What's the difference?
Mercedes-Benz has brought back the entry-grade GLC200 and it's now the most affordable way into the sleek, mid-size luxury SUV.
But ‘entry-level’ doesn’t always mean ‘everyday friendly,’ so we’ve been family-testing it to see if it delivers that signature Benz comfort, quality and class without the premium sting.
The question is, does it offer enough substance and style to take on its high-profile rivals, the Audi Q5 and BMW X3?
What’s 15 years between friends? Well, in this instance quite a lot because this is the all-new, pure-electric Renault Scenic E-Tech small-medium SUV.
The Renault Scenic we knew here until the late noughties was a petrol-powered, five-seat family car or an upright, seven-seat people mover.
But this is an altogether sleeker proposition, priced and specified to compete with other electric SUVs like the BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Elexio, Kia EV5, Skoda Elroq and Zeekr 7X.
So, could this fresh Euro contender have what it takes to steer you away from such an impressive set of pure-electric competitors?
We attended its local launch to find out.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC200 might be the base-grade, but it doesn’t look or feel like it. From the outside, it’s stylish and refined, and inside, it delivers that signature Benz luxury with premium features, impressive tech and a beautiful cabin.
While the engine isn’t wildly powerful, it’s more than capable for everyday driving and long stretches on the highway and the ride quality overall is smooth, quiet and composed. It loses points for being more expensive than its entry-grade rivals and for those steep ongoing servicing costs, which could be a sticking point for some buyers.
The Renault Scenic E-Tech is lining up against some heavy-hitting competitors, but Renault Australia admits it has one top of mind - the Kia EV5. The Kia’s a quality package and if you’re in the market for a mid-size electric SUV, you’ll no doubt have it on your shopping list. And you should have a look at this slightly smaller car, as well. It has the refinement, practicality and safety to stand up confidently in a rapidly expanding segment.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.