Mercedes won't use a new front-wheel drive platform developed with Renault-Nissan as the basis for a Smart-badged SUV.
In an interview with Autocar, Mercedes-Benz boss Dieter Zetsche confirmed that all future Smart models will be based around the new rear engine/rear-wheel drive platform. “It is the brand’s defining feature, a unique selling point that sets Smart apart,” he said. “There are no plans to adopt a more conventional front engine/front-wheel drive layout for a larger, additional model.”
Instead of adding a dedicated SUV to its line-up, to rival the likes of the upcoming Volkswagen Taigun, Smart plans to spin a crossover model off its upcoming second-generation Forfour. It will feature a raised ride height and body cladding.
However, Zetsche refused to rule out the possibility of a new entry-level SUV being added to the Mercedes-Benz line-up, beneath the third-generation A-class, as a rival to the Mini Countryman. “Given the premium-class competition, it is paramount to have the [Mercedes-Benz] star on a car even at this end of the market,” he said.
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Mercedes cars are the stylish
Mercedes cars are the stylish and luxurious car that we ever had so for this reason it is the most demanded car in the car market till date and from my point of view it will be the most demanded car for many years. So, after having this car we have to maintain this car and also have to repair it from good Porsche Mechanic Chicago repair centers whenever required to get better perormance from it. .
That is a real shame, I think
That is a real shame, I think a small SUV would be a perfect sales booster for Smart. Never understood why they cancelled the formore a few years ago. If they had produced it, they wouldve beaten Nissan & Mini to the market
Go tell BMW
I wish BMW would take a "engineering" position like this regarding their 1 series.