Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size GLC and large GLE SUVs can now be ordered as plug-in hybrids – the former with petrol power, the latter with diesel power.
The Mercedes GLC 300 e and GLE 350 de are now available to order, with P11Ds from £49,617 for the regular GLC, £52,492 for the GLC coupé and £61,305 for the GLE. All come in the sporty AMG Line equipment grades and deliveries are expected to start in summer.
In terms of mechanical specification, the SUVs mirror their saloon/estate brethren, the C-Class and E-Class, in that the smaller car is a petrol-electric hybrid, while the larger car uses a diesel engine – an unconventional choice for a hybrid.
As such, the GLC 300 e features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 13.5kWh battery. This results in a system output of 320hp and a pure electric range of 24-26 miles on the WLTP cycle, depending on options. CO2 emissions stand at 54g/km (NEDC).
As standard in AMG Line, the hybrid GLC comes with 19in wheels, automatic transmission, the MBUX infotainment system and sports seats in artificial leather.
Upgraded equipment grades are available in the form of AMG Line Premium, AMG Line Premium Plus and AMG Line Ultimate. All can be ordered on both the regular SUV and the Coupé version, which has swoopier styling with a sloping roofline.
The larger GLE hybrid – like the E-class – is powered by a diesel engine – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder – and a 31.2 kWh battery for a system output of 320hp, an electric WLTP range of 56-61 miles and CO2 emissions of 29g/km (NEDC).
The GLE 350 de is also fitted with the AMG Line equipment grade as standard, which features 20in wheels, LED headlights, heated front seats, the MBUX infotainment system and a digital driver display. It can be further upgraded with AMG Line Premium and Premium Plus.