Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé PHEV

The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé PHEV (plug-in hybrid) is a fully imported (CBU) mid-size coupé SUV under the Mercedes-Benz stable, belonging to the second-generation GLC Coupé (X254) model line. Launched globally in 2023 alongside the second-generation GLC Coupé range, it carves out a distinct niche in the premium mid-size coupé SUV segment by blending a sleek sloping roofline with an electrified plug-in hybrid powertrain. In the Chinese domestic market, the GLC Coupé PHEV is offered as a CBU import in a single variant: the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé. In April 2026, Mercedes-Benz Hong Kong introduced the all-new GLC 300 e Coupé plug-in hybrid model, with indicative pricing starting from HKD 815,000. Key rivals in this space include the BMW X4 xDrive30e and Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e.

Design Language

On the outside, the GLC Coupé PHEV marries the rugged identity of the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup with the sweeping silhouette of a coupé. Up front, it sports an AMG-style multi-slat chrome radiator grille flanked by Digital Light LED high-performance headlamps, exuding an unmistakably aggressive stance. The side profile remains the GLC Coupé's most defining highlight—a sleek, sloping roofline sweeps gracefully from the B-pillar to taper into the tailgate, injecting sports car poise without compromising the athletic presence of an SUV. The rear is taut and muscularly sculpted, elevated by dual exhaust tailpipe trims and an integrated diffuser element that emphasize its sporty intent. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 4,732 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,602 mm in height, sitting on a 2,873 mm wheelbase. Inside, the cabin is treated to an AMG Line layout, headlined by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch portrait central touchscreen. The interior is wrapped in Artico synthetic leather upholstery, complemented by metallic trim pieces and optional open-pore wood inserts to deliver an upscale, inviting ambiance.

Powertrain and Performance

The GLC 350 e Coupé is propelled by a plug-in hybrid system combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. Total system output is rated at 313 hp (around 230 kW) and 550 Nm of peak torque. Power is channelled through a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission and sent to all four corners via the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The official 0–100 km/h century sprint is dispatched in 6.7 seconds, with top speed capped at 220 km/h. Energy is stored in a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity ranging from 25.4 kWh to 31.2 kWh. On the WLTP cycle, the pure electric range exceeds 100 km, with select variants achieving up to 109 km. It supports 11 kW AC charging. The Hong Kong-spec GLC 300 e Coupé also features a 2.0T PHEV setup, boasting an all-electric driving range of up to 128 km.

Chassis and Handling

Underpinned by the Mercedes-Benz Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform, the GLC Coupé PHEV features a front-engine, all-wheel-drive configuration. It comes standard with an adaptive rear air suspension system that effectively irons out road imperfections to maintain composure on the move. A tight turning circle combined with sharp, progressive steering makes manoeuvring through congested urban streets and tight parking bays effortless. Multiple drive modes are on tap—slotting it into Sport mode sharpens throttle response and firms up the dampers, though the overall chassis setup remains tuned for a well-judged balance between ride comfort and efficiency. Optional rear-axle steering is also available, sharpening low-speed cornering agility while bolstering high-speed cruising stability.

Cabin and Equipment

The interior command centre centres around a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and an 11.9-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment unit. It runs on the MBUX multimedia system, complete with augmented reality (AR) navigation as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Audiophiles are treated to a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system. Seating surfaces are trimmed in Artico faux leather, with the front seats offering full electric adjustment and memory functions. Other creature comforts include multi-colour ambient lighting and dual-zone automatic climate control. While boot volume takes a minor hit over the standard GLC due to the sloping roofline, the 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrests allow for flexible cargo loading.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The GLC Coupé PHEV comes extensively equipped with active and passive safety kit. On the active safety front, it packs advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including Active Parking Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Brake Assist. It is also fitted with Digital Light LED high-performance headlamps that dynamically adapt light distribution based on road topology and oncoming traffic for safer night-time journeys. Mercedes-Benz backs the GLC Coupé PHEV with a 4-year unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty alongside an 8-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty.

Market Performance and Verdict

In China, the GLC Coupé PHEV is sold as a fully imported CBU model, with dealer retail prices hovering between RM374,500 and RM566,000. In Hong Kong, the GLC 300 e Coupé carries an indicative starting price of HKD 815,000, while in Malaysia, the GLC 350 e 4MATIC Coupé retails from RM425,888. As an imported coupé SUV, it serves as a stylish, design-forward alternative to the locally assembled long-wheelbase GLC PHEV (such as the 350 e L 4MATIC Edition priced at RM518,000) for buyers wanting distinctive flair and dynamic driving characteristics. While its fastback silhouette demands a slight compromise on rear headroom and boot practicality, the GLC Coupé PHEV remains a key contender in Mercedes-Benz's mid-size coupé SUV portfolio, blending electrified efficiency with everyday performance to hold a compelling edge in the luxury segment.