Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 (X254) today.
The new GLC is only available as a single-variant line-up for now it comes with a mild hybrid (MHEV) powertrain with a 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) system and a recognisable body design that is unmistakably GLC.
Exterior
Codenamed X254, the new GLC 300 takes on a similar design as the C-Class as both have swept-back headlights with an angular inner side and a rounder elevated outer side.
The digital headlights have a system that works like projectors and respond by constantly adapting the headlight to changing traffic, road, or weather conditions, automatically dimming to avoid glaring oncoming traffic and automatically illuminating dark spots on the road.
The new GLC features a sportier front end, split tail lights and light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 45.7 cm (18 inches) to 50.8 cm (20 inches).
The front also has a large mesh-covered star grille and a chromed horizontal slat that houses the three-pointed star logo located in the middle.
The rear end of the vehicle comes with chrome trim surrounding the exhaust finishers and a faux skid plate. The rear lights bridged design which makes it look sleek and futuristic.
Interior
On the inside, the vehicle is luxurious yet sporty, with adjustable headrests for the front seats. Mercedes-Benz included a second, 11.9″ touch-screen atop the center stack and installed a 12.3″ screen as the instrument panel on the dashboard.
The centerpiece includes two cupholders and a wireless phone charger, as well as an armrest with more storage underneath. Also available are climate controls as well as support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
A colour head-up display is also available as an option. It also has the Mercedes Me App, which can link to Apple or Android devices. Also available are the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats.
The new GLC also gets the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) interface with the optional Augmented Reality (AR). This AR set-up employs a forward-facing camera to record the surroundings in front of the SUV and the visual feed is displayed on the central infotainment tablet screen.
Moreover, streaming via the “Internet Music” service is possible thanks to the integrated OTA update systems.
Powertrain
The GLC exclusively offers electrified powertrains with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) on a 48-volt architecture for the drivetrain. No matter what engine variant is used, the car only has a nine-speed automated transmission, which guarantees seamless gear changes.
Engine/Performance Specs:
- Engine: MHEV 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged (M 254)
- Max. Power: 258 hp + 23 hp ISG boost
- Max. Torque: 400 Nm + 200 Nm ISG boost
- Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
- Drivetrain: AWD (45:55)
- 0-100 km/h: 6.2 seconds
- Top Speed: 240 km/h
The Driving Assistance package features advanced driver assistance systems like Active Distance Assist, which can now react to stationary vehicles on the road ahead while travelling at speeds of up to 100 km/h (up from 60 km/h), and Active Steering Assist, which now has lane detection.
The GLC300 4Matic AMG Line is priced at RM429,888 without insurance and a standard four-year warranty.
Whether or not the PHEV variants will be introduced to the Malaysian market is still unsure.
