BMW has unveiled what it calls a milestone in its EV lineup — the 2027 iX3 — debuting at the 2025 IAA Mobility show in Germany. Naturally, Mercedes-Benz isn’t standing by. Its answer comes in the form of the 2027 Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology, a direct rival aimed at the same compact luxury crossover market. Both models promise next-generation electric performance, but the real question is: can Mercedes’ new GLC match — or surpass — the impact of BMW’s bold iX3?
Mercedes faces a challenge right out of the gate, as the company has only released European specifications for the new 2027 Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology. U.S. pricing and EPA-rated range remain unknown. Still, the WLTP figures give us some insight into how it stacks up against BMW’s iX3. Early estimates suggest roughly 360 miles of range (per HARJA), supported by an 800-volt system capable of charging at up to 330 kW. The crossover delivers 483 horsepower and offers an optional 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen with AI integration. As for design, Mercedes has moved away from the rounded “jellybean” look, opting for sharper, more contemporary styling.
“The biggest product-launch program in our company’s history continues with the all-new GLC. We’re not just introducing a new model – we’re electrifying our top seller.”
– Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG
The Jellybean Is (Mostly) Gone
Automakers often reveal their priorities through the focus of their press releases, and with the new 2027 Mercedes GLC, design takes center stage. Mercedes seems to be acknowledging that the rounded, aerodynamic shape of the EQS didn’t resonate with buyers. The GLC ushers in what the company calls a “new era of distinctive design,” signaling a sharper, more confident styling direction for the brand.
The 2027 Mercedes GLC maintains a sleek overall shape, achieving a 0.26 drag coefficient, but it’s a noticeable step up in style compared with Mercedes’ previous EQ models. Following a trend set by BMW, Mercedes has reimagined the grille with integrated LED lights: 942 polycarbonate backlit dots create the illusion of metal, and optional animations complement an illuminated Mercedes star. At the rear, two-piece tail-lights feature a rocket-inspired design and can also display animated effects during charging or when the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
Mercedes notes that 21-inch wheels are available, though the standard size hasn’t been specified. Exterior dimensions are largely unreported, but the wheelbase measures 117 inches—3.1 inches longer than the gasoline GLC. This translates to a modest increase in interior space: roughly half an inch more front legroom, 1.9 inches more rear legroom, 1.8 inches additional front headroom, and slightly over half an inch in the back. Cargo space behind the rear seats is slightly reduced at 20.1 cubic feet (compared with 21.9 in the gas model), but total capacity expands to 61.4 cubic feet versus 56.3. Notably, this marks the first Mercedes EV to feature a front trunk, offering an additional 3.5 cubic feet of storage.
Technology Overload, Extra Screen
A New Hyperscreen
Mercedes has clearly changed its tune on screens as a luxury feature. The 2027 Mercedes GLC offers an optional 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen that stretches almost the entire width of the dashboard. While it looks like a single display, it actually consists of three separate screens under one glass panel: a 10.25-inch gauge cluster, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and a 14-inch passenger display. If you skip the Hyperscreen, the passenger display is replaced with a digital trim element that can show a personal photo or one of 12 preloaded images.
The updated MBUX infotainment system runs on the Unity Game Engine and incorporates artificial intelligence. Drivers can interact with the MBUX Virtual Assistant to get Google Maps directions or engage in more natural, conversational commands. Mercedes has also added smartphone-like functionality, allowing owners to create folders to organize streaming services, apps, or even games in one convenient place.
New MBUX apps include Microsoft Teams’ Meetings (yes, really) and Disney+. Mercedes also offers optional Burmester 3D and 4D surround sound systems with Dolby Atmos. When paired with the optional Active Ambient Lighting, audio can trigger dynamic light effects throughout the cabin. The 4D system goes a step further, using a body sound transducer in the seat to let you literally feel the music, movies, or TV shows.
Sound Experience
Beyond the 3D and 4D audio, Mercedes continues its trend of giving EVs distinctive sounds when accelerating. The 2027 Mercedes GLC with EQ Technology features a holistic “Sound Experience” with four familiar modes—Silver Waves, Vivid Flux, Serene Breeze, and Roaring Pulse (AMG Line only)—plus two new options:
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Fractal Fusion: Retro 1980s arcade-style tones with synthwaves and vibrant textures
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Granular Fuzz: A mix of guitar riffs, orchestral elements, natural samples, and electronic effects
These sounds activate at startup and include unique tones for locking, unlocking, and charging alerts. They are separate from the legally required Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System for pedestrian safety, which offers two levels: discreet and characterful.
