Mercedes-Benz unveils new GLC EQ! EQC successor fully electric SUV to arrive in 2026

Mercedes-Benz officially announced the new electric SUV “GLC EQ” on September 8, 2025. This new model is positioned as the de facto successor to the discontinued EQC, and is scheduled to go on sale in the first half of 2026. While BMW is moving away from its giant kidney grille, Mercedes has instead adopted a bold, giant grille design, which has attracted attention.

Exterior with innovative design language

Next-generation grille with 942 shining LED dots

The most distinctive feature of the new GLC EQ is its innovative front design, which is a reinterpretation of Mercedes’ traditional grille. Optionally, it is equipped with an illumination function using 942 backlight dots, creating an impressive presence when driving at night.

While this bold design has been criticized for looking “cheap,” it has also received positive reviews, with some calling it “futuristic and eye-catching.”

Star-shaped LED lights are the brand identity

The headlights feature new star-shaped LED daytime running lights, which will become the new design identity for the entire Mercedes-Benz lineup.

The rear taillights have also been completely redesigned, with similar star-shaped LED lights and a two-piece roof spoiler. Some have pointed out that the design is reminiscent of Mazda’s, but it is attracting attention as a design that symbolizes a new era for Mercedes.

Advanced cabin with 39.1-inch Hyperscreen

A huge display that covers the entire dashboard

The highlight of the interior is the 39.1-inch (99.3 cm) MBUX Hyperscreen that covers the entire dashboard, offering customisable display functions for the driver and passenger, and boasts a remarkably minimalist design even by traditional Mercedes standards.

Functionality and luxury combined

The cabin comes standard with the following advanced features:

• Complex ambient lighting system
• Panoramic glass roof compatible lighting
• Round air vent
• Two wireless chargers
• Floating Console

Powerful powertrain and charging performance

94kWh battery provides a range of 713km

All versions of the new GLC EQ are equipped with a 94 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which provides a range of up to 713 km (WLTP standard), making it suitable for long-distance driving.

The flagship model, the GLC 400 4MATIC, will be equipped with a 483 horsepower twin-motor system, and four other derivative versions will be added.

Industry-leading fast charging

It supports 330kW fast charging, allowing it to charge for 300km in just 10 minutes, making it one of the best charging performances in the current electric SUV market.

Luxury suspension inherited from the S-Class

Airmatic air suspension

The flagship S-Class also comes with the optional Airmatic air suspension, which combines rear-wheel steering and intelligent suspension control to significantly improve comfort.

This system works with Google Maps data to automatically select the optimum vehicle height and damping for road conditions, and is also equipped with advanced functions that predict road conditions ahead and respond in advance.

Regenerative braking up to 300kW

Four regeneration levels can be set, with the highest level achieving 300kW of regenerative braking. Efficient energy recovery further extends the practical driving range.

Expanded body size and interior space

79mm longer than the internal combustion engine model

The wheelbase has been extended by 79 mm compared to the GLC-Class with an internal combustion engine, significantly improving the comfort of the front and rear seats. Luggage capacity is 570 liters, and the front trunk is 128 liters, improving practicality.

Time to market and competitive analysis

Sales are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026

The new GLC EQ is scheduled to go on sale in global markets from the first half of 2026. It is expected to face stiff competition from BMW’s new iX3 and other luxury electric SUVs.

Pricing will be announced at a later date, but considering the price range of the current GLC class (starting from 8.19 million yen), the GLC EQ is expected to be priced from around 10 million yen.

Summary: A new pillar of Mercedes’ electrification strategy

The new GLC EQ marks an important turning point in Mercedes-Benz’s electrification strategy, combining innovative design, advanced technology and practical performance to strengthen its competitive position in the premium electric SUV market.

The car’s bold specifications, which overturn conventional Mercedes conventions, such as the giant grille with 942 LED dots and the 39.1-inch Hyperscreen, are attracting attention as they point the way to a new era of luxury electric vehicles.

The new GLC EQ is just about a year away from its market launch in 2026. Its success is likely to be an important model that will determine the direction of Mercedes-Benz’s entire electrification strategy.