Quote:
Originally Posted by HoundForHire
Incorrect. The CLA45 employs a permanent AWD system, powered by a new compact PTU. It functions(at least on the CLA) in 70:30 and can, If the driving dynamics require, split the torque between front and rear axle at a ratio
of up to 50 : 50 percent.
Feel free to Google it, check the press release, or find the white papers that came with it.
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What I've read does not sound like it's a permanent power distribution (which is odd since Haldex4 and newer have included this and MB is using Haldex). This includes a discussion with the head engineer who says:
"The car can send 50 percent of the drive to the back diff if it needs to, and you vary the torque split with the ESP button. It's normally front-wheel drive with the AWD as a traction support system, but in Sport it moves more torque to the back," Mr. Moers said.
http://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz...oad-test1.html
So best case, it can send 50% of the power to the rear wheels, or still be less rear biased than a 4Matic car (or xDrive or quattro) before it detects slip. Still sounds like a bucket of understeer. Let's wait for actual reviews though.