Stiff competition for the Mk7 Golf GTI - First Edition

[alebonau]

It does seem strange that the CLA is not much smaller than the C class, yet the wheel base and interior space is comsiderably smaller. Logically one would go for the C class than the CLA.

The CLA probably appeals more to the irrational emotion of appreciating its coupe looks over its lack of practicality.

Thanks for posting the CLA pics. Me likey!

As for the C class going up in price, i doubt it. When the F30 came out, audi dropped the A4 price of the 2 litre turbo and added quattro just to compete. MB I believe gave more features (elegance or avant is now standard) and also dropped price slightly.

Judging by their aggression with A class,pricing and intent to invade the Golf's price,range, i would argue MB are sharpening the pencil instead and have been doing so lately.

you wouldnt think merc c class is stiff comp for a mk7 golf gti, yet the merc cla has taken many peoples eye just as the a250 has. I understand the new a class and the cla is to attract a younger buyer, not the type would buy a merc c class. that said the cla is probably more aimed at passat cc buyer. though that car isnt very cheap either !

[Tobes_WIR35]

I wish Mercedes would do a shrunken version of a C63 sedan or coupe. About the same dimensions as a BMW 1 series coupe. Perhaps with the 3.5L 225kW V6 that comes in the C350. Now that would be one hell of a car.

[Dutch77]

I wish Mercedes would do a shrunken version of a C63 sedan or coupe. About the same dimensions as a BMW 1 series coupe. Perhaps with the 3.5L 225kW V6 that comes in the C350. Now that would be one hell of a car.

Sounds like that would make it MB's take on the VW R32 then!

[alebonau]

I reckon it will be the next version of the bmw 1 series that will really be a hot item,

just look at styling of the bmw here ! sleek low slung wiht out all the odd ball front and looks of the 1 series.

[Dutch77]

I reckon it will be the next version of the bmw 1 series that will really be a hot item,

If they restyled the 1 with that front (they can keep the VW Polo rear) and shaved about $10-15k off the ask of the 125i then they'd have a GTI/A250 competitor.. although the lack of interior space would still be an issue for most. As it stands they're not in the contest.. and I'm not sure why, their car doesn't deserve the premium over the others.

[THE_EGG]

I reckon it will be the next version of the bmw 1 series that will really be a hot item,

just look at styling of the bmw here ! sleek low slung wiht out all the odd ball front and looks of the 1 series.

I hope you realise that this BMW is the M4... lol

TBH I quite like the 1-series. Small space doesn't bother me at all. In fact small usually means lighter which means a faster and more fuel efficient car

[alebonau]

ofcourse I know thats the m4 concept it says so in the picture

I'm just saying if 3 series has the new look, 4 series concept has the same stands to reason a good chance next 1 series will have the same, leaving behind current look of the 1 series

[DoggieHowser]

Actually that's a 4 series that was photoshopped to look like an M. The front air dams are from a 1 M series.

[Tobes_WIR35]

I'm going to the BMW factory in Munich in June so I'll be sure to take plenty of spy photo's...lol

[Dutch77]

TBH I quite like the 1-series. Small space doesn't bother me at all. In fact small usually means lighter which means a faster and more fuel efficient car

I have no issue with smaller, it's just the 1 series hatch is too small inside (as above I couldn't even get comfortable and my head brushed the roof) despite being slightly longer (4.3 v 4.2) although slightly skinnier (1.765 v 1.785), and weight wise it undercuts the GTI by only 15kg.

It just doesn't justify the huge premium price, especially with MB tackling the GTI near enough to head on with the A250.

I'm going to the BMW factory in Munich in June so I'll be sure to take plenty of spy photo's...lol

Jealous.. Do you get to squeeze in Wolfsburg?