Mercedes confirms B-Class coming to America

For a few years now, we've debated whether or not Mercedes-Benz would be bringing its entry-level A-Class or the slightly bigger B-Class to the States. Fine cars both, but how well they'd fit into M-B's luxury image was a big question mark. Well, according to Bloomberg, DaimlerChrysler AG has made a decision. Mercedes is indeed planning on bringing the new B Stateside. Benz officials said the company is designing a North American version of the car for the first time. So that's the good news. The bad news is that it will likely be 2011 or 2012 before that model is set for replacement, which is most likely when our version will appear.
Bigger than an Aveo but smaller than a Corolla, this B-Class mini-crossover would join a segment of luxury-economy cars that includes the Audi A3 and upcoming BMW 1-Series. Even with recent dips in gas prices, high mileage vehicles seem like they will be a more popular choice for buyers for years to come. The current B, although not a huge seller, is already available in Canada, so Mercedes has some data on whether or not it might work. But with such a long lead time, anything can happen, and there's still a chance M-B could reconsider. We say bring it on. Who wouldn't want the Mercedes of economy cars? That is unless a smart car makes enough sense for your needs.

[Source: Bloomberg]