since 1976
since 1976
MERCEDES-Benz has firmly shed its stuffy snob and staid appeal for a fun and family image since its SUV (sport utility vehicle) range was introduced some years ago. With each successive model updates, the fun and family factor was increasingly the underlying appeal that appeared to gel with buyers looking beyond the success story that the Mercedes-Benz brand commands.
True, you still would need to be someone who is successful in life to be the owner of a Mercedes-Benz, no matter what form or guise it takes. The fact is that this German carmaker has succeeded in drawing the attention of a younger set of customers as well as the more outgoing ones with its fresh design and styling takes on its SUV range.
The two latest models that were launched here recently continued that more adventurous theme and to emphasise this outdoorsy character, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced them to potential customers with a lifestyle bash. This saw a weekend dedicated to an adventure of rock-climbing and other fun experiences as well as a concert.
These two models are both AMG variants from their respective range; the GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line and GLC 300 Coupé AMG Line. Yes, a GLC facelift version was introduced recently in Europe but that would probably arrive in Malaysia towards the end of the year. Till then, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is making the current GLC range exciting while it lasts.
Perhaps the more salient note is that this GLC 300 Coupé AMG Line is locally assembled at the Pekan plant and this makes it an attractive option at RM399,888 on the road without insurance. With the quality of the respective Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs from this plant in Pahang being consistently high, the GLC 300 Coupé AMG Line Crossover should draw its share of subscribers.
Its power credentials are good; a 2.0-litre (1991cc) four-cylinder engine that delivers 180kW (245hp) at 5500rpm and 370Nm from a very low 1300rpm to 4000rpm. The transmission is 9G-Tronic Plus with Dynamic Select. Acceleration is strong taking off from the lights to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 236km/h if you have the road and the will to tempt the speed cameras.
As its name suggests, it draws a dynamic outline with its AMG fittings that include the sporty accessories, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, aluminium-look running boards and 20-inch multi-spoke light alloy wheels. The ‘innovative’ headlamp concept in the LED (light emitting diode) Intelligent Light System units adds its unique touch to bring out its sporty Coupé character. It also comes with the latest technology such as Lane Tracking Package, Blind Spot Assist and MBA rear spoiler.
The interior lives up to expectations with its Artico leather upholstery, illuminated door sills, AMG sport pedals and a choice of black piano lacquer look or light longitudinal grain aluminium trim. Rounding up the AMG feel is the AMG sports steering with flat bottom that promises a firm grip for that sporty drive. Adding to its luxury feel are the latest Hands Free Access convenience and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic.
For those who want a bigger SUV that provides comfortable family motoring, the GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line is definitely the one to fulfil their demands. Seen as the new generation SUV, it comes with an active suspension system with E-Active Body Control and the Active Stop-and-Go Assist driving systems.
The former features a fully networked hydro-pneumatic system and Mercedes says this world’s first active suspension on a 48-volt basis combines with the newly developed air suspension to deliver ‘greater performance’ on the road with individual control for each wheel.
This GLE 450 also comes with the MBUX, Mercedes-Benz User Experience, which is said to be an improvement over that in the A-Class and its debuts include two large 31.2cm screens that are arranged side by side for a wide screen look. It includes Linguatronic that is said to ‘obey every word from the driver’. The MBUX multimedia system also ‘recognises and understands’ every sentence occurring in the infotainment functions and driving operation.
Its dynamic AMG body is complemented by the diamond radiator grille with chrome pins, 22-inch AMG five twin-spoke light alloy wheels, multi-beam LED headlamp graphics, panoramic sliding sunroof and a ‘sensual interior’ with brushed aluminium trim.
The new generation features in the Acoustic Comfort Package are said to provide a quieter ride, which is a quality desired often in such an SUV. Mercedes says the system reduces disruptive noise even when driving at high speeds. There is also a noise damping film on the laminated glass of the windscreen and side windows to improve soundproofing.
Powering the GLE 450 AMG Line is a turbocharged 3.0-litre (2999cc) six-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 270kW (367hp) at 5500 to 6100rpm and 500Nm from 1600rpm to 4500rpm. This engine is also paired with the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission with Dynamic Select. Gaining from a better power-to-weight ratio, the GLE 450 sprints to 100km/h in a quicker 5.7 seconds and a top speed capped at 250km/h.
The GLE 450 is an imported SUV and that means a higher price of RM633,888 for a five-seater model and RM638,888 for a seven-seater variant. These prices are on the road without insurance.
Specification – Link here
Specs Sheet - The New Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe.pdf
Specs Sheet - The New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line.pdf
