Frankfurt 2019: Mercedes-Benz to premier GLE 350 de 4MATIC and GLC 300 e 4MATIC

On the road to zero-emissions driving, Mercedes‑Benz promised to extend its offering to more than 20 model plug-in variants by 2020. That’s why at the Frankfurt Auto Show this year, Mercedes will introduce not one, but two members to the EQ Power family: the Mercedes‑Benz GLE 350 de 4MATIC and GLC 300 e 4MATIC.

In the C- and E- Class, Mercedes-Benz is the only manufacturer to combine the diesel engine with plug-in technology, offering this set-up in the Saloon and Estate versions of these two model series. 

The electrified GLE will feature an internal combustion engine produces 194 horsepower and an electric motor rated at 134 hp, offering a combined output of 320 hp and an ample 700 Nm of torque. 

The beefy PHEV setup allows the GLE 350de to complete 0-100 kph in only 6.8 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph (210 kph) or 100 mph (160 kph) when powered only by the electric motor.

As for the GLC 300 e 4MATIC, the combustion engine generates a peak 211hp mated with an electric motor rated at 121hp. The combined output of the model is the same as the GLE 350de. The GLC 300trim can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.

The data of Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLC at a glance

More space

Besides being the first SUV to have a fully adjustable second seat row, the GLE will gain a three metres long wheelbase (2995 mm to be precise), which gives the rear seater generous legroom.

While the GLE is receiving the compliment about the additional interior space, the GLC will accommodate more goods inside the luggage compartment. Due to the lowered rear axle and a bodyshell designed for space-saving battery integration, the GLC hybrid offers up to 1445 litres storage capacity.

More power, more range, more fun

Both GLE and GLC will be equipped with the third hybrid generation drive units, including the (G-TRONIC plug-in hybrid drives and a permanently excited synchronous motor. The upgraded power electronics also can boost a greater power and higher torque density.

Meanwhile, the technical integration allows use of the electric motor's peak and continuous output without any problems.

The new charger doubles the charging capacity from 3.6 kW to 7.4 kW and strikes an ideal compromise between size, weight and charging capacity. A discharged battery can thus be fully recharged in 1.5 hours at home. The same is possible in around five hours even at a conventional domestic power socket.

As a hybrid, the GLE not only will feature fully-variable AWD to guarantee its safe on the road, but also the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz driving assistance systems, advanced active safety devices and intelligent drive functions, such as Active Stop-and-Go Assist.