Mercedes-Benz GLC 200
THE GLC is a much younger model than the Harrier, having debuted in 2015 to replace the GLK-Class. Since then, the GLC has become an important growth driver for Mercedes-Benz. To widen the appeal, Mercedes-Benz has sliced and diced the model range and put together an entry version that’s more affordable.
How does RM276,351 sound? But it won’t stay this way once the re-introduced Sales & Services Tax is applied on Sept 1.
The GLC 200 is a chunky, attractively styled SUV and appeals as much to soccer mums as those aspiring to acquire their first luxury SUV.
Despite the GLC 200 being only rear-wheel driven, Mercedes-Benz has, oddly enough, pitched it as being offroad-oriented. The GLC 200 receives off-road suspension package with raised ride height, an imitative underguard and aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs to round off the effect. It also gets generous amounts of exterior chrome. Just check out the front, the sides and the rear to see what we mean. Like most non-4WD SUVs, the GLC 200 is able to perform light offroading and we reckis on this one way to give it a clear differentiation from the sportier GLC 250 4Matic. At the very least, the higher ground clearance of the GLC 200 should make it easier to cross flooded roads. LED headlamps with the curly LED DRLs flanked an intricate grillework with the huge Mercedes star as the centrepiece. Keeping cost down, the headlights have the adaptive high beam assist and cornering feature deleted. Keyless entry is also absent.
The cabin, with all its meters and controls, is a spitting image of the C-Class except that the GLC has a higher ride height advantage.
Obviously for less money you get less kit but Mercedes has been careful to ensure the lowest-priced GLC still have what we call essential luxury so that you won’t feel this is any less of a Mercedes.
Black synthetic leather upholstery pairs well with Brown Ash wood trim.
Seating space for five is comfortable and adequate.
The SUV has a good-sized boot, which can be expanded by flattening the one-touch split-folding rear seats.
Safety equipment levels are high and include Collision Prevention Assist Plus, seven airbags, Attention Assist, Crosswind Assist, Pre-Safe system. and adaptive brake lights.
The GLC 200 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4 in-line engine, which produces 184hp and 300Nm of torque.
Power is relayed to the rear wheels via a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
The GLC 200 is no sluggard and the power surge is progressive.
We enjoyed the way momentum builds up as we toggle to the more aggressive drive modes. It’s equipped with paddle shifters; but we rarely found the need to use them, as the gears shift quickly and smoothly.
Steering feel is muted but can be improved somewhat in S and S+ modes.
The GLC 200 tackles corners confidently and oversteer is easily handled with the onboard electronic nannies.
The SUV is in its element when cruising on the highways, making for a very pleasant and pliant ride.
In hilly ascents, the SUV shows it’s up to the task once the engine revs up to its power band and stays there.
It tackles rough roads with poise. In wet slippery conditions, the Pirelli tyres grip strongly and effective stoppers make for a short and safe braking distance.