The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 expands the brand’s all-electric lineup with an entry in the compact luxury SUV segment. This gives Mercedes a true competitor to the Tesla Model Y, and it’s packed with tech. It also features the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz grille. Since it’s an EV, it’s a massive light pattern mimicking the brand’s iconic radiator grille. Fresh headlights that emulate the Mercedes-Benz logo flank it. In the rear, full-width taillights feature a similar pattern to the one found in the latest E-Class.
Stepping inside, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 sports a similar layout to the brand’s current vehicles. However, it features a new option: the updated MBUX Hyperscreen, which features a continuous 39.1-inch display that spans the entire dash. Its virtual assistant also integrates AI from Microsoft and Google to personalize the experience and get you the best answer to everything you ask it. Additionally, the available Sky Control panoramic roof includes switchable glass and ambient lighting that illuminates 162 stars at night. Mercedes also debuts its first Vegan package, which uses materials certified by The Vegan Society.
As with its main competitor, the BMW iX3, nearly everything is controlled by a supercomputer. In the case of the GLC 400, it’s the MB.OS system that controls everything from infotainment to the driver assistance systems with help from AI.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 400: EQ Technology Upgraded
The all-electric GLC 400 introduces Mercedes-Benz’s latest battery-electric powertrain. It features an 800-volt charging architecture, allowing the 94-kWh battery to recharge 188 miles in just 10 minutes using a DC charger. The GLC 400 has a peak DC charge rate of 330 kW. It also includes a standard DC converter, enabling efficient charging at 400-volt DC charging stations. Total output from its two electric motors is 483 hp, while the driving range is 443 miles in the WLTP cycle. Expect that number to go down on the more conservative EPA cycle. Meanwhile, a heat pump comes standard to help improve cold-weather efficiency.
In terms of suspension, the GLC 400 takes bits from the S-Class executive sedan. These include its air suspension, which comes bundled with rear-wheel steering that can turn the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees. That reduces the turning circle to 36.7 feet, improving the SUV’s maneuverability. On the other hand, the GLC 400 relies almost entirely on regenerative braking and can recuperate up to 300 kW, all while bringing the car to a stop. And yes, this electric SUV has one-pedal driving.
Every Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 comes with a full suite of driver assistance technologies. However, some features like a surround view camera and parking assistance remain optional. Later on, the MB.Drive Assist, which has two levels of enhancements to the car’s driver assistance features, will be available. Additionally, MB.Drive Assist will also be available, bundling together features like Steering Assist and Lane Change Assist.
Expected Creature Comforts
As with all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the GLC 400 comes with plenty of ways to stay cozy. Massaging seats and even a 15-minute power nap program are all available. The updated MBUX Hyperscreen can show cool screensavers as part of its Emotional mode, while new seats promise maximum comfort. For audiophiles, the available Burmester premium audio system includes Dolby Atmos for high-resolution listening on the road.
When it arrives in the second half of 2026, expect the GLC 400 to come standard with the NACS port for the U.S. Pricing should land just below the existing AMG models, putting it right on par with the new iX3, which is projected to start at $60,000.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
