Last week, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) launched the all-new X254-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC. There were a couple of things to note – it’s currently offered in the sole GLC 300 variant and it’s fully-imported (CBU) from the Bremen plant in Germany.

Why only one variant?

In Malaysia, the GLC 300 will be the only available variant and may remain so for the entire product lifecycle. In other markets, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is available in multiple variants including a mild-hybrid petrol variant, the GLC 200, and two PHEV petrol variants which are the GLC 300e and GLC 400e.

The GLC 200 is currently exclusive to left-hand-drive markets and it remains to be seen if Mercedes-Benz will produce a right-hand drive version.

Also read: Priced from RM 430k, all-new X254 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is launched in Malaysia

As for the PHEV variants, MBM expressed that there is no intention to introduce the GLC 300e in Malaysia unless there is a demand.

It was explained further that they believe Malaysian buyers who are interested in PHEVs would prefer to choose from MBM's fully electric EQ range, which includes five battery-EV models ranging in price from the EQA to the EQS.

Also read: No X254 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 or PHEV for Malaysia? Here's MBM's response

When will the locally-assembled (CKD) 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC arrive?

The CKD 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is expected to arrive in H2 2023, according to Sagree Sardien, President and CEO of MBM.

Judging based on the timeline of the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the introduction of the CKD model took roughly 6 months from the launch of the CBU version. We can expect a similar timeframe for the CKD 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC, which means we would be looking at a introduction closer to Q4 2023.

How many units of the CBU Mercedes-Benz GLC will be sold?

While MBM did not reveal the total number of CBU units allocated, we learnt that order books for the CBU Mercedes-Benz GLC have been quite substantial and is almost sold out upon launch.

Outstanding orders for the CBU 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 will be transferred to CKD model, which as mentioned earlier, is expected to be introduced sometime in Q4 later this year.

Also read: RM 430k but almost sold out upon launch - Unfulfilled orders for CBU 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 to be transferred to CKD model

Is Malaysia the first in SEA to launch the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC?

Yes. MBM CEO Sagree Sardien pointed to the exponential growth of SUV sales in Malaysia as the rationale to host the debut here in Southeast Asia. Adding to that, the previous-generation X253 GLC sold over 12,000 units in Malaysia since its introduction in 2016 – contributing 16 percent of MBM’s total sales.

The X253 GLC’s popularity also meant that there was a period when demand outweighed the number of units produced, highlighting the importance of the GLC in Malaysia.

Also read: This is why Malaysia is the first market in ASEAN to get the all-new X254 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC

What powers the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC?

The CBU 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 AMG Line is priced from RM 429,888. It uses a 48V mild-hybrid system that is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 petrol engine with 258 PS/400 Nm.

The 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) adds 23 PS and 200 Nm, aiding efficiency and gives temporary boost. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.

What are the features in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC wears the AMG Line exterior package with a more aggressive front fascia and gloss black trims around the car. It rides on passive Agility Control suspension, but one-ups the W206 Mercedes-Benz C300 with the top-shelf Digital Light headlamps.

Inside, its dashboard is practically lifted off the W206 C-Class with a 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch widescreen display for the instrument cluster. 

Operating the screens is the MBUX system, which controls a variety of vehicle functions as well as offering a host of features like the augmented reality navigation, the Transparent Bonnet feature that allows one to ‘see-through’ under the hood when tackling tough terrains, and a fingerprint scanner.

Also read: Customized for either the Mr or Mrs, the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a fingerprint scanner

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is supported, while audio is channelled through the Burmester 3D surround sound system (the W206 C-Class does not get Burmester regardless of variants).

Other items include the dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charger, Artico man-made leather, powered front seats with memory function, and 64-colour ambient lighting. 

As for advanded safety, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC gets Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Parking Package with 360-degree camera.

Conclusion

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is available in only one variant – the GLC 300 AMG Line, priced from RM 429,888 – and it’s currently CBU from Germany, with plans for CKD at the Pekan plant. We’re expecting a Q4 introduction for the CKD 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC in Malaysia.

Also read: Mercedes-Benz plans to launch 20 new models in Malaysia in 2023, new EQ and AMG models