Auto News 5

BMW’s change in nomenclature from 3-series coupe to 4-series for the new model premiering this year comes from Audi’s highly successful playbook, where the not-for-U.S. A5 Sportback complements the A5 coupe and cabriolet, and the conventional sedan and wagon are A4 models. The Bavarian answer to Ingolstadt’s Sportback five-door hatchback is the 4-series Gran Coupe. Meanwhile, though Mercedes-Benz is readying a new C-class coupe, it has iced a C-class convertible that was nearly ready for production, to cut costs. The A-class-based CLA will have to play the role of C-class four-door coupe. Clever strategy, or wishful thinking? Only time will tell.