Report: next Mercedes B-Class could spawn derivatives
We doubt you'll be mourning the loss of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which, as we reported earlier this month, might be canceled rather than replaced in 2011. The compact hatchback never won resounding praise, and for good reason, was never sold in the US. The larger B-Class, however, is likely to be replaced in the same year, and could spawn a number of derivatives.
The current B-Class, which is sold to our hockey-loving neighbors to the north, is only offered as a five-door hatchback. The next B could be joined by a sportier hatch and even a roadster, with the potential for US importation. The latter was previewed in part by the Vision SLA concept shown at Detroit way back in 2000. Earlier reports also suggested the possibility of the next B-Class borrowing from the C-Class platform, which would mean rear-wheel-drive, in proper Benz style, instead of the front-drive of the current A and B.
[Source: AutoBild via Motor Authority]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Rolf B 12:32PM (7/16/2007)
Still say the A-class should be handed over to SMART and developed as the "large" Smart or as a ForFour replacement.
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Peter 12:34PM (7/16/2007)
Theres something appealing to that picture, but at the same time its really weird. Strange combo if you ask me. im sure it'll please a lot of small benz lovers.
http://www.succeedwiththis.com
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geo.stewart 1:54PM (7/16/2007)
Its an attractive car, and that the car is still cutting edge either shows how forward thinking Benz can be, or how slow the market actually moves. The F1-inspired nose embedded in a standard roadster pkg is obviously its defining characteristic. also, likely NOT to make production. The other neat item was the vertical LED taillights but as they rode up the trunk line, they tended to disappear from view.
Gerard 5:54PM (7/16/2007)
I'd rather see Mercedes spend money making its cars dependable and lighter.
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