PHEV Mercedes-Benz GLC350 e 4MATIC Launched In Malaysia

This PHEV variant of the Mercedes-Benz GLC lands locally wearing a price tag of RM 398,888. 

When Mercedes-Benz Malaysia first launched the X254-generation of GLC over here early last year, it arrived only in GLC300 4MATIC guise. First in fully-imported spec, before being locally-assembled later in that year. 

Fast forward nearly exactly a year on though from Mercedes-Benz first announcing the CKD version of its GLC300 4MATIC, and this purely-petrol variant has since already been phased out. And in its place now instead is the newly-launched plug-in hybrid GLC350e 4MATIC trim, which incidentally is also to be locally assembled right here in Pekan and comes costing RM 398,888. 

Powering the GLC350e 4MATIC is essentially the same PHEV powertrain that is featured in the similarly electrified C350 e and the newly-launched E350 e, with the ICE component of it being taken care of by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot that churns out 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Supporting the engine meanwhile is an electric motor rated at 100 kW and a torque of 440 Nm, thereby resulting in a combined system output of 313 hp and a peak torque of 550 Nm.

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h for the GLC350e is currently quoted by Mercedes-Benz to be over in just 6.7 seconds, with it then supposedly capable of charging to a top speed of 218 km/h. As for the topic of actually topping up its batteries on the other hand, the 31.2 kWh pack (that is slightly larger than its sedan siblings and is said to incidentally yield up to 131 km of WLTP-rated EV range by the way) can accept up to 11 kW of AC supply for a full charge in 2 hours. 

Equipment levels for the GLC350 e mirrors much of what was previously offered in its purely petrol counterpart that it replaces, bar the notable inclusion here of the Driving Assistance Package Plus. This thus sees it now net a suite of ADAS tech that includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with extended automatic restart function on motorways, Active Stop-and-Go Assist, and Active Steering Assist with hands-off warning, in addition to Active Brake Assist with vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian detection, Cross-traffic function, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Blind Spot Assist.

This new PHEV variant still retains the GLC300’s AMG Line exterior package, which naturally sees it net an AMG front apron with chrome trim to accent its standard LED Digital Light projector headlights and signature Mercedes-Benz pattern grille. Featured on this sporty(-look) SUV too are a rear apron with a diffuser look and a set of 3D rear lights connected by a glossy black trim, as well as a set of 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels down its profile and a panoramic sliding sunroof up top. 

Inside, the GLC350 e 4MATIC is similarly equipped with the AMG Line interior. Key elements include black ARTICO man-made leather upholstery, MICROCUT microfiber, AMG sports pedals, and a multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather with a distinctive flattened bottom section.

The same 11.9-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen from the GLC300 is still to be found in this PHEV Benz SUV, with it to feature MBUX Navigation Premium and Augmented Reality for enhanced route guidance. Other notable cabin tech toys worth a mention here includes a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 360-degree camera system with a “transparent bonnet” function.

Nadia Trimmel, Vice President of Marketing & Sales, Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia said, “The new Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 e 4MATIC offers customers the best of both worlds, delivering the seamless performance and reliability of a combustion engine paired with the efficiency and quiet comfort of electric driving. With up to 131 km of electric range (WLTP), drivers can enjoy smooth and quiet city journeys while having the power and versatility for longer distances when needed. This plug-in hybrid offers the flexibility to adapt to any driving situation, while benefiting from the luxury, innovation, and advanced technology that define Mercedes-Benz. It’s the true bridge to the future of mobility, offering the convenience and performance our customers expect, with enhanced efficiency at every turn.”

*On the road without Insurance. With 10% Sales Tax.