the show. Despite assuming a position deep within the exhibition hall, the latest rendition of the brand’s best-seller gathered such a crowd that even the eye-catching AMG GT XX which it sat beside could not compete in terms of foot traffic.

So, what’s all the fuss about?

The GLC redesigned

When first setting eyes upon the all-new Benz, one thing was immediately apparent: it’s still definitely a GLC. The SUV brings a fresh yet recognisably sleek silhouette, still broken up by dynamic lines, with some sharper styling elements punctuating throughout. 

But the feature turning the most heads? The grille. Mercedes latest design language is nowhere more apparent than in the redesign of the GLC’s iconic faceplate, which is now taller, rounder, and absolutely packed with lights. That’s right, there are no less than 942 individual polycarbonate backlit dots which illuminate the façade’s massive centrepiece. They can apparently even put on a welcome and farewell display for you, and if that’s still not enough, the iconic star logo at its centre illuminates too — quite a statement.

A peek inside

Getting up close for a glimpse at the interior, it was again a techy feature which grabbed our attention: the MBUX HYPERSCREEN. Living up to its name, this floating display measures a colossal 99.3 cm (or 39.1 inches), spanning the length of the dashboard. Officially the largest screen ever fitted into a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, it gives a truly futuristic feel which is often limited to car models ending in the word ‘concept’. 

But this is more than just a really big screen, and it also brings more than just a futuristic feel. The GLC is powered by an ‘AI-driven superbrain’, and the HYPERSCREEN is the gateway to accessing this MB.OS operating system. From here you can access not only the infotainment system, but the technology which learns and adapts to your comfort preferences, driving style, and even charging situation, creating a personalised experience. 

A spacious place

Now, this huge display could feel overwhelming in some vehicles, but the GLC manages to feel naturally spacious and uncluttered despite its size. Assisting with this is the one-piece panoramic glass roof — which can be flipped between transparent and opaque settings across nine zones — to create as much of an airy ambience as you wish. Alternatively, there are 162 stars integrated into the glass surface which can be illuminated, if you’re after something a little different… 

But back to spaciousness, and there are facts to back the feeling up. The EV GLC’s wheelbase is 84 mm longer than the ICE equivalent, offering extra legroom and headroom no matter which seat you’re sat in. This also brings some handy storage functionality in the shape of 570-litre boot (1,740 litres with the rear seats folded down) and a 128-litre front trunk, or ‘frunk’, if you want to get technical.

The bit you can’t see

But what lies beneath the surface? The new GLC, and all of the technology it brings, is underpinned by a bespoke electric powertrain. This robust foundation, including a 94 kWh battery, allows the top-of-the-line GLC 400 4MATIC to have an impressive 483 bhp and a range of up to 443-mile range.

And when it is time to top up, the electric GLC’s 800-volt electrical architecture allows for fast charging to the tune of around 188 miles in just ten minutes. Pretty speedy.

So, the all-new electric Mercedes GLC made a fairly grand entrance at the 2025 Munich motor show. Impressing crowds with everything from its flashy new grille to its gigantic dashboard screen and the substantial electric range, do you think the electric GLC is a step in the right direction for Mercedes?

Hero image credit: Mercedes-Benz Media