Table of Content
βΌThe segment of luxury electric SUVs is set for competition in India as BMW iX3 prepares to rival the Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC. The latter has been introduced in the Indian market, with an ex-showroom price of Rs78.5 lakh and a range of 711 km. The former, however, is expected to be launched in 2027 with a bigger battery power source claiming to provide a better range of 805 km.
Understanding the New Battle Front

The Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC was launched in India on November 4th, 2026 in one single variant. By now, over 1,000 units have been booked and the company plans to deliver the model in March 2027.
On the contrary, BMW has different plans for their vehicles. The iX3 will be launched in the 50 xDrive version and is expected to reach Indian shores in the first half of 2027. The company is set to assemble the vehicle in their Chennai facility to take advantage of the tax benefits. This is indeed a great contrast as Mercedes has opted for first-mover advantage over BMW which appears to be relying on pricing and efficiency.
Also Read: Top 10 EV Cars in India 2026: 500+ km Range, Prices & Specs
Pricing: BMW iX3 vs. Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC
The Electric GLC is priced at Rs 78.5 lakh (ex-showroom), which is competitive for a luxury electric SUV. On-road, that works out to roughly Rs 82.84 lakh in Mumbai and Pune and Rs 90.73 lakh in Delhi.
The iX3 carries an estimated price of Rs 65-70 lakh. That is not confirmed, so treat it as a guide only. If BMW delivers on that figure, the iX3 would undercut the Electric GLC by Rs 8 to 13 lakh, which is a big gap in this segment.
Powertrain and Performance: The Core Difference
This is where the two SUVs genuinely diverge.
|
Specification |
Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC |
BMW iX3 (expected) |
|---|---|---|
|
Variant |
GLC 400 4MATIC |
50 xDrive |
|
Battery |
94 kWh |
108.7 kWh |
|
Motors |
Dual electric |
Dual electric |
|
Power |
482 bhp |
469 bhp |
|
Torque |
800 Nm |
645 Nm |
|
WLTP Range |
711 km |
805 km |
|
Fast Charging |
Up to 300 km in 10 minutes |
372 km in 10 minutes (400 kW DC) |
The GLC makes 13 bhp and 155 Nm more, while the iX3 carries a 14.7 kWh larger battery and 94 km more claimed range. The charging figures come from different conditions, because the iX3's 372 km assumes a 400 kW charger, so compare them with care.
Shared Feature Highlights

Both SUVs bring a long equipment list for the segment:
- Multi-zone climate control
- Powered front seats
- Level 2 ADAS
- Digital screens with a custom operating system
- Full LED lighting package
- Dual electric motors with all-wheel drive
The real difference is the dashboard. The iX3 gets a massive 17.9-inch infotainment display and an optional 3D head-up-display-based instrument cluster, which may be standard for India. Mercedes has also gone big on screens.
Also Read: Toyota Glanza Facelift vs Tata Altroz: Full Specs Comparison
BMW iX3 vs Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC: Spec Comparison
|
Parameter |
Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC |
BMW iX3 (expected) |
|---|---|---|
|
Price (Ex-Showroom) |
Rs 78.5 lakh |
Rs 65-70 lakh (estimated) |
|
Length |
4.85 m |
4.78 m |
|
Wheelbase |
2.97 m |
2.80 m (SWB), 3.00 m (LWB) |
|
Boot Space |
570 litres |
520 litres |
|
Local Assembly |
Pune |
Chennai (expected) |
|
Availability |
Launched 4 November 2026, sold out till March 2027 |
Expected in 2027 |
The GLC is the longer SUV with the bigger boot. The long-wheelbase iX3, at 3.00 metres, edges it for rear-seat room on paper.
Who Should Consider Which Electric SUV?
Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC
Best for buyers who want a luxury electric SUV now, along with more power, a bigger boot and a proven price. Be ready to wait, though, because the order book is sold out till March 2027. Buyers who value space and punch over outright range will like what the GLC offers.
BMW iX3
A smart choice for buyers waiting until 2027 for the longest range in the class. With a WLTP figure of 805 km along with potentially quicker charging and a lower price, it becomes the wise choice for long-distance driving. Confirm local pricing and specifications before any commitment as it has not been finalized yet.
Conclusion
The BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC are closely matched on features, so the choice comes down to range, space, and price. The Electric GLC brings 482 bhp, 570 litres of boot space, and availability today at Rs 78.5 lakh. The iX3 brings a larger 108.7 kWh battery, 805 km claimed range, and a possible price advantage. If BMW prices the locally assembled iX3 sharply in 2027, this rivalry will get a lot closer.
Also Read This |
|
|---|---|
|
Top 10 Best-Selling Cars in India October 2026 Led by WagonR |
|
|
Nissan Gravite vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga vs Mahindra Bolero: Comparison Guide |
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Aakash Mehra
Automotive Journalist & Car Reviewer. Aakash Mehra is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 9 years of experience in car journalism and consumer-focused reviews. Having test-driven more than 550+ vehicles, he delivers detailed comparisons, expert insights, and unbiased advice to help readers confidently choose the right car.