The All New GLC SUV has an updated appearance, more comfortable interior, superior handling and segment-leading high-tech appointments.[Photo/China Daily]

"China has now become the biggest market worldwide for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars," said Hubertus Troska, member of the Board of Management Daimler AG, responsible for Greater China. "I am very positive about the future growth potential of Mercedes-Benz in China. And this wonderful car, the GLC, will be another strong contributor to this growth."

The locally produced All New GLC SUV officially launched at Auto Guangzhou with five models, including the GLC 200 4MATIC, GLC 260 4MATIC and GLC 300 4MATIC. With a new design, excellent handling and best-in-class safety and practicality, the GLC family is a stunner.

New Generation Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC is the world's most powerful high-performance compact model from the Mercedes-AMG.[Photo/China Daily]

"As the last masterpiece of our 'Year of the SUV', the China produced All New GLC SUV 'built for the hero in you' has redefined the highest standards for midsize luxury SUVs. So far, Mercedes-Benz SUV models have already achieved full coverage, ranging from compact SUVs to true off-roaders, making us the luxury brand with the most powerful SUV lineup," said Duan Jianjun, BMBS executive vice-president responsible for sales and marketing.

As Mercedes-Benz's second-generation midsize luxury SUV, the locally produced All New GLC SUV has an updated appearance, an even more comfortable interior, a superior and agile handling experience and segment-leading high-tech appointments.

It features the 9G-TRONIC as standard across the range, along with DYNAMIC SELECT, DISTRONIC PLUS, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, and other advanced appointments or intelligent drive systems to provide agile handling and enhance safety in any road conditions.

"Our powerful product offensive is reflected not only in this, but also in the official launch of two Mercedes-Benz plug-in hybrid models at the Auto Guangzhou, which will redefine the new energy vehicle segment," Duan added.

The new S 500 e L and locally produced All New C 350 e L plug-in hybrids offer new solutions for efficient green mobility and they embody the theme of Auto Guangzhou 2015 - "new technology, new life".

The S 500 e L features a modern hybrid drive with innovative technologies and luxury unique to the S-Class. The S 500 e L is equipped with both a V6 biturbo engine and an intelligent hybrid drive system that delivers power output of up to 325 kW and a maximum torque of 650 Nm, with 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in just 5.2 seconds. This performance comes without sacrificing efficiency, as the S 500 e L boasts combined fuel efficiency of 2.8 liters per 100 km, with a range of over 30 kilometers in pure electric mode, which achieves zero local emissions.

Joining the S 500 e L in Guangzhou is the All New C 350 e L plug-in hybrid, the first model ever in its segment that is produced in China. It comes equipped with a four-cylinder gasoline engine, delivering maximum power output of 205 kW (279 hp) and a peak torque of 600 Nm.

Also making their debuts in China were the all new smart forfour, featuring a four-door, four-seat design and comprehensively upgraded appointments, and the world's most powerful high-performance compact model from the Mercedes-AMG family, the new generation AMG A 45 4MATIC, which once again sets new standards in its segment.

"With an untiring spirit in pursuit of the best, Mercedes-Benz remains dedicated to bringing local customers quality products and services, as well as a superior customer experience," said Duan.

Local and personal

The focus amid the popular models, the All New GLC SUV, is a milestone in the decade-long joint venture partnership between Daimler and Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd. This partnership has resulted in a strong line of locally produced vehicles rolling off production lines at Beijing Benz Automotive Co, the two automaker's JV production facility in Beijing.