The "regular" Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift range has two variants in Malaysia – GLC 200 and GLC 300. The GLC 200 was quietly updated last year with the AMG Line package and some equipment as well as a price revision.

Aside from the obvious AMG Line package, the GLC 200 now comes with keyless entry and start, and more advanced Agility Control suspension.

Currently, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 goes for RM 299,539 while the GLC 300 is priced at RM 338,693. These prices are on-the-road without insurance and SST, valid until 31 December 2021.

With a price difference of around RM 39k, let’s take a brief walkthrough on what you get in the GLC 300 over the GLC 200.

Powertrain - Same engine, different outputs

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and GLC 300 use the M264 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The difference here is the output figure and driven wheels.

In the GLC 200, the engine makes 197 PS/320 Nm and all the power drives the rear wheels exclusively. Meanwhile, the engine in the GLC 300 churns out 258 PS/370 Nm and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system sends power to all four wheels.

Exterior - Wheels and headlamps make all the difference

Both variants are equipped with the AMG Line package, but the GLC 300 has Night Package that sees the exterior trims – such as the mirror caps, window surrounds, and front skid plate – finished in gloss black.

Wheels are 20-inch items for both variants. The GLC 200 gets the multi-spoke design while the GLC 300 features the five-twin-spoke pattern. Both feature the Agility Control suspension with selective damping system and both are on run-flat tyres.

The GLC 200 gets LED High Performance Headlamps while the GLC 300 features Multibeam LED headlamps, which is an adaptive system that is able to maximise illumination without blinding other road users.

Interior - Nearly identical

Inside, differences between the two variants are minimal as both are kitted with the AMG Line package that includes AMG steering wheel and floor mats. As mentioned earlier, a noteworthy addition in the GLC 200 is the inclusion of keyless entry and start feature, which was previously omitted.

Both feature a 10.25-inch infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and both have a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

In terms of interior features, the GLC 300 gains a panoramic sunroof, 3-zone Thermotronic climate control (GLC 200 gets 2-zone Thermatic climate control), and Burmester surround sound system.

Safety - ADAS as standard

On the safety front, both variants of the Mercedes-Benz GLC are equipped with 7 airbags, Active Brake Assist (AEB), Blind Sport Assist (BSM), Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, and Pre-Safe system. The GLC 300 gains Active Lane Keeping Assist (LKA).

Conclusion

Now that the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 has been brought closer to the GLC 300 in terms of features and equipment, there aren’t as many reminders to tell you that you’re in a cheaper variant.

Features like the keyless entry/start is practically a must-have in any modern car. And with the GLC 200 now equipped with it, it's a worth entry point to the Mercedes-Benz GLC range.

For those who prefer all the bells and whistles, the GLC 300 will be worth the extra RM 39k. As for those seeking an entry compact-executive SUV, the GLC 200 will do the job just fine.

Also read: Why pay for the whole cow when steak is cheaper? It’s the same with your Mercedes