KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has unveiled the latest all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W206) line-up available in two variants of C 200 Avantgarde Line, and the C 300 AMG Line
Imported mostly from Germany with some units from South Africa, the C 200 and C 300 come with on-the-road without insurance prices of RM288,334 and RM330,681 respectively.
MBM is expected to introduce the locally-assembled variants in the second half of the year.
Compared with the previous C-Class (W205), the new generation model has a longer wheelbase, as well as being slightly longer and wider but with a tad lower height.
The sporty bonnet with power domes hints at a strong forward motion, while the windscreen and passenger cell have been moved towards the rear for a classic proportions known in the industry as "cab-backward design".
Both variants feature a large central star at the grille with differing grille details.
The headlights are the LED High Performance type with Adaptive High Beam Assist while taillights have a triangular look in a two-piece design.
Inside, there is Artico upholstery and ambient lighting, while the dashboard is angled six degrees towards the driver and features a high-resolution 12.3-inch free-standing driver display and a 11.9-inch central touchscreen display.
The infotainment system is the latest second generation of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and supports hard-disc navigation, Communications module (LTE) for the use of Mercedes me connect services, Augmented Video, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and fingerprint scanner among others.
The two screens can be individualised with three display styles (Discreet, Sporty, and Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).
Meanwhile, the voice assistant "Hey Mercedes" becomes more interactive and has learning capabilities by activating online services in the Mercedes me App.
The C 200 comes with lowered comfort suspension, comfort seats and 18-inch 5-spoke wheels.
The C 300 is equipped with sport seats, panoramic sunroof and 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels.
The C 200 gets a 9G-Tronic transmission and a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 204hp and 300Nm of torque aided by a second-generation integrated starter-generator (ISG) with an additional output of up to 15kW and 200Nm of torque.
As a result, the C 200 does the 0-100kph sprint in 7.3 seconds to a top speed of 246kph.
The C 300 also gets a 9G-Tronic transmission, the ISG but a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 258hp and 400Nm of torque.
The top variant can complete the century sprint quicker at 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 250kph.
At the launch, MBM president and CEO Sagree Sardien said the C-Class has been the company's best-selling model to-date.
“Since its introduction as the 190, over 10.5 million C-Class have been delivered globally.
“Likewise in Malaysia, our customers love this vehicle as we continue to define the standards of comfort and innovation in the premium midsize sedan segment.
“With the new C-Class, our designers have been tasked to develop a car that combines human-centered innovations with sporty and modern design.
“Today, we are convinced that we have succeeded in delivering a car where design meets luxury and technology. ,” she said.
Sardien also said MBM is expected to launch its electric vehicle (EV) offering in Malaysia soon.
She said the successful introduction of EVs requires a holistic approach that not only involves the effort of the manufacturers and their dealers but also that of stakeholders involved in providing charging stations.
Meanwhile, MBM vice-president (sales & marketing passenger cars) Michael Jopp said the new C-Class redefines its segment in several respects at once such as comfortable spaciousness in the rear, the interior ambience and the high-quality workmanship.
Interested customers can visit Mercedes-Benz Universe, an immersive experience to test drive and view the latest Mercedes-Benz models next to Plaza Arkadia, Desa ParkCity, Kuala Lumpur from 10am to 5pm, Feb 25-27.
