It's been known for a while that a so-called coupe version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC is on the way, with the upcoming model being previewed by the very yellow Concept GLC Coupe at the 2015 Shanghai International Auto Show.
What nobody except Mercedes-Benz was sure about is the inclusion of a plug-in hybrid version in the new crossover's engine lineup. Thanks to a small detail in the spy video below, the cat has been let out of the bag.
If you watch closely, there is an extra fuel-filler cap positioned between the rear bumper and the right taillight. Those who know their plug-in hybrids from Mercedes-Benz will realize that said “fuel-filler cap” is actually offering access to an electric plug for the hybrid system.
It is likely that the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe will sport the 350e moniker for its plug-in hybrid version, which also means that it may receive the same powertrain as its platform brother, the Mercedes-Benz C350e.
This translates into a turbocharged, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that delivers 211 hp and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, paired with an electric motor that augments the total output with up to 82 hp and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque.
Thanks to a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 6.38 kWh that can be charged by the internal combustion engine, via brake energy recuperation, during coasting or via an electrical socket, the NEDC fuel consumption for a C350e sedan sits at 2.1 l/100 km (112 mpg). The model has an all-electric range of 31 km (19 miles).
It is not yet clear if the plug-in hybrid version of the GLC Coupe will get the exact same powertrain or a different version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, but our money is on no difference whatsoever compared to the sedan.
The 2017 GLC 350e Coupe should make an appearance alongside the other GLC Coupe versions at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, with deliveries expected to start next summer in Europe and from fall 2016 in the United States.
Alex handled his first real steering wheel at the age of five (on a field) and started practicing "Scandinavian Flicks" at 14 (on non-public gravel roads). Following his time at the University of Journalism, he landed his first real job at the local franchise of Top Gear magazine a few years before Mircea (Panait). Not long after, Alex entered the New Media realm with the autoevolution.com project. Full profile
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