A combined 25 MPG is something to consider if you’re looking at the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e 4matic. This isn’t a vehicle for those obsessed with maximizing every mile. Instead, it’s for buyers who want some electrification along with the luxury and practicality of a compact SUV. They accept the fuel efficiency trade-offs for the electric driving range and the Mercedes-Benz prestige.

City and highway performance

The GLC350e’s fuel economy is 24 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. This small range suggests the hybrid system works best in stop-and-go situations, typical of cities. The electric motor helps during acceleration, which reduces workload of the gasoline engine’s. On the highway, the advantage is smaller, although the hybrid system still helps efficiency during steady cruising and regenerative braking. Drivers who spend more time in the city will likely see fuel consumption closer to the EPA’s combined estimate, while those who take long highway trips might see slightly better results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e 4matic at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will change depending on your driving, the fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Someone frequently using the electric range, especially if they have free or cheap charging, can greatly reduce their yearly fuel expenditure below $2,300.

Real-world expectations

Reaching the EPA’s MPG figures requires careful driving and regular battery charging. Hard acceleration and rare charging will hurt fuel economy. While the GLC350e works as a normal hybrid even without a charged battery, its efficiency suffers without the electric motor helping. Drivers should expect to get numbers close to the EPA estimates when driving efficiently and often using the electric range.

How it Compares

The GLC350e’s fuel economy is unique in the luxury compact SUV segment. For example, a similar-sized, non-hybrid competitor like the Acura RDX with all-wheel drive gets about 23 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 300h, a hybrid alternative, gets a more impressive 31 MPG combined, but it doesn’t have the GLC350e’s plug-in capability and may have a shorter electric range. The BMW X3 xDrive30e, another plug-in hybrid rival, offers similar performance but a different driving experience, and its MPG numbers change based on the model year. These comparisons show the trade-offs buyers face, the GLC350e values electric driving range and luxury over fuel efficiency compared to some hybrid competitors, but offers better fuel use compared to traditional gasoline models. For all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, see our Mercedes Benz guide.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the GLC350e’s electric drive modes. Choose “Electric” mode for shorter trips and city driving to minimize using gas. Learn about the different drive modes and how they change how the powertrain works. For example, “Hybrid” mode will automatically mix electric and gasoline power based on driving, which optimizes efficiency.

Regularly charge the battery pack. The GLC350e’s fuel economy greatly depends on the battery’s charge. Try to plug in whenever you can, even for short times. Often charging makes sure the electric motor can help move the vehicle, which reduces the gasoline engine’s workload. If you are looking for GLC350E MPG across all years, we provide data on our GLC350E model pages.

Drive and brake smoothly. Avoid quick driving, which drains the battery and increases gas consumption. Gentle acceleration and braking let the regenerative braking system capture energy and recharge the battery, which improves overall efficiency.

Keep proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended levels. Right tire pressure ensures the best fuel efficiency and tire wear.

Keep weight to a minimum. Carrying too much weight in the vehicle puts more strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger areas to lighten the load and improve efficiency.