The fourth generation C-class saloon from Mercedes-Benz will be unveiled later this month and shown officially at the Detroit auto show. One of the biggest changes the carmaker has incorporated into the new C-class is the adoption of a new rear-wheel drive platform, derived from the bigger E- and S-class. The new C-class (Codename W205) will be offered to buyers in the traditional saloon, coupe, and wagon body styles in international markets.

Additionally, for this generation, it will also be launched in convertible and liftback body styles to compete with the likes of the BMW 3-series GT and Audi A5 Sportback. The C-class liftback version is scheduled to be unveiled in 2015.The fourth generation C-class will be the first to be based on the manufacturer's new modular rear-wheel drive architecture known as MRA. The 2015 GLK SUV will also be based on this architecture.

The new C-class is expected to be lighter than the current generation car by over 80kg due to the new car's low-weight body structure and an aluminum hybrid construction process. Also the suspension setup utilises more aluminum parts, which further reduces its weight. Some of the other weight reducing measures taken by Mercedes include an increase in the percentage of hot-formed and high-strength steel.  Continued..