Mercedes-Benz is planning to introduce a total of four models under the next-generation 2012 B-Class banner. Two of these will be a hatchback and a small SUV, and both will be sold in the United States.
Joachim Schmidt, sales and marketing boss, told Automotive News that a third sedan model to be available in Europe would also be considered for the US. It is quite a gamble for Mercedes-Benz to bring out a car below the C-Class to a market known for not being particularly fond of small premium cars.
Nevertