With these pictures, it’s all but confirmed that an AMG version of the GLA-Class Mercedes crossover is in the works. Caught testing in Sweden, this GLA, which of course doesn't have any AMG badging on it, was given away by its big brakes, dual exhausts and unusual ride height.
Based on the MFA platform on which both the A-Class and B-Class share, this upcoming road warrior will carry the GLA45 badge. In times past, it would have meant a 4.5 liter engine, but this time, it denotes the 45 years of AMG's existence. It looks though that the GLA45 will actually carry a turbo 2-liter four, pumping out a healthy 335 horsepower. 350 hp has been bandied about, and that's a possibility, given that the S-Models from AMG's upmarket offerings have higher horsepower than standard. Coupled to this engine will be AMG's 7-speed Speedshift. And 4Matic? Very likely, given the fact that it has become standard issue with the aforementioned S-Model variants.
If you're salivating right now and getting ready to whip out your checkbook, hold those horses. By most accounts, it will be at least a year before the GLA45 AMG makes it to dealerships.
A recent survey participated by automotive executives all over the world showed that their confidence remains high on BMW. Daimler falls behind in the 16th place of the rankings. The survey was conducted by the Swiss-based firm, KPMG LLP. Two hundred executives were involved in accomplishing the survey. It is the 14th annual global automotive executive survey that the firm facilitated.
BMW was forecasted by 70% of the participants to increase its market share by 5 years. A small percentage of 5% only saw it on the losing end. The rest predicted that it would remain stable until 2018. On the other hand, Daimler falls behind in the rankings. Only 41% stated that it would experience gains in the market by 2018, 15% of them said it won't and the rest said that it will remain the same. However, it should be worth noting that the percentage of executives who are confident with the company is 10% higher than last year.
Once again, auto execs said that Volkswagen will have the most growth in the next 5 years. According to the survey results, 81% of the respondents saw the potential of Volkswagen to have an increase in its global market share by 2018. The figure is 11% higher than last year's survey. Only 3% said that it would experience losses and the rest said that it would remain stable.
Below is the result of the survey:
You can click this link read the whole research that was conducted by KPMG.
How about you? What do you think about the status of Daimler in the global market over the next 5 years?
Hit the comments below to share your thoughts.
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