Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz GLC Set to Debut in Malaysia Soon

The second-gen Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV is poised to make its local debut soon, with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) already hyping up the local crowd by posting a teaser of the new SUV model. Codenamed X254, this new GLC will replace the ongoing X253 model that was originally launched back in 2016.

This next-gen GLC previously made its global debut in late 2022, coming in a few electrified powertrain flavours globally, including a mild hybrid (MHEV) option, as well as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. Both powertrains are primed with the same 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbocharged petrol mill with varied outputs, depending on the trim level.

Speaking of trim level, the petrol-powered GLC comes standard in the baseline GLC200 4Matic variant, as well as the up-specced GLC300 4Matic spec. For the mild hybrid versions, the 2.0-litre mill works in tandem with the 48-Volt mild hybrid system with integrated starter-generator (ISG), delivering up to 204 HP and 320 NM for the GLC200 model, and 258 HP and 400 NM for the range-topping GLC300 variant.

For the PHEV powertrain, the GLC will be primed with a 31.2-kWh battery pack that grants it up to 117 KM of all-EV range. The baseline model for the PHEV version starts with the GLC300e 4Matic, which pairs the same 2.0-litre mill with a single electric motor setup rated at 136 HP and 440 NM. In total, the GLC300e 4Matic delivers a total system output of 313 HP and 550 NM.

Meanwhile, the top-specced GLC400e 4Matic shares the up-tuned 2.0-litre engine with the GLC300 4Matic MHEV, that works in tandem with the same single motor setup to deliver a total system output of 381 HP and 650 NM – making it the most powerful non-AMG GLC model so far. And just like the GLC300e, this range-topping model also boasts a maximum EV range of 117 KM.

Dimensionally, the second-gen GLC is a tad bit bulkier than the model it replaces, now measuring 4,716 MM long, albeit the width remains the same. This, in turn, grants the new GLC with a bigger cargo space of 620-litres – 70-litre bigger than the old model. Aside from that, the GLC also sports mild exterior updates, including brand-new headlights and taillights design, front grille and bodykit, and many more.

According to MBM’s official Instagram post, this ‘new model’ is set to be launched in early April 2023, with test-drive slots open for public on Apr 8 and 9, taking place at Plaza Arkadia in Desa Parkcity, Kuala Lumpur. Only by then we’ll get to know the exact specs offered for the Malaysian-bound GLC, as well as the prices.

For reference, the locally-assembled (CKD) X253-gen GLC starts at RM 313,888 for the GLC200 AMG Line model, while the range-topping GLC300 AMG Line FL version is priced higher at RM 356,888.