Look out BMW 3 Series. Details on the 2014 C-Class is starting to emerge. Mercedes-Benz insiders claim that little or nothing will be carried over from the existing C-class and it will be completely re-engineered with the aim of attracting younger buyers.

The new C-class will be the first model to use Mercedes-Benz's new MRA (modular rear-wheel drive architecture) platform. Due to the light weight chassis, the new car is said to weigh less despite growing to a size of 4.7m long.

The existing MacPherson strut suspension will be replaced by a double wishbone layout at the front while the back will get a significantly updated multi-link setup. Engine-wise, there will be a range of 4-cylinder and V6 petrol engines with an entry-level 2.0-litre turbo with 184bhp right up to a 330bhp 3.0-litre twin-turbo. The current 2.1-litre diesel will be offered in four states of tune, spanning 120bhp to 220bhp.

The new C-class will be equipped with a six-speed manual or an updated version of the current seven-speed automatic gearbox, depending on the engine. A new nine-speed automatic transmission is undergoing development and could make it for the face lift in 2017.

Four body styles are planned for the new C-class. They include the saloon and estate, which will be launched at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, and a more individually styled coupe as well as a cabriolet version for 2015 launch. All body styles will be 'AMG-ed' and receive a new turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine from the Mercedes tuning specialist.

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