Called M274 internally, the small gas-burning four-banger is essentially a longitudinally-mounted version of the transversal M270 mill that already powers the B-Class and that will be utilized by the A-Class hatchback in the near future.
Performance figures were not released but the engine is rated at 122 horsepower and 147 foot-pounds of torque. A more potent variant that is good for 156 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds will also be offered.
In the past a C-Class powered by a 1.6-liter engine would have worn a C160 emblem on its trunk lid. That is no longer the case and the mechanically downsized C-Classes are expected to retain their existing C180 and C200 monikers.
A full set of technical details about the C-Class' new powerplant will be released in the next couple of weeks.
