- The W206 C-Class is here to battle the BMW 320i
- The CKD 320i is almost RM 40k cheaper than the CBU C200
- Which is your pick?
With the introduction of the all-new 2022 W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the compact executive battle heats up as the G20 BMW 3 Series has to defend its title.
For the purpose of this comparo, we will pit both entry-level variants against each other. On the three-pointed star side is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C200, while on the Bavarian camp is the 2022 BMW 320i.
Price – The BMW 320i has a clear price advantage
First and foremost is the price advantage of the 2022 BMW 320i. Owing to its local assembly (CKD) nature, the BMW 320i is almost RM 40k cheaper than the Mercedes-Benz C200, coming in at RM 249,389 (with sales and service tax exemption and extended warranty and service package). The C200 is priced from RM 288,334.
As the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C200 is imported (CBU, Germany / South Africa), it is priced a tad bit higher than the BMW. That said, don’t hold your breath for a cheaper CKD version, as the net price reduction could be negligible at best.
Currently, CBU cars are subjected to only 5 percent sales tax. CKD cars will resume paying the full 10 percent sales tax starting 1-July 2022, negating some of the gains in price reduction.
Exterior – Elegant C-Class or sporty 3 Series?
Let’s face it, even in its non-M Sport trim, the BMW 320i is still the sportier compact executive sedan here. Its sharp headlights definitely lend a hand towards it looking more aggressive.
That’s not to say that the C200 is any less sporty, as the W206-generation model gets an evolutionary design that further builds upon the already-good looking W205’s design. With the Avantgarde package in place, the C200 makes do without the intricate diamond-patterned front grille, and gets a simpler grille with vertical inserts instead.
The 2022 BMW 320i offers adaptive LED headlights, which are a step-up compared to the Mercedes-Benz C200’s LED High Performance headlights, the latter are essentially regular LED headlights.
Sorry, no Multibeam LED headlights here
Both models offer 18-inch wheels and LED tail lights as standard fitment.
Interior – Pretty much a draw between the two
Between the two compact executive sedans here, the Benz offers a much nicer cabin to be in, owing to the two massive digital displays. The first is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while the other is a 11.9-inch portrait-style infotainment display.
Despite being an entry-level C-Class, the W206 C200 still offers the full MBUX infotainment experience, as well as the ability to scan fingerprints for a more personalized touch.
As impressive as that is, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has to axe some features to keep the W206 C-Class’ prices competitive. Thus, it makes do without tri-zone automatic climate control and rear USB charging ports – both of which are offered on the cheaper BMW 320i.
Does that necessarily mean that the 320i is worse off? Not necessarily so, as the Beemer offers a more driver-focused cockpit and physical buttons. Yes, whereas the C200 has resorted to move frequently-used controls like air-conditioning into the touchscreen infotainment system, the 320i still has physical buttons. Hurrah indeed.
Performance – C200 may offer a smaller 1.5-litre engine, but it has more power
Powering the Mercedes-Benz C200 is a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine paired to a 48V integrated starter generator (ISG), turning it into a mild-hybrid (MHEV). The Mercedes-Benz C200 is good for 204 PS and 300 Nm.
The BMW 320i is a bit more traditional in the powertrain department, offering a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that does 184 PS and 300 Nm.
Safety – No ACC for both models, but there's AEB and LKA
Regular/Passive cruise control on the C200
The active safety kit on both the Mercedes-Benz C200 and BMW 320i are on par with each other, offering Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Both models also offer Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).
As for airbag count, the 320i offers 6 airbags, while the C200 offers 7 airbags (with the inclusion of a driver knee airbag).
Conclusion – Three-pointed star or Beemer?
It’s definitely an interesting battle between these two German compact executive sedans. Despite aiming at the same crowd of buyers, both the C200 and 320i take different approaches.
For those who wants a sportier drive, the BMW 320i should be shortlisted, while the C200 caters to those wanting a slightly more upmarket ride.
In fact, for some buyers, the 2022 BMW 320i wins by default, seeing that it offers some features that are missing on the C200, whilst being almost RM 40k cheaper.
If you’re opting for the BMW, remember to include the extended warranty and service package. Without the extended warranty and service package, the standard warranty is only 2 years with unlimited mileage.
No such issue with Mercedes-Benz models – all models are backed by a 4-year/unlimited mileage warranty.
Watch this space for our full review of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Keyword: 2022 W206 Mercedes-Benz C200 vs G20 BMW 320i: Which compact executive to pick?