Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its GLC EV LWB (also referred to as the GLC L EV) in China at the Auto China 2026 show in Beijing. This long-wheelbase electric SUV is tailored specifically for the Chinese market, emphasizing enhanced rear-seat luxury, practicality, and efficiency in the premium EV segment.
The GLC EV LWB stretches the standard GLC EV platform to meet Chinese buyers’ preferences for spacious rear accommodations. It measures approximately 4,933–4,950 mm in length (about 105 mm longer than the global model) with a wheelbase of 3,027 mm — an increase of around 55 mm. The vehicle is also slightly taller by about 66 mm. These changes create noticeably more legroom and overall interior volume, particularly in the second and third rows.
Exterior styling remains faithful to the sleek, modern GLC EV design language, with subtle adaptations for the extended body. Larger rear doors and windows further improve access and light into the cabin.
The standout feature is the availability of a six-seat layout — a three-row configuration with captain’s chairs in the second row. These individual seats offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions, turning the middle row into a true luxury zone. A five-seat version is also available. The cabin boasts Mercedes’ latest MBUX Hyperscreen, a expansive 39.1-inch display spanning the dashboard. China-specific touches include a voice assistant supporting regional dialects like Cantonese and Sichuan. Advanced driver assistance systems, including motorway and urban navigation aids plus autonomous parking, enhance the premium experience.
Unlike the global GLC EV’s larger 94 kWh battery, the China-spec LWB model uses an 85.5 kWh (or up to 89 kWh in some reports) lithium-ion pack, likely optimized for weight, local sourcing, and the added third-row packaging. Despite the smaller capacity, Mercedes claims a CLTC range exceeding 700 km (up to 703 km in optimized configurations), with a standard rating around 680 km.
It features an 800V electrical architecture and dual-motor all-wheel drive, delivering a combined output of approximately 310–416 hp (depending on exact tuning) and up to 800 Nm of torque. The setup includes a two-speed transmission on the rear axle for better efficiency and performance. Fast charging supports up to 320 kW DC, enabling a 10–80% charge in about 22 minutes or adding roughly 260 km of range in 10 minutes.
Mercedes equips the GLC EV LWB with AIRMATIC air suspension borrowed from the flagship S-Class, paired with rear-axle steering (up to 4.5 degrees). This combination promises a refined, comfortable ride while maintaining agility despite the extended dimensions.
The GLC L EV is currently China-exclusive, positioning it as a practical yet luxurious alternative in the competitive midsize premium EV SUV segment — directly challenging models like the BMW iX3 LWB. It arrives in Chinese showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2026. No plans have been confirmed for other markets, including India, though the model’s focus on rear-seat luxury could appeal elsewhere if globalized later.
This debut underscores Mercedes-Benz’s strategy of deep co-creation with Chinese customers, blending global EV technology with localized features for space, efficiency, and digital luxury. The GLC EV LWB reinforces the brand’s commitment to its largest market while pushing boundaries in the premium electric SUV space.
