Mercedes C-Class long wheelbase version set to debut in China

It is an open secret that the Chinese love the rear seat of their cars. Majority of premium car buyers, in fact, prioritise rear seat comfort above all the parameters. This also explains how long wheelbase versions based on their respective standard models have become the easiest of assuring sales in China. Nearly all premium luxury carmakers are currently offering LWB versions developed specifically for the Chinese market.

The latest to join the fray is the long wheelbase version of the latest-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Called the C-Class L, this new model will make its official debut soon at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. Developed exclusively for Chinese buyers, the new C-Class L gets its wheelbase extended by 60mm to bring the total figure to 2900mm.

The C-Class L reportedly will be offered with a range of turbocharged petrol engines ranging from 1.6-litres to 3-litres. To be pitted against other China-specific long wheelbase models like the Audi A4L and the BMW 3Li. 

Now the Indian market is very similar to the Chinese in terms of demand for extra room in the rear seats. However, the existing BMW 7-Series Li, the Audi A8L and the Jaguar XJL are on offer mainly because the manufacturers can do away with low volumes that such kind of cars generate. With the Indian market continuing to evolve at a steady rate with more demand for entry-level premium cars by the day, there is a slight possibility that in the coming years, Indian buyers might also get to choose between long wheelbase versions of relatively less expensive cars from luxury marquees like the Mercedes C-Class L shown here. 

Image source:CarNewsChina