Can the B-Class Bedazzle U.S. Buyers?
Just as significant is that not only will M-B be adding green entries to all of its segments, but it’s also adding segments. Per a recent story in Automotive News, Mercedes is prepping a new compact hatchback and compact crossover (and possible small sedan) for U.S. consumption, although they likely won’t hit our shores until 2012. Here’s the deal: Although the C-Class represents the closest thing to an entry-level Mercedes product available to U.S. buyers, the situation is far different in Europe. For example, in the UK, the lineup starts with a three-door hatchback, the A-Class, that’s just 153 inches long — that’s right between the size of a MINI Cooper and a Honda Fit — for about $22,300. And there’s also a slightly bigger B-Class, a small multipurpose vehicle that’s about the size of a Nissan Versa (169 inches) and starts at approximately $28,757. Now, the B-Class is due for a redesign in 2011, and, as things stand now, the proposed U.S. vehicles will be built off that new platfor
