 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-class Mercedes-Benz's strategy to switch to a more conventional platform already has paid off. The A-class and the B-class have been spectacularly successful outside the U.S. and Mercedes has found it necessary to use contract manufacturer Valmet to meet the demand. But those two models are just the beginning. A four-door sedan called CLA and a crossover vehicle—likely to be named GLA—are confirmed, and Mercedes promises that several further models likely will be added to Benz's compact architecture. Officially, only a fifth model is confirmed, but off the record, we hear that number is "a minimum." One of the most interesting possibilities is a rugged-looking off-roader that evokes the venerable Geländewagen. Car reports on an internal project that would complement the softer crossover model that Benz already has confirmed. If this baby G-wagen is green-lit, it would be offered with Mercedes' OM651 1.8- and 2.1-liter diesel engines, as well as the 1.6- and 2.0-liter M270 gasoline engines. All-wheel drive is essential to lend this mini SUV credibility, but an entry-level front-wheel-drive version is possible as well.
Other variations of Benz's compact platform include a CLA station wagon and an A-class convertible; we are quite confident that both will be added to the Mercedes lineup. If a baby G is confirmed, we'd welcome it; but it needs to be done in a credible manner. Mercedes-Benz already has tried twice to evoke the Geländewagen with the GL-class and the GLK. So far, the real one has survived both in-house assaults. Read full story »  from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com | |||
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