Mercedes-Benz to look for smaller engine options for their entry-level cars

Economy is the priority of all manufacturers and one way to obtain optimum efficiency is to go for a smaller engine size. Many car companies are now downsizing their engines and Mercedes is all set to join this bandwagon. Mercedes-Benz is looking to offer smaller engines for their range of entry level models such as A-Class, CLA and the GLA.

 The new 1.2 and 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engines produced by Mercedes-Benz under the code name M282 will be launched with the next generation A-Class, which is expected to go on sale in UK by mid-2018. The downsizing of the engine is aimed at attaining improved economy and reduced emissions.

The new engine is developed in partnership with Mercedes’ parent company, Daimler and its alliance partner Renault-Nissan. The newer engines will have a transverse layout and will be basically front wheel drives, which limit them from being used under the hood of bigger Mercedes-Benz models.

In the Indian market, the current generation of the A-Class is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. The former produces 122bhp and the latter is capable of churning out 136bhp.

The A-Class is n entry level vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz family although it is a premium luxury hatchback in the Indian market. The launch of the next generation A-Class with the newer engines on offer is highly anticipated but not anytime soon. The downsized block will reduce the cost of the vehicle for its buyers and help the vehicle in becoming compatible to the stringent emission norms in future.

In the Indian market, the vehicle rivals against the BMW 1-Series and the Mini Cooper.