While it’s already been widely speculated that the new C63 will get all-wheel-drive with a drift mode, while also downsizing to a hybridised version of the A45’s 2-litre turbopetrol engine, Autocar is reporting that the C53 will follow a similar path, albeit in detuned form.
With the current V6-powered C43 producing 287kW, it’s likely that its C53 replacement will be tuned to produce at least 300kW or more, possibly even matching the A45 S’s 310kW output.
According to Autocar, the C53 will get a nine-speed automatic gearbox as well as a heavily updated version of the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Though there’s no mention of a drift mode as yet, the AWD system will be more variable in the amount of torque that it can transfer between the front and rear axles.
The new A45 will also be set apart by a Panamericana grille featuring vertical louvres, as well as the obligatory redesigned bumpers and larger rims.
As previously reported, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan will be built in South Africa, following a R10 billion investment made in the East London facility. The current model is one of South Africa’s top car exports, with volumes of around 10 000 units a month.
The new body shop will have a higher capacity, while the assembly shop will get three new lines, although it has yet to be disclosed just to what extent volumes will increase.
Expect to see the first units crossing the assembly line some time in 2021.
