Mercedes to build wide range on new platform

The new front and all-wheel-drive architecture employed on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is set to underpin a wide range of future cars.

As well as the recently-launched B-Class, the platform will also be used for the CLA Coupe recently shown as a concept, along with two other models, one a compact SUV.

Speaking to Headline Auto at the launch of the A-Class, Daimler chief Dieter Zetsche says that the range of Mercedes products in the premium compact segment will increase from the previous two to five models.

“These five newcomers will be a major driving force in our Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy,” Zetsche adds.

“The new generation will make a major contribution to our objective of making Mercedes-Benz the number one in the worldwide premium segment by the end of the decade at the latest.

“This attack is being launched at the right time because there is increasing demand in the premium compact segment – over the next 10 years, the market for these are will increase from the current 6.57m to around 10.6m units globally.”

Zetsche expects the A-Class to achieve a capture rate of more than 50 per cent, and adds that a higher performance version of the car will be available in the first quarter of next year.

The A45 AMG is promised to have the highest power output in the premium compact segment yet the lowest fuel consumption against its high performance rivals.

Words by: Headline Auto