I'M lucky in that I get to drive a lot of different cars, however, it can become a bit ‘samey'.

Then, something comes along and gets under your skin. This time, it was the mightily impressive and increasingly popular Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 e.

If you're after a premium, seven-seater SUV, this has to be the benchmark - and it's a petrol-electric hybrid too, albeit a plug-in.

It boasts class-leading range and efficiency and some of the best in-car technology you can find.

This is because it now comes with Mercedes' latest MBUX infotainment system with an easy-to-use 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

There's also a row of shortcut buttons below the touchscreen which offers quick and easy access to key functions, including driving modes.

These consist of: Eco, Sport, and Hybrid, which combines both power units for best efficiency. There's an Electric mode, which uses the electric motor wherever possible; and Save, which holds the battery charge for later in the journey.

Naturally, the interior is plush and a genuinely pleasant place to be over long distances. Simply sumptuous.

Officially, the 300 e is capable of a massive 565mpg but you'll only get anywhere near that if you run solely on the leccy. After that ran out, I drove it as a ‘normal' car and achieved exactly 37mpg. Bearing in mind I had a couple of fun spurts in Sport mode.

It promises up to 80 miles of pure electric running from its 31kWh battery and I managed well over 60, which I thought impressive. Certainly, ideal for those who have the luxury of installing a home charger.

The GLC is now only offered in AMG Line trim, with the option to upgrade to either Premium or Premium Plus packs.

Without upgrading, you get 19-inch wheels - 20-inch wheels were fitted to the car I was driving - LED high performance headlamps and redesigned LED taillights, privacy glass, extremely comfortable sports seats, and the excellent infotainment system with wireless phone charging.

To help with manoevring, there's a 360-degree camera system. And a spanking 15-speaker Burmester stereo for those who like their tunes.

The boot in the GLC PHEV is 395 litres with the rear seats up or 1,445 litres with them folded, and it'll tow up to two tonnes.

Wen running on electric around town, the GLC is as quiet as a ghost, however, even on the dual carriageway, it's impressively refined. Standard air suspension keeps the ride comfortable though, if you press it too hard into a sharp corner, there is a little body roll.