Benz CLA to get new 4MATIC

Mercedes-Benz has released more details of its all-new small sedan, including the fresh all-wheel-drive mechanicals that will underpin the most powerful versions of the CLA, as well as A-Class models and the company's all-new compact SUV, the so-called GLA.

The new CLA has been photographed hereabouts in its AMG-built range-topping CLA 45 configuration. The official images are not exactly new, but reinforce the all-wheel drive messaging by depicting the car in alpine testing and on a sodden closed circuit.

Details of the new 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is new, however. Configured to be used with the new small car family's transverse four-cylinder engines, the system features a power take-off unit incorporated into the 7G-DCT twin-clutch automatic gearbox and a rear axle-mounted electro-hydraulic clutch pack.

Despite Benz's PR bumph, this is a common configuration. In using it, Benz echoes the commonplace system that (once partner) Mitsubishi has used for the Lancer Evolution, Outlander and other models.

Mercedes says the new 4MATIC system allows "fully variable distribution of the drive torque between front and rear axle".

"Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight than is available from the competition and high efficiency. Similarly to the front-wheel drive versions, all 4MATIC models also boast good energy efficiency," says the German brand.

Like Mitsubishi’s and other similar systems, in normal tractive conditions 4MATIC-equipped models are for all intents and purposes front-wheel drive. It's only when the rear-mounted clutch pack is closed that the rear axle comes into play.

Actuation is computer-controlled and occurs in milliseconds. It can be switched off just as quickly, allowing the system to be used to correct or quell oversteer and understeer conditions in addition to providing extra traction in slippery conditions.

Mercedes-Benz says a specially calibrated system will feature in AMG-fettled models such as the CLA 45 pictured. This may entail a static split of the system that ensures a higher percentage of drive is permanently channelled to the rear wheels. Such a set-up is used by Audi in some of its quattro models.

The CLA draws on the Concept Style Coupe for its styling inspiration.

Standard Benz versions of the CLA will arrive Down Under during the second half of 2013 with outputs of up to 155kW. The CLA 45 AMG will launch locally in early 2014 and, like its A-Class counterpart, is predicted to have a power output in the 250kW range.

Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.