The Most Luxurious GLC Ever
Mercedes is positioning this as the most luxurious GLC yet, packing the SUV with impressive new features. A one-piece panoramic roof comes standard with infrared coating to reflect sunlight, while the optional Sky Control uses polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) technology to make the glass opaque. The roof is divided into nine segments that can be individually switched between clear and opaque. At night, an optional feature can display 162 stars in one of 64 colors—evoking a starry headliner reminiscent of a Rolls-Royce.
Every seat in the 2027 Mercedes GLC carries certification from the German Organization for Healthy Backs. Memory adjustment and heating come standard, while sport seats with higher side bolsters are available. Both seat types are made with 30% recycled materials. An optional MB Wellbeing Energizing Package enhances the experience with the Energizing Comfort feature, which integrates animations and sounds on the Hyperscreen.
These features work in tandem with seat movements and massage functions to deliver a full relaxation experience. Drivers can select a 10-minute program—Fresh Breeze, Warm & Cozy, Energy, Good Vibes, or Relax—or opt for a 15-minute power nap. Additional “emotional modes” add playful touches, such as a virtual campfire displayed on the Hyperscreen.
Improved EV Tech, But Is It Enough?
800-Volt Technology
To ensure it’s future-proof, the 2027 Mercedes GLC EV features 800-volt technology with silicon carbide inverters, moving beyond the 400-volt systems used in existing Mercedes EQ models. European specifications highlight a 94-kWh usable battery delivering a WLTP range of 713 kilometers (approximately 443 miles), a peak charging rate of 330 kW, and an additional 303 kilometers (188 miles) in just 10 minutes of charging. The GLC can tow up to 5,291 pounds and features one-pedal braking that relies almost entirely on regenerative braking.
As noted earlier, a direct comparison with BMW’s iX3 is difficult without U.S. specifications. However, the GLC appears likely to trail the iX3 in most areas, with towing capacity being the main exception.
| 2027 Mercedes GLC Vs BMW iX3 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Models | Horsepower | Torque | Battery Size | Range (WLTP) | Charge Speed |
| GLC 400 with EQ Technology | 483 hp | N/A | 94 kWh | 713 km | 330 kW |
| iX3 50 xDrive | 463 hp | 476 lb-ft | 108.7 kWh | 805 km | 400 kW |
Based on BMW’s WLTP figures, the iX3 appears to outclass the GLC on paper. It offers an 805-kilometer range (with a larger 108-kWh battery), a peak charging rate of 400 kW, and can add 372 kilometers (231 miles) in just 10 minutes. Its towing capacity, however, is lower at 4,400 pounds. Unless you plan to haul something particularly heavy, the BMW emerges as the early hypothetical winner in this on-paper comparison.
EQ Is Optional
Mercedes seems to be following the same strategy with the GLC as it did with the G-Class, treating the electric model as a trim within the existing lineup rather than a standalone EQ vehicle like the EQE or EQS. The 2027 Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology will be the first—and initially the only—electric GLC available in the U.S., though additional variants may join the lineup in the future.
The GLC’s powertrain combines two electric motors producing a total of 483 horsepower, featuring a two-speed transmission on the rear axle and a disconnect unit up front. Mercedes hasn’t released acceleration figures, but notes that the 130-mph top speed is reached in second gear, with shift points dynamically adjusted based on driving conditions and mode. Buyers can also choose an Agility & Comfort Package, which adds Airmatic suspension, intelligent suspension control borrowed from the S-Class, and rear-axle steering. While this package is available on the gasoline-powered GLC, it is not currently offered in the U.S. market.
Similar to the new BMW iX3, the GLC features a One Box braking system, which ensures a consistent brake pedal feel whether the vehicle is using friction brakes or regenerative braking. This marks a significant improvement over previous Mercedes EVs, which were criticized for a brake pedal that shifted position as the car slowed. The GLC can now come to a complete stop using regenerative braking alone, generating up to 300 kW in the process.
Pricing & U.S. Availability
The 2027 Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ Technology is expected to reach U.S. dealerships in late 2026, meaning the BMW iX3 will already be on sale by then. BMW has indicated that the iX3 50 xDrive will start at around $60,000, while Mercedes has only confirmed that pricing will be announced closer to launch. Many details remain unclear, but the real test will be how these two critical EVs perform for their respective brands. If Mercedes can price the GLC competitively, it may hold its own, though BMW currently leads in range and charging capabilities.
