In Brief: New 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line - good enough against the 2020 BMW 320i

Recently, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) launched the locally-built (CKD) 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line with a new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine. 

No hybrid options here - with this AMG Line, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia effectively phased out the C200 Avantgarde and its turbocharged 1.5-litre EQ Boost mild hybrid motor. 

How much is the W205 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line?

Prices start at RM 251,587.39 including tax and duties - RM 8,300 cheaper compared to the C200 Avantgarde that sold for RM 259,888.

Any new performance differences?

Besides the increased displacement, there's also an overall increase in power and efficiency. My colleague, Jason sheds more light on the engine here.

The AMG Line also gets a sports suspension that is noticeably stiffer than the Agility Control system in the C200 Avantgarde. 

Anything new visually?

Outside, it gets the AMG Line treatment. There's the diamond grille with chrome detailing, and AMG-specific front apron and rear bumper that includes an integrated diffuser.

LED head and tail lights are retained on this model.

All four corners also get lightweight, five-spoke AMG wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza tyres. 

Going inside

Anthracite headlining and open-pore oak wood trimmings break up the predominantly black interior.

The steering wheel is now wrapped in partly perforated Nappa leather with metallic surface pads and features galvanised shift paddles.

Hand-made Artico inserts and AMG sports pedals add a sportier flair.

In the middle, there’s an Audio 20 infotainment system nestled inside the 10.25-inch touchscreen.

Alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the C200 AMG Line gets Mercedes me connect - basically allowing one to check on the status of their car through an iOS or Android app.

In terms of safety, the AMG Line keeps everything the Avantgarde had - 7 airbags, active brake assist, blind spot monitor, reverse camera, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and Speedtronic cruise control.

Adding another layer of safety is Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe - a system that senses an unavoidable collision and prepares occupants by tightening the front seat belts, closing opened windows and adjusting head restraints. 

What’s not and what’s hot about the C200 AMG Line?

It’s age is the most apparent. This model has been in the market since 2014, so it’s about time that we get a new model. 

As much as that would be nice, the latest global-market C-Class isn’t fully ready yet, so it’s safe to assume that this is the last refresh for the W205 series C-Class in Malaysia.

Comfort is another issue. Although the sports AMG suspension does feel rather similar to the Avantgarde's Agility Control, it feels harsh on uneven, bumpier surfaces. 

It also feels quite hesitant on curvy roads, and that doesn’t inspire much confidence. It lacks precisely where 2020 BMW 320i (G20) excels.

On a more positive note, its fit and finish is better than the BMW. 

The Audio 20 infotainment system packs a punch, and its easy to control. 

The new engine is markedly better than the previous 1.5-litre mill. It performs better, feels smoother and is more refined.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for an executive sedan for around RM 250,000, this C200 AMG Line is still worth a look.

It’s certainly a looker, and its non-hybrid engine is generally cheaper and easier to maintain.

Besides traditional financing options, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also offers a lease programme that encapsulates road tax, insurance and maintenance, even for pre-owned vehicles. 

Sure, it's new, but there's no hiding its older underpinnings. In a nutshell: it lacks the fine refinements you'd expect in the new BMW 320i. You'd also do well to take a look at the 2020 Mazda 6 2.5 facelift is a feature-packed option that will be reliable in years to come.