By now, you've probably read that the W205 Mercedes-Benz C200 is sold out in Malaysia, and that the Mercedes Benz W206 C-Class' launch is imminent. While we wait in anticipation of that, let's take a closer look at the estimated pricing of the incoming model.

To do that, we will give you an insight into how the current W205 was priced in fully-imported (CBU) and locally-assembled (CKD) formats, and how long did it take for the CKD models to arrive after the initial CBU market introduction. 

Also read: Old vs New: 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W206), like the new design better?

CBU, then CKD formats

Mercedes-Benz, like its counterpart BMW, have traditionally introduced the CBU models at market introduction for its volume models. This will then be followed less than a year later with the CKD variants. Expect the W206 C-Class to be no different.

Therefore, it's realistic to believe that prices of the incoming W206 C-Class to be more expensive than the outgoing W205, which will then drop slightly upon introduction of the locally-assembled (CKD) versions. 

Let's dive into some pricing history of the W205 C-Class.

All round, the W205 C-Class saw a price reduction between five to fifteen percent when the CKD version was introduced. It's also worth noting that it took all of seven months for the W205 C-Class to go from CBU to CKD, which is considerably quick.

What about its arch-nemesis, the BMW G20 3 Series? Do bear in mind that the G20 320i didn't appear in CBU form, as it was only launched as a CKD-only model. Nonetheless, let's take a look at the 330i variant. 

 Interestingly, the G20 330i experienced a whopping twelve percent price reduction, moving from CBU to CKD. What was the gap between CBU market introduction and CKD launch? Less than six months.

Expect the W206 C-Class to touch RM 300k?

Based on the historical data above (CBU W205 C200 Avantgarde was RM 285,888), it's not unreasonable to assume that the price of the W206 C200 to hit / reach very close to the RM 300,000 mark. This is in no small part due to a weaker Ringgit today versus 2014, when the W205 C-Class was launched.

Equally, we would expect a rather fast turnaround time from the W206's CBU market launch to the introduction of CKD models. Six to eight months sounds like a realistic timeline. However, we have to take into account the current Covid-19 and MCO situations, which has already delayed the market launch of some models. 

Also read: Initially slated for Malaysia launch in Q3 2021, all-new Honda Civic FE is delayed

But wait, you can still buy a brand-new C300 AMG Line

Well, yes, the W205 C200 is sold out, but you can still buy a brand new W205 C300 AMG Line for RM 291,800. Remember I mentioned that the incoming W206 C-Class will touch RM 300k, even at entry level? 

Well, for around that money, or less, you bag the range-topping (full-blooded AMG models aside) W205 C300 AMG Line that has a

• 2.0-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (261 PS, 370 Nm),
• 9-speed automatic transmission
• Panoramic roof
• Burmester sound system
• ADAS suite
• Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Sports Suspension

What about Airmatic suspension, you ask? Well that feature was dropped from the C300 last year, replaced by a more traditional Sports Suspension. 

In any case, the W205 C300 AMG Line is everything you'd want in a premium compact sports sedan. Sure, it is at the end of its model cycle, but it's still a pretty good deal nonetheless. 

Conclusion

We know it's only a matter of time before the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is unveiled on our shores. It goes without saying that the W206 has massive shoes to fill, seeing how popular and well-received its predecessor was.

From what we have gathered so far, the W206 C-Class does seem to have all the right ingredients to carry on the fight to the G20 BMW 3 Series. This will be the next chapter of the Teutonic sports sedan rivalry. Stay tuned.