Just weeks after unboxing its C-Class Mk5 in sedan and station wagon form, Mercedes-Benz began road testing of the Cabriolet hood variant.
The generation W206 C-Class will only be the second iteration in model history to be offered as a convertible, following the introduction of the current model in 2016.
It will likely launch alongside a two-door fixed-roof coupe model, as Mercedes renews its attack on the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series, both of which are available in three body styles.
This latest observation confirms that Mercedes still sees a market for its two-door C-Class models. Earlier this year, COO Markus Schäfer told Autocar the company will start reducing the number of bodies and variants of each model in its lineup, as it focuses on expanding the lineup. EQ of electric cars.
“We reached a portfolio of almost 50 vehicles last year, and there is more to come on the electric side with our EQ lineup,” he said. “We have certain limits in terms of what we can do in research and development.
“A part of [our models] has become quite narrow [in terms of the market], so we really want to focus on a more focused, consumer-focused portfolio. We are therefore making significant changes in our range, our portfolio and the shape of our vehicles.
“We have a very high density on the coupe and convertible side with the C-Class, E-Class and SLC. It’s a broad supply, and the market is heading in a different direction. This is why we are evolving: we will continue with coupes and convertibles in the future, but in a different shape and form. “
Given that this is the first sighting of the new C-Class convertible, and the launch of its predecessor came two years after that of the standard C-Class, a market launch in 2023 is likely.
We expect the powertrains to largely mirror those available in the sedan and station wagon, with a choice of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines, all with mild hybrid functionality.
The AMG C63 performance model will also be offered again as a coupe and convertible, although it will mark a turning point in giving up the power of the V8 in favor of a four-cylinder. plug-in hybrid powertrain developing around 500 hp.
READ MORE
Mercedes to reduce coupe and convertible lineup due to expansion of electric vehicles
The new 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class arrives with a focus on luxury
Next Mercedes-AMG C63 to swap V8 for four-pot hybrid
More about this article: Read More
Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-14 14:52:57
