Mercedes-Benz Japan has added the all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model "GLC 350e 4MATIC" to its mid-size SUV "GLC." Sales have commenced.

The GLC now features a PHEV model, which Mercedes-Benz calls "EQ POWER."

The powertrain utilizes a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, producing a maximum output of 155kW (211ps) and peak torque of 350Nm, paired with the latest PHEV system. Thanks to an increased lithium-ion battery capacity compared to the previous generation, motor assist has been improved, resulting in a combined system output of 235kW (320ps) and 700Nm of torque.

The vehicle can operate on electric power alone up to 130 km/h, allowing for an electric vehicle-like driving experience. The electric-only driving range is reported to be 47.3 km.

The lithium-ion battery is a compact 13.5kWh unit, produced by Daimler's wholly-owned subsidiary "Deutsche ACCUMOTIVE." It is designed with high versatility for use across multiple models.

To conserve energy, the "Intelligent Accelerator Pedal" features a "Pressure Point Function." In EV mode, this function increases resistance at the accelerator pedal's limit for electric-only driving, signaling to the driver that further depression would engage the combustion engine, thereby preventing unnecessary energy consumption.

The exterior and interior design follow the refreshed styling introduced in 2019. It is equipped with the "MBUX" interactive infotainment system, activated by the voice command "Hey, Mercedes," and the latest generation of driver assistance systems as standard.

For charging, Mercedes-Benz offers a complimentary 6.0kW (30A) AC home charger and a ¥100,000 subsidy to help offset installation costs. Additionally, a new charging service, "Mercedes me charge," allows free use of AC chargers at NCS (Nippon Charge Service) network stations nationwide for a monthly fee of ¥3,000.

The price is ¥8,990,000, with deliveries scheduled to begin in April 2021.