Report: Mercedes-Benz plans extensive rollout of small cars

The current-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class mini MPVs and B-Class compact hatchbacks haven't exactly tallied the type of sales volume the German automaker had anticipated, but M-B is hard at work trying to change that. The next generation of both the A- and B-Class, to be based on a common front-wheel-drive platform, will reportedly be offered in several configurations to appeal to a broader market.

M-B is apparently considering body styles that include a convertible, a shooting brake, a hatchback, a CLS-style coupe and a baby SUV to slot in below its GLK and compete with the BMW X1. In addition, M-B will likely launch a second-generation B-Class F-Cell model, though there's no word on which body style(s) will receive the hydrogen-fed setup.

Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz is reportedly pitching its front-wheel-drive system to Renault-Nissan for use in an entry-level Infiniti model.

[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]