The next model to join Mercedes-Benz's expanded family of compact cars after the new five-door A-Class and the minivan-like B-Class will be the production version of the impressive looking Concept Style Coupé (CSC) sports sedan seen earlier this year that we will come to know as the CLA. Our spy photographers spotted Mercedes-Benz engineers testing a camouflaged prototype of the CLA at the Nürburgring track.
Even though the CLA will sit right under the C-Class as Mercedes-Benz's entry-level saloon, it will have similar exterior dimensions to the German firm's executive model.
In fact, in concept form, at 4,637mm (182.6 inches) long, 1,891mm (74.5 inches) wide and 1,398mm (55 inches) tall, the CSC was actually 46mm longer (1.8-in.), and 121mm (4.8-in.) wider than the C-Class sedan.
Being based on the A-Class' modular MFA platform, the CLA rides on the same 2,699mm long wheelbase.
The two models will also share most four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, with the North American CLA to be offered with the more powerful variants.
The flagship model of the range will be an AMG-prepped version featuring the same driveline as the upcoming A45 AMG sports hatchback.
Earlier this month, Mercedes-Benz confirmed that the A45 AMG will get a specially developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine producing 330hp (335PS) and a "maximum torque significantly above 295lb ft (400Nm)".
An AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual clutch technology will work together with an all-wheel drive system to transfer power to the road.
The CLA 45 AMG will likely be introduced about a year after the presentation of the regular models in 2013.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoop
