Mercedes-Benz GLC200 4Matic debuts, offering a more accessible entry price at RM329,888

【PCauto】With the new X254 platform gradually making its way into the market, Mercedes-Benz is taking the lead by making its luxury mid-size SUV lineup more approachable.

The all-new GLC200 4Matic has been launched at a price of RM329,888 – a substantial RM69,000 less than the GLC350e 4Matic from the same series.

The powertrain of the GLC200 4Matic is relatively basic

The GLC200 4Matic replaces the previously discontinued GLC300 4Matic. It's powered by a familiar 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 204 PS and 320 Nm. This is complemented by a 48V Mild-Hybrid system, which adds a brief boost of 23 PS and 205 Nm, resulting in smoother and more linear acceleration.

Mated to a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, the GLC200 can go from 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, with a top speed of 221 km/h.

While the GLC350e (with 313 PS and 550 Nm) boasts significantly more power, the GLC200's conventional internal combustion engine paired with a mild-hybrid system makes it better suited for mainstream needs, offering lower daily running and maintenance costs. After all, the GLC200 is a more accessible entry model.

Exterior & Interior: Maintaining the Luxury Feel

Even though the GLC200 is an entry-level model, it does not appear basic in terms of visuals. Standard kit includes the AMG Line exterior package, 20-inch AMG five-spoke wheels, LED High Performance headlights, and sports-style pedals with rubber anti-slip pads. This ensures its overall appearance remains highly consistent with the more advanced GLC350e.

Unlike the PHEV models which get the fancy Digital Light system, the GLC200 makes do with a simpler, yet still highly functional, LED headlight setup.

Inside, the sporty luxury theme continues. You get an AMG Line interior trimmed with Artico synthetic leather, a Nappa leather multifunction steering wheel, front electric seats with heating and memory functions, and Anthracite line-structure lime wood trim. The cabin quality is right up there with what you'd expect in this class.

The tech core remains the 11.9-inch central touchscreen and the 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The built-in MBUX system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and also includes fingerprint recognition. From the wireless charging pad and six USB-C fast-charging ports to the rear sunshades, all aspects of daily comfort are well covered.

A key practical advantage is the boot space. Freed from the constraints of a large battery pack, the GLC200's luggage capacity returns to a very usable 620 litres. That's a significant step up from the 490 litres offered by the battery-compromised GLC350e.

On the safety front, the GLC200 comes equipped with Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, among other features. This suite of driver aids covers most scenarios you'll encounter daily.

The optional MBUX Navigation Premium and AR Navigation further enhance the navigation experience and are part of the Digital Extras options available later via the Mercedes-Benz application subscription.

In the local luxury SUV market, the GLC200's direct rival is the BMW X3 xDrive20i. The BMW is priced at RM320,800, putting it in a very similar bracket to the Merc. It also uses a 2.0L turbo engine with a 48V Mild-Hybrid system.

In terms of output, the X3's 190 PS and 310 Nm are slightly lower than the GLC200's figures. Ultimately, the choice between the two will likely come down to brand preference and which design language speaks to you more, as they cater to slightly different tastes.

So, the launch of the GLC200 4Matic isn't just about a lower entry price. For buyers who don't necessarily need top-tier power or a plug-in hybrid setup, it presents a compellingly well-rounded and balanced package that's easier to live with day-to-day.