The Mercedes CLC is the smaller version of the Mercedes CLS coupé-sedan and is expected to debut in the few years. And as per the larger CLS, it seems the CLC will also get its own shooting brake version which will be similar to a sporty station wagon-coupé. This could be considered another example of how Mercedes is creating new niches in the car market to snap up customers looking for new and flexible options.

Dieter Zetsche himself has confirmed the CLC Shooting Brake project, announcing that they expect to have the car ready by 2014: two years after the CLS Shooting Brake and one year after the standard CLC is set to debut. The CLC Shooting Brake will use the new Mercedes MFA platform, with front-wheel drive, which will also form the basis of the new Mercedes B-Class and A-Class. A new compact Mercedes SUV will also be developed off this platform and which will go to compete with the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

The CLC Shooting Brake is expected to be quite similar in design to the Mercedes Shooting Brake Concept which appeared at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show. It will be probably be more compact but will have the same sporty, dynamic looks and plenty of practicality - which should be quite refreshing in this new wave of “new segments”.

The CLC engine range will have updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel powerplants with direct injection, turbocompressors and start&stop systems. Six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch transmissions are likely to appear, and the CLC will come with either front-wheel or 4Matic all-wheel drive. A CLC AMG will also appear, most likely with a new two-litre engine and about 300 hp.

....

0 comments