Mercedes-Benz GLC250 Review
2017-2023
The Mercedes-Benz GLC250 4MATIC (X253 series) is a leading executive compact SUV imported from Japan into Kenya. Powered by a 1,991 cc turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it sits strictly below 2,500 cc to qualify for Kenya's standard 25% excise tax bracket while offering 9G-TRONIC shifting and 180 mm ground clearance.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Sub-2,500 cc KRA tax advantage: 2.0L engine qualifies for 25% excise tax bracket, saving huge customs duties.
- Refined 9G-TRONIC transmission: 9 gear ratios deliver smooth acceleration and quiet 1,400 rpm highway cruising.
- Prestige cabin craftsmanship: Artico leather upholstery, Burmester surround audio, and MBUX infotainment.
What’s not so good
- Firmer ride on 19/20-inch AMG rims: AMG Line low-profile tires transmit road firmness over unpaved estate roads.
- Specialized Mercedes maintenance: Demands MB 229.5 spec synthetic oil and specialized Star Diagnostic scanners.
Most popular: GLC250 4MATIC AMG Line
5 doorsPetrolAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Mercedes-Benz GLC250 4MATIC (X253 Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Executive Compact SUV
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Petrol (Turbocharged Direct Injection)
- Engine sizes
- 1,991 cc
- Transmission
- 9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4MATIC Permanent All-Wheel Drive
- Ground clearance
- 180 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Trims & variants
GLC250 4MATIC / GLC250 4MATIC AMG Line
- Setup
1,991 cc 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 211 hp and 350 Nm torque, 9G-TRONIC automatic, 4MATIC AWD, achieving 13.5 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The most popular petrol luxury crossover import on Nairobi's Kiambu Road corridor.
- Local consideration
Excellent long-distance highway stability on Nairobi-Mombasa corridor.
Fuel consumption
Figures for the 2.0L Turbo Petrol 4MATIC (1,991 cc M274). Tank: 66 L (about 891 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 2,063 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,419 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 16,812
- Full tank (66 L)
- KES 14,979
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Package tiers
GLC250 package tiers progress from elegant executive grades to sporty AMG Line trims.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Base 4MATIC | Executive tier | 18-inch alloys, Artico leather upholstery, LED High Performance headlights, and Agility Control suspension. |
| AMG Line | Sport flagship | 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke alloys, AMG body styling, diamond grille, flat-bottom steering, and sports braking system. |
| Edition 1 | Bespoke luxury | 20-inch AMG dark wheels, Designo two-tone Nappa leather, Burmester 13-speaker audio, and panoramic glass sunroof. |
About the Mercedes-Benz GLC250
Kenya strictly enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive regulations. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 GLC models sit inside the direct import window, while 2018 units face month-by-month age deadlines.
A significant financial benefit of the GLC250 is its 2.0L M274 engine size (1,991 cc). By remaining under 2,500 cc, it avoids the higher 35% KRA excise duty tier applied to 3.0L luxury vehicles, saving buyers over KSh 600,000 in import taxes.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
