Mercedes-AMG performance is now being offered at
more affordable prices, as Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched
locally-assembled (CKD) versions of the C 43 Sedan as well as the GLC 43 SUV.
Both models were first introduced in fully-imported (CBU) form in May last
year.
We’ll
start with the C 43 Sedan, which in CKD guise, is priced at RM 408,888
on-the-road without insurance – it is RM 91,000 less than the CBU version. As
for the GLC 43, the high-performance SUV was priced at RM 538,888 as a CBU unit,
but is now just RM 468,888, or RM 70,000 less, as a CKD model. Prices are
inclusive of a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
In terms of specifications, both cars are identical
to the CBU models. Both are powered by the same M276 DELA 30 3.0 litre
twin-turbo V6 with 362 hp and 520 Nm of torque. Power is directed to
the wheels via a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission as well as the
automaker’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The latter is a rear-biased system
that distributes torque according to a 31:69 front-to-rear split.
The C 43 Sedan will sprint from
zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, while the GLC 43 takes 4.9 seconds to do the
same. Both cars top out at an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.
On the handling side of things, the C 43 retains the
CBU’s AMG Ride Control adaptive damper, with Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus
settings. These correspond with the AMG Dynamic Select system, which itself has
Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual drive modes that also adjusts
engine, transmission and steering response.
As for the GLC 43, it continues with an AMG sports
suspension based on the Air Body Control system. This is backed by ADS Plus
adaptive damping, which offers Comfort, Sport and Sport plus damping modes. The
AMG Dynamic Select system is also present here.
The exterior kit list appears to be unchanged
despite the lower prices, as both cars still come with an AMG Line styling
package, Night Package and LED Intelligent Light headlamps. Model-specific
items on the C 43 Sedan include 19-inch AMG two-tone five-twin-spoke alloy
wheels and a front spoiler lip.
The GLC 43 meanwhile, gets 21-inch AMG two-tone
five-twin-spoke wheels instead, along with black roof rails, exterior chrome package
and aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs on the sides.
As for the interior, black Artico man-made
leather/Dinamice microfibre upholstery can be found in both vehicles along with
piano black and aluminium trim, designo red seat belts, powered front seats
with memory function, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting and AMG floor mats.
Other items include a Thermotronic dual-zone climate
control system, 360-degree camera, Parking Pilot, COMAND Online, an 8.4-inch
infotainment display, 13-speaker Burmester sound system, Keyless Go with push
start, Pre-Safe (includes autonomous emergency braking), seven airbags and a
flat-bottomed sports steering wheel.
Buyers can opt in to the
Performance Agility Care package, where they will enjoy the benefits of Agility
Financing and scheduled vehicle maintenance. As an example, the C 43 Sedan can
be had with a monthly installment of RM 4,088 over three years, inclusive of all
service charges.