W206 2023 Mercedes-Benz C300 to be discontinued in Malaysia, replaced by C350e PHEV

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the C350e, is set to be introduced in Malaysia. Information obtained from Mercedes-Benz dealers indicates that the C300 variant will be phased out and replaced by the C350e by the end of 2023.

Currently, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available with two variants - the C200 Avantgarde and C300 AMG Line, priced at RM 292,888 and RM 333,888 respectively. Both are locally assembled (CKD) at the Pekan plant.

Also read: CKD 2022 (W206) Mercedes-Benz C-Class launched in Malaysia, cheaper by up to RM 17k

The Mercedes-Benz C200 is equipped with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine paired a 48V integrated starter generator (ISG), making it a mild-hybrid (MHEV) unit. It makes 204 PS/300 Nm.

Meanwhile, the C300 gets a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 258 PS/400 Nm. Both engines are paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Also read: Review: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C200 - Is the base baby S-Class good enough or well above its weight?

Previously in 2017, the W205 generation Mercedes-Benz C350e was launched in Malaysia with three variants, priced from RM 289,888 to RM 299,888, though it was discontinued not long after in 2018.

BMW’s equivalent is the 330e, which is available in Malaysia in the sole M Sport trim, priced at RM 298,800 (inclusive of the extended warranty and service package).

In Thailand, the W206 Mercedes-Benz C350e was launched in November 2022, priced at 3,350,000 Baht (around RM 439k at current rates).

Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 204 PS/320 Nm on its own. An electric motor boosts total output to 313 PS/550 Nm, sent to the rear wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.

It gets a 25.4-kWh battery that is claimed to achieve up to 100 km of pure electric driving range (WLTP), reaching speeds of up to 140 km/h.

Unlike typical PHEVs, the C350e accepts DC fast charging (via CCS Combo 2 connector) at a maximum rate of 50 kW, while AC charging is rated at 11 kW.

Also read: W206 2022 Mercedes-Benz C350e PHEV launched in Thailand, price equals to RM 425k