Mercedes-AMG EQE in Malaysia: Why only one variant, and should you wait for the CKD version?
Sanjay · Jun 8, 2023 02:14 PM
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Pictured: the Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4Matic, not available here
Earlier today, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) introduced the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4Matic+, to the tune of RM 649,888 (on-the-road sans insurance). Notably, it's only offered in that sole variant – the cheaper AMG EQE 43 that's available in other markets didn't make it here.
Sagree Sardien, President & CEO of MBM clarifies the reasons behind that decision. "We believe that the EQE 53 4Matic+ is the right positioning for our customer base and range, and fits very nicely in our portfolio," she said at the car's launch event, held at Zepp KL on 8-June 2023.
AMG EQE 53 4Matic+
"At this point in time it's certainly not our intention to bring in two variants, but if the need arises and our customer demands, we will certainly look into it, but we're quite confident that the 53 meets the customers needs," explained Sardien.
That said, it's good news for those who are seeking the ultimate in AMG EQE experience: in 53 4Matic+ guise as we get here, it's the full-fat, most powerful variant of the model – with 658 PS/1000 Nm, it's worthy bragging rights over the AMG EQE 43 4Matic's 476 PS/858 Nm.
Though virtually indistinguishable outside, the differences are more than just skin deep
That is in addition with a host of other performance-oriented systems, and features that the AMG EQE 53 4Matic+ gains over its lower-rung stablemate.
Will there be CKD variants?
The AMG EQS and EQE
Alongside the AMG EQE, the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic+ also made its Malaysian debut. Both of these cars are currently fully-imported (CBU) from Germany, though it remains to be seen if locally-assembled (CKD) versions of this car will appear.
"We will look, it always depends on what the future is coming, and the demands [of the customers]. We're always looking as which models make sense to locally assemble – as you know we already have the EQS assembled here, and I think this is a very strong commitment to Malaysia – and we will see how it goes on with these two models," clarified Bettina Plangger, who serves as the Vice President of Sales & Marketing, MBM.
The AMG EQS 53 4Matic+
As it stands, MBM CKDs 8 models here: A-Class sedan, C-Class, E-Class, GLA, GLC Coupe, GLE, S-Class, and the sole BEV, the EQS. Between them, there's also a few 'pure AMG' variants that are also made in Pekan – the Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic, and the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 4Matic.
With humble beginnings collecting diecast models and spending hours virtually tuning dream cars on the computer, his love of cars has delightfully transformed into a career. Sanjay enjoys how the same passion for cars transcends boundaries and brings people together.
