Just not a plugin
Now that the prices of the plug-in-hybrid variants of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC are known, we know that the GLC 200 with a starting price of €72,577 (€1,227 less than the GLC 300e 4Matic) remains just at the entry level. But whether that standard is equally richly equipped? In Back to Basics we find out.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 4Matic, €72.577
If we dive into the configurator of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC, we first find out that integral drive is the norm. Where competitor BMW can (just) supply the X3 with rear-wheel drive, at Mercedes you are always dependent on a four-wheel drive. In the entry-level version, the GLC 200 4Matic, those four wheels are powered by a 204 hp four-cylinder petrol engine, which is supported by a 23 hp electric motor. The powertrain of this ‘mild hybrid’ is good for a 0 to 100 time of 7.8 seconds.
The GLC 300e 4Matic, which is only €1,227 more expensive, takes 1.1 seconds shorter than the standard sprint with its system power of 313 hp. The performance figures are higher, while the 300th 4Matic will also be considerably more economical in practice when plugged in sufficiently and therefore cheaper to use. But whether the 300th standard is also richer equipped? Because the difference between the entry-level prices of the two is mainly the result of the lower CO2 emissions of the plug-in, this could just be possible. After all, the pre-tax price of the 300e is higher than that of the 200. We figure it out by looking at the standard equipment of the latter – that’s the entry-level after all – and a brief comparison.
More colorful for free
For more than 72 grand, Mercedes hands you the keys to a GLC in Business Line trim with an Avantgarde appearance. This includes five-spoke wheels with a diameter of 18 inches and window frames, roof rails and ‘underbody protection plates’ in the front and rear bumpers in brushed aluminum. The headlights are always equipped with LED lighting with high beam assistance, the standard rear lights also house LEDs.
For the color of the carriage you can choose from no less than nine (metallic) shades at no extra cost, including the beautiful blue of the images above this story. If you leave at least €399 extra, the color spectrum will be even wider. As for the wheels, you can choose from two standard models (both 18 inches). If you want larger wheels ex works, then you are immediately dependent on the more expensive Luxury Line (starting price €75,947). Furthermore, a panoramic sliding roof (€1,718) and a towbar (€1,180) are among the options for the outside. An electric tailgate does not cost a cent extra and is standard on all models.
Piano lacquer
The interior of the entry-level GLC features Mercedes black cloth upholstery and panels with piano lacquer finish. The two large screens – one for the driver’s nose and one for the infotainment – are standard. The same goes for a multifunction steering wheel with a leather-covered wheel. If you are allergic to fingerprints, you can choose from five other dashboard finishes than piano lacquer for at least €411. If you want a heated steering wheel, you are dependent on the winter package of €436.
The MBUX system is standard.
If you feel warm rather than cold, there is good news: automatic air conditioning is standard. You have to pay extra for seat ventilation, but not for seat heating. The MBUX infotainment system offers DAB radio, navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and many other options – all at no extra cost. Also include cruise control, a reversing camera, mood lighting, wireless charging of your phone and a variety of safety systems as standard. However, we also miss a lot. For example, the cruise control is not adaptive and most driving assistance systems are in an expensive option package.
Difference with 300e
This means that most of the standard equipment of the GLC 200 4Matic has come to light. But is there also a difference with that of the 300th? Not really. The plug-in produces ‘acoustic environmental protection’ below 30 km/h in electric mode to be better noticed by cyclists and pedestrians. The 300e also gets the wider wheel arches at the rear that are actually intended for AMG wheels. In any case, the hybrid is a bit higher on its legs than the petrol versions and it has level control at the rear to absorb the extra weight of the battery. All differences between the 200 and the 300e can therefore be attributed to the drivetrain of the second. In terms of luxury or appearance, there is no difference – except for the badge and tailgate.
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– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl