Mercedes-Benz plans new entry-level coupe

Mercedes-Benz is prepping up an all-new two-door entry-level coupe that will be launched somewhere around 2019, claims a UK-based publication. The new coupe will most likely arrive as a replacement for the on-going three-door A-Class hatchback and draws its exterior design from the recently introduced Mercedes-AMG GT supercar, including a practical lift-back.

This all-new coupe will be based on the brand’s second-generation MFA platform, which will further underpin a new range of compact cars from their stable. This new front-wheel drive platform is being developed by Mercedes-Benz in collaboration with the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and been described as more flexible than current MFA structure. It has been designed to allow greater variation in wheelbase and track widths as well as provide wider scope for the storage of batteries and gas tanks in possible hybrid and fuel cell derivatives of the standard models.

Powering the new coupe will most likely be a range of overhauled four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, being developed with the same Renault-Nissan Alliance. While a range-topping turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder AMG version producing up to 400bhp and featuring standard four-wheel drive will also be making its way.

Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, is said to be among the primary supporters for this new range of compact cars including the coupe, in a bid to overtake primary rivals- Audi and BMW in global luxury car sales by the end of this decade.

Source: Autocar UK