Mercedes A and B Class to go RWD

The Mercedes A and B Class have just undergone their mandatory facelifts and the first rumors have risen around the mini and small car from the German marque.

A German newspaper recently spoke with Mercedes Board Members who stated that Mercedes is “working on a complete new concept” for the two smallest cars in the manufacturers range. The next generation A and B Class will be based on a shortened rear-wheel-drive C Class platform.

The mini and small car segment is becoming ever more competitive and Mercedes is eager to claim its piece of the pie with a wider line-up in the market. Mercedes is contemplating to offer a small coupe, hatchback, cabriolet, MPV and even a mini-SUV. Competition for the B Class include the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Volvo C30 and the upcoming Saab 9-2 whereas the A Class will compete with the new Alfa MiTo and upcoming Audi A1.

Insiders expect to see the next generation A and B Class by 2011 in both Europe and the US. The new range will have its victims though, the Mercedes C-Class Sport Coupe will most likely be discontinued around the launch date.