Mercedes-Benz's new platform will produce up to 8 front-wheel-drive models

Mercedes-Benz’s front-wheel-drive vehicle platform, which currently produces five models in its range (CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, B-Class and A-Class), will be replaced by a new architecture. With the update to the MFA 2 platform, the German company will offer up to 8 front-wheel-drive models in its range. With this move, Mercedes-Benz aims to increase its sales and reach a younger audience.

The CEO of the Bavarian brand, Ola Källenius, has confirmed the launch of this platform, but has not provided further information on the models that will use this front-wheel-drive architecture. Officially, the new MFA 2 platform will be incorporated into the new generation of the A-Class (compact and saloon versions). In addition, according to several sources, this platform could also be used in the CLA Shooting Brake, the next CLA and the new B-Class, GLA and GLB (a compact SUV that will sit halfway between the GLA and the GLC).

At the Shanghai Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz officially presented the prototype of the new A-Class, which already uses the MFA 2 platform. With the launch of this model we can see the design language the brand’s new range of vehicles will use. The A-Class Sedan Concept prototype keeps a rear similar to older models but stands out for its redesigned front with a new grille design.

According to several rumours, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz vehicles built on the new MFA 2 platform will use Renault engines, their dual-clutch automatic gearboxes and their own six-speed manual gearboxes. In addition, the brand could also launch new AMG models with around 250 CV of power to attract younger customers.

For now we do not know when the models of this new platform will be launched, but the new A-Class will be built on this architecture and will reach the market in April 2018.