Mercedes to build long-wheelbase C-Class for China
Mon, 23 Dec 2013
It seems that for any sedan – luxury or otherwise – to flourish in the Chinese auto market, it must offer a long-wheelbase model. Recent news of Chinese-exclusive stretch jobs includes the Infiniti M, BMW 3 Series and even the Hyundai Elantra, and now Reuters is reporting that Mercedes will offer its all-new 2015 C-Class with a long wheelbase for Chinese buyers.
There are no specifics about this lengthened C-Class, but Mercedes board member Thomas Weber told Reuters that the long-wheelbase model would be built and sold in China. With production of the 2015 C-Class occurring in four countries (US, China, Germany and South Africa), Mercedes will be able to match specific models to local markets. A station wagon, which we've already seen in spy photos, was also confirmed in the conversation with Weber, but there's still no word regarding a next-gen C-Class Coupe.
By Jeffrey N. Ross