Mercedes CLC Set for 2013 Launch with New Platform and Engines
Mercedes-Benz is preparing to introduce the CLC in 2013, offering front- and four-wheel drive options, turbocharged engines and an AMG variant targeting hot hatch rivals.
Mercedes-Benz will bring the CLC to market in 2013, introducing a new compact saloon to its range. The CLC, codenamed C117, will use the latest front- and four-wheel drive platform shared with the new A- and B-Class models, moving away from the previous generation’s more complex ‘sandwich’ floor architecture.
The CLC aims to fill a space in the premium saloon segment where Mercedes sees little direct competition from Audi or BMW. Its styling is expected to draw heavily from the larger CLS, with a focus on coupe-like lines and a more youthful appeal than the traditional C-Class saloon.
Engine range and AMG performance model
The CLC’s engine line-up covers both petrol and diesel, with all units turbocharged. Petrol buyers will have a choice of 1.6-litre engines producing either 121 bhp or 154 bhp. On the diesel side, Mercedes will offer a 1.8-litre in 108 bhp and 134 bhp outputs, plus a 2.1-litre engine delivering either 168 bhp or 201 bhp. All versions are set to come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard.
The range will be topped by an AMG variant. Mercedes’ Affalterbach-based performance division is planning a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine for the CLC AMG, expected to deliver 296 bhp and paired with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox. This puts the AMG CLC in direct competition with hot hatches such as the Volkswagen Golf R.
Platform and market positioning
Underpinning the CLC is the same modular platform as the new A-Class and B-Class, allowing for both front- and four-wheel drive configurations. This conventional chassis marks a departure from the outgoing CLC’s more unusual layout. The move aligns the CLC with the broader Mercedes compact range, promising improved packaging and driving dynamics.
With the CLC, Mercedes is targeting buyers seeking a compact saloon with premium credentials and a sportier image than the mainstream C-Class. The AMG version, in particular, is intended to attract drivers considering high-performance hatchbacks from rival brands.
Related developments in 2013 Mercedes range
The CLC’s launch comes as Mercedes expands its compact car line-up. The new B-Class, built on the same platform, was introduced to the Indian market in 2013, and the A-Class achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating the same year. The CLC is expected to share several components and safety technologies with these models.
- /2013-mercedes-benz-b-class-was-launched-in-india, Mercedes-Benz Launches 2013 B-Class in India at INR 2.15 Million
- /video-euro-ncap-2013-mercedes-benz-a-class-scores-5-star-rating, Mercedes-Benz A-Class awarded five stars in 2013 Euro NCAP tests
