Mercedes to make Renault-based entry-level X-Class?

MercXclass_Theo_1

Seems like everyone is after a slice of MINI’s profitable pie. Not long after Kia signalled its intentions with its provo concept, German motor tabloid Autobild reports that Mercedes-Benz too is developing a new entry-level range to rival that of BMW’s British-branded fashion heroes, as rendered here by Theophilus Chin.

It will still wear a Mercedes-Benz badge though, and is likely to use a new X-Class moniker. Why X? Because X marks the spot, of course! The new range of vehicles is said to include a base hatchback and a crossover, much like MINI’s current range. A booted sedan may also be in the works, targeted at more traditional markets, i.e. hatchback-hating regions such as ours.

The next-generation Renault Clio platform will be used as a base, building further on the Daimler-Renault-Nissan technical partnership that has seen shared production plans in Eastern Europe under way and the use of Mercedes CGI engines on the new Infiniti Q50 compact executive saloon.

A-Klasse

Keeping costs down will be a main priority, hence the use of a shared, less than premium platform. The styling and tech on offer will justify its premium pricing and market positioning however, which can be assumed to be around the MINI range.

The initial plan is to have efficient 1 litre three cylinder engines as well as more powerful 1.5 litre four motors. Direct injection and turbocharging are on the cards too.

Expected price range will be below the €20,000 mark, over 10% less than the cheapest A-Class. Don’t hold your breath just yet though, as market production isn’t expected until 2018.

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Hafriz Shah

Preferring to drive cars rather than desks, Hafriz Shah ditched his suit and tie to join the ranks of Malaysia’s motoring hacks. A car’s technical brilliance is completely lost on him, appreciating character-making quirks more. When not writing this ego trip of a bio, he’s usually off driving about aimlessly, preferably in a car with the right combination of three foot pedals and six gears.

 

Comments

  • Sam Loo on Mar 18, 2013 at 12:47 pm

    Great job Theophilus for the rendering.
    Perhaps putting an L badge will be perfect!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 6
    • All4TorqueProDSG on Mar 18, 2013 at 4:24 pm

      Mercedes should not stoop so low to make this segment of vehicles. Look at BMW, their 1 series does not move at all. Mercedes must always be associated with luxury sedans. The Germans are becoming too greedy now and not thinking with their heads. These are all traits of the Nazi, greedy.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 5
  • Jimmy on Mar 18, 2013 at 1:32 pm

    Theo, this car is targeting the even younger, so it ought to be more cute sporty like mini. This one is ok for A-class. The rear especially, is too lame, ought to be more creative.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • 4G63T DSM on Mar 18, 2013 at 1:58 pm

    Did mercedes forget all about SMART?

    Does the ForFOUR not fit the description, at least a new one?

    Theo did a great job as usual, but it aint floating my boat…. looks too french….and one from the past generation.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • gangully on Mar 18, 2013 at 6:00 pm

    Looks like a Mazda 2 was used as the base :)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • X-class?the boys at Munich getting mad later :D

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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