Latest spy pictures of the new Mercedes C-class estate testing ahead of its launch in 2014
The new Mercedes-Benz C-class estate has been caught testing in this latest set of spy shots.
The model is expected to launch shortly after the C-class saloon, which will go on sale in 2014. This prototype was spotted testing on German roads. The model could be seen as early as the Detroit motor show in January.
The estate is likely to offer even more space than the outgoing car, since Mercedes has confirmed the new saloon has a 90mm longer wheelbase. That move is aimed at providing more space in the cabin. Currently, the C-class estate offers 485 litres of space with its rear seats up, rising to 1500 litres with them down.
While Mercedes has yet to reveal any technical information about the new C-class estate, its engine lineup is expected to reflect those offered in the saloon range.
That means a base four-cylinder petrol unit in both 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre guises, as well as a lightly revised four-cylinder common-rail diesel unit in both 2.0 and 2.2-litre forms. Both engines will be Euro 6-emissions compliant. A small percentage of UK sales of both models will be taken by a range of Mercedes' six-cylinder engines.
Most models of the estate are likely to be rear-wheel drive, although it's expected that Mercedes will allow owners to upgrade to its 4Matic all-wheel drive system for a cost.