2012 Mercedes B-Class Caught Winter Testing

Spy photographers in Northern Sweden spotted the 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class during winter weather testing which has now begun.  The second generation compact MPV will replace the facelifted first generation model, which hit the market in 2008.

The hatchback is said to have many design cues seen on the BlueZero Concept shown at the '09 NAIAS.  If this is true, expect to see a B-Class with a sportier front end, flowing side panels, rear spoiler, and redesigned LED rear light cluster.

According to sources, the new model will use a front wheel-drive platform different from the one utilized for the A-Class.  Aside from the hatchback, Mercedes may bring the car out as a five-door coupe and coupe cabriolet.  To help appeal to a younger customer base, the car could have more interior space as part of the refinements.

Although the B-Class was originially supposed to head across the pond to North American consumers, those plans were halted because of the strong Euro.  With the American Dollar trading near its two-year low, it remains to be seen if the next generation model will travel across the pond.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class should be released sometime in 2011.