Cars
Road Test: Mercedes Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Premium+ (2020)

The new Mercedes Benz GLC 300 is a crossover utility vehicle that has a lot going on for it. The GLC has always been one of the most popular Mercedes vehicles out there on the market. And this year, the GLC gets a subtle refresh in terms of exterior styling updates, interior improvements, technology upgrades, and a boost in horsepower.
While there are a couple of variants the GLC 300 comes in, for this review, we received the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Premium+. This variant is an all-wheel drive and comes packed with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the hood.
The engine offers 370 nm of torque and 258 horsepower with an acceleration of 100 kmph achieved in 6.2 seconds. You also get 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and run-flat tires as part of the package. The GLC 300 is a handsome vehicle – it flaunts a new grille, revised front, and rear bumpers and lighting, updated wheel designs, and new paint colours.
On the front, you get the gigantic Mercedes Benz star insignia, which is still as prominent and sparkly as ever before. And once you step inside the cabin of the GLC 300, you will feel and experience the premium components put together to build this vehicle. Our test vehicle came with black leather interiors and top-notch materials.
The steering wheel included touch-sensing controls for the driver information center and infotainment system. The wood trim on the dashboard also felt pretty nice. And at night, when you switch on the headlights, the cabin gets its very own 64-colour ambient lighting that adjusts to fit your mood.
The legroom is quite ample on the front and you get 14-way power-adjustable front seats. On the rear though, it feels a bit cramped up – two passengers can sit quite comfortably. But three passengers at the rear may not find any wiggle room. The AC controls just below the infotainment system are made up of piano key-style buttons.
The GLC 300 comes with a dual-zone automatic climate system that lets you control the temperature on the front and at the back individually. In terms of entertainment, you get the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system on the front. This includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and Burmester audio components that offer an awesome listening experience.
Apart from other features such as navigation, music, and so on, you also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. In terms of cargo space, you get plenty with the GLC 300. Opening up the hatch reveals 19.4 cu.-ft. of space, while folding the rear seats gives you 56.5 cu.-ft. There are plenty of security features on the GLC 300.
You get a blind-spot warning system and automatic emergency braking, along with an exit warning system, active cruise control, active steering assistance, and lots more. When it comes to the driving experience, you will be happy to note that everything went well with the GLC 300. You also get DYNAMIC SELECT which lets you choose between driving modes, including the sport mode.
Even at high speeds, the car handles quite well and its suspension perfectly manages weight around corners by soaking up bumps on city roads. The car offers precise steering and robust brakes – so you can clear curvy corners with ease. Though the GLC 300 is a compact SUV, you get a host of features with it.
For a price starting at AED 281,900, the Mercedes Benz GLC 300 offers a refreshed exterior design, top-notch interiors, a powerful engine that offers performance, and an overall quality ride.
Price: AED 281,900 onwards

Apps
EVLAB Intros UAE’s First Electric Vehicle Marketplace App

EVLAB, the multi-brand electric vehicle start-up, has made adopting a sustainable lifestyle easier for drivers in the UAE with the launch of the EVLAB App, an all-in-one mobility app to rent, lease and host their EVs in the UAE with phase 2 to include buy and sell electric vehicles (EVs) available in the Middle East. EVLAB’s new one-stop marketplace app addresses a growing desire among consumers in the Middle East to make a switch to sustainable mobility solutions. Electric vehicle sales have seen rapid growth in the region, with an increase of 72 per cent during 2020 alone.
In line with the goals of COP28, EVLAB is committed to reducing CO2 emissions and fostering sustainable mobility in the Middle East, striving to play a pivotal role in catalyzing positive transformation. The new platform supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative, which is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions and make the Emirates the first nation in the MENA region to do so. The app also complements other sustainability initiatives in the country, including the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030, which has resulted in the installation of more than 1,000 public charging stations across the UAE.
The EVLAB App allows eco-conscious drivers to browse a unique collection of electric vehicle brands available in the Middle East and take advantage of EVLAB’s expertise to understand the benefits of electric vehicles and make a seamless transition to sustainable transportation. Drivers can consider short-term rentals, leasing or hosting their electric vehicles through a seamless and hassle-free user journey.
The booking process is straightforward with easy navigation using the rent, lease, host and chat tabs on the homepage. Users can filter options based on brand preferences and features, such as performance and range, to save time and effort in finding an electric vehicle that suits their requirements and budget. All the listed cars and their hosts are vetted to guarantee authenticity and quality of service by the owners. In phase 2, electric vehicle owners can also conveniently sell their vehicles on the platform with guidance from EVLAB’s experts at every step of the way.
“With the accelerated pace of climate change, the adoption and transition to e-mobility is inevitable. At EVLAB, our ongoing goal is to consistently reduce emissions, and we are proud to say that we have successfully saved a cumulative total of 76,174 kilograms of CO2 to date and will further reduce with the EVLAB app. The all-in-one EVLAB App complements our EVLAB website with a broader range of functionality and services to make the eco-mobility journey easier for drivers in the region. The app allows users to rent, lease and host their electric vehicles seamlessly in a safe and trusted marketplace. As battery technology is rapidly evolving, the range of electric vehicles today will become obsolete in two to three years, so this model of renting and leasing becomes more attractive than buying. Consumers will have the additional ease of choosing their preferred electric vehicle based on their budget and lifestyle by selecting from a variety of options, including performance, acceleration, range, and charging times,” said Kevin Chalhoub, CEO and Founder of EVLAB.
Cars
Hyundai Launches the All-Electric IONIQ Range

Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa Headquarters unveiled its sustainability and electric mobility plans at a media event held at the SEE Institute in the Sustainable City, Dubai. The event featured the debut of Hyundai’s electric car range under the IONIQ sub-brand, showcasing the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 models.
Bryan Park, Head of Hyundai Motor Company Middle East and Africa Headquarters, emphasized Hyundai’s commitment to humanity’s progress through pioneering electric technologies. He stated, “Today, we are proud to launch our sustainable strategy and our confident direction towards electric mobility, aligning with the ambitious plans of Middle East countries for emissions-free transportation.”
Suliman AlZaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, expressed pride in Hyundai UAE’s role in the electric revolution, highlighting the company’s dedication to providing environmentally friendly, innovative, and efficient transportation.
The event included a hands-on experience for attendees, enabling them to drive the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 fully electric cars. The IONIQ 5, inspired by Hyundai’s ’45’ EV concept, boasts a unique exterior design, spacious interior, and sustainable features. Its 531-litre trunk space and eco-friendly materials, including recycled PET bottles, emphasize Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability.
The IONIQ 6 Electrified Streamliner, a new addition to the IONIQ lineup, was also introduced. With an estimated electric range of over 610 km, this model showcases Hyundai’s advanced technologies, personalized interior space, and fast charging capabilities.
IONIQ 6’s interior, leveraging the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), prioritizes comfort with Dual Color Ambient Lighting, Relaxation Comfort Seats, and a customizable driving experience through the EV Performance Tune-up system. The vehicle supports both 400-V and 800-V charging infrastructures, allowing for an 18-minute charge from 10% to 80% with a 350-kW charger.
Notably, IONIQ 6 is the first Hyundai model to feature Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates, allowing drivers to enhance controllers for electric devices, autonomous driving, and more, ensuring a safer and more convenient driving experience. The advanced driver assistance systems, including Highway Driving Assist 2 and Smart Cruise Control, prioritize safety on the road.
Cars
Inter Emirates Motors Intros Four Electric Vehicles (EVs) From MG Motor

Inter Emirates Motors has announced the introduction of four innovative electric vehicles (EVs) from MG Motor, marking a significant stride in bolstering sustainable mobility across the United Arab Emirates. The introduction of MG4, MG Marvel R, The New MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to the UAE market brings forth a suite of vehicles that seamlessly blend performance, efficiency, and eco-friendly technology, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and driving needs.
The recently launched MG4 is a compact electric hatchback that is set to redefine sustainable mobility in the United Arab Emirates. The MG4 Electric is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement on wheels, offering a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) design, ensuring optimal weight distribution and a nimble driving experience.
The MG4 is powered by an E-Motor that promises 180kW power and features 3-Level Energy Recovery, presenting a perfect amalgamation of performance and efficiency. With its sleek design, interactive ambient light with 64 colours, a 12-inch full virtual dashboard, and a 10-inch touchscreen, the MG4 is a testament to MG Motor’s commitment to providing technologically advanced vehicles without compromising on style or performance.
Mohamed Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Managing Director of Inter Emirates Motors, stated, “The introduction of the MG4 to the UAE market marks a significant milestone for both Inter Emirates Motors and MG Motor. This vehicle is not only a testament to the innovative spirit of MG Motor but also aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s vision for sustainable and technologically advanced mobility solutions. We are incredibly excited to offer our customers not just the MG4, but three more vehicles that perfectly blend performance, technology, and sustainability.”
The MG Marvel R Electric, a mid-sized SUV, is equipped with a large module cell pack solution, ensuring a longer range and employs hair-pin winding technology in its electric motors, guaranteeing an efficient and powerful driving experience. The MG ZS EV, a practical and well-equipped small electric family car, introduces a new long-range version, offering an impressive range at an affordable price, making electric driving accessible to a wider audience.
Lastly, the MG HS PHEV combines the best of both worlds with its plug-in hybrid technology, offering various interior colour options, ambient light, a driving mode selection with a Super Sport button, and sport synthetic leather seats, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic driving experience.
These models are pivotal in aligning with the UAE’s vision towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. With the UAE’s robust infrastructure for EVs and a growing emphasis on adopting green vehicles, these models from MG Motor represent not only a luxurious and technologically advanced driving option but also a step towards eco-friendly mobility.
Hisham ElSahn, General Manager of Inter Emirates Motors, added, “The addition of the MG Marvel R, MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to our portfolio underscores our dedication to providing diverse and sustainable mobility solutions. These models are equipped with cutting-edge technology and provide efficient, yet powerful performance, ensuring that our customers in the UAE experience the future of driving, today.”