Mercedes-Benz roll-out the big boys: Mercedes GLC

Billed as the premium mid-sized SUV, the GLC 250’s sheet metal has been spiffed up with trinkets from AMG catalogue including 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys and sports tuned suspension which endows the car with a creamy mix of agility and comfort. And its not all about looks as well, because the GLC 250 also sports Cd value of 0.31 and total aerodynamic drag of 0.794, that sets a clear benchmark in this segment.

Power comes from a 1991cc inline-four mill outputting 211bhp at 5500rpm and 350Nm from 1200rpm to 4000rpm. The unit is tacked to a 9-Speed (yes… 9) 9G-Tronic auto powering all four wheels. Safety kit includes Mercedes’ LED Intelligent Light system and Collision Prevention Assist Plus in addition to the usual repertoire of airbags and ABS systems.

The GLC offers up the DYNAMIC SELECT handling control system with five driving programs as standard. In addition to the ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL settings which are familiar from other models, the new all-rounder can also be equipped with the Off-Road Engineering package. This comprises up to five programs. "Slippery" and four off-road driving programs are totally new here.

The effective use of space and nifty packaging too, plays a key role in the ability of the GLC, the rear bench includes 40/20/40 split folding seats with a crafty ‘cargo position’ that locks the rear backrests at a steeper level and a flat-loading rear cargo bed. This grows the load capacity behind the rear bench from 80 to 110-litres to a total of 580-litres. The maximum compartmental are a measures 1320mm in length and 1100mm in width.

Other niceties include the superb Burmester 13-speaker surround sound system, Keyless-Go and Hands Free Access, which allows the rear boot to be opened by swiping one’s feet under the rear bumper. ARVIND KUMAR

The fine print for the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is as follows:

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 (X253)

Engine: 1991cc, in-line 4, 4 valves per cylinder, turbocharged and direct-injected 211bhp @5500rpm, 350Nm @ 1200rpm – 4000rpm

Transmission: 9G-Tronic , nine-speed auto, electronically controlled all-wheel drive

Performance 0-100kph 7.3s, 250kph Max Speed 6.5-7.1l/100km, 152-166g/km CO2

Price: RM328,888 OTR W/O Ins (GST Incl.)