New Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC now assembled locally

The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLC – the SUV variant of the C-Class – arrived in Malaysia in April this year. As with other brand new models, it was imported in CBU (completely built-up) form but Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also said that a locally-assembled version would be forthcoming.

RM51,000 savings when assembled locally
The locally-assembled version is now available as the GLC 300 4MATIC, coming from MBM’s facility in Pekan, Pahang. Local assembly means lower taxes imposed and at RM378,888, there are savings of RM51,000 compared to the CBU model (excluding insurance).

“With over 12,000 units sold since 2016, the GLC maintains its status as bestselling Mercedes-Benz SUV in Malaysia, offering a harmonious blend of luxury, versatility, and driving pleasure. The introduction of the locally-assembled GLC marks a significant milestone in our journey, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to delivering uncompromised quality to our valued customers in Malaysia. This development is a testament to our customer-centric approach, as we continually strive to provide our valued customers with the best possible experiences,” said Bettina Plangger, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia & SEA II.

AMG Line for sportier appearance
The new GLC is offered with the AMG Line which adds a sporty touch to the appearance. Polished aluminium roof rails and aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs are standard fitment, adding to the SUV image.

At the rear, there is a simulated underguard and tailpipe trim finished in chrome. The 2-part rear lights have a 3-dimensional design, connected by a glossy black trim element.

The AMG elements consist of AMG front apron with sporty air intakes and chrome trim along with a diffuser-look rear apron. The flush 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are also styled by AMG.

The new GLC comes with DIGITAL LIGHT, an intelligent lighting system which constantly adapts illumination spread and intensity according to various conditions (ambient light levels, other traffic, weather, etc). This ensures that the driver will have the best illumination possible at all times, without affecting the visibility of other road-users.

AMG Line treatment within as well
As with the exterior, the GLC 300 4MATIC also gets AMG Line treatment within, adding a more visible and tangible sense of sportiness.  The AMG Line includes features such as ARTICO man-made leather upholstery in black, MICROCUT microfibre and the AMG sports pedals.

The multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather has a distinctive design, featuring double spokes in the horizontal position and a flattened bottom section which draws inspiration from motorsport.

The dashboard is clearly structured, with the upper section having a wing-like profile incorporating newly designed flattened round nozzles which are reminiscent of engine nacelles on aircraft. The lower section has a generous trim area that blends into the curved centre console with a metal-structure finish.

Ahead of the driver, the 12.3-inch high-resolution display screen appears to hover freely before the wing profile and trim area. To the left side is an 11.9-inch central display which rises seamlessly from the centre console. Both the dashboard and screen surfaces are subtly angled towards the driver for optimal visibility and convenience.

Latest MBUX
Like every new Mercedes-Benz introduced since 2018, the new GLC comes with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. It has been constantly upgraded over the years and the latest version has advanced digital capabilities and intelligence. These include full-screen navigation with MBUX Augmented Reality.

The increased rear overhang allows for significantly larger luggage capacity of 620 litres. Loading and unloading are easy with the hands-free operation of the rear door which is activated by placing a foot under the rear end.

The GLC also comes with a new Parking package with a 360-degree camera and the functions of Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC. This combination ensures optimal visibility from all angles and facilitates the full parking process.

The camera view also comes in useful when driving off-road. As shown in the picture above, it allows the driver to have a virtual view of the terrain under the front of the vehicle, so obstacles and hazards can be spotted. There are also simulated images of the front wheels which show their angle in real-time, further assisting the driver when manoeuvring in difficult situations.

48V mild hybrid powertrain
The GLC 300 4MATIC has a 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 258 bhp/400 Nm. For this new generation, Mercedes-Benz has made it a 48V mild hybrid system with the addition of an integrated starter-generator. This provides an additional 17 kW (23 ps)/200 Nm to enhance performance of the 1,925 kg vehicle.

Power flow is through a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission and the 4MATIC system distributes the power to all the wheels in an intelligent manner. Generally, the distribution is constantly varied between 45:55 up to 50:50, depending on surface conditions.

Implementing new agency model as ‘Retail of the Future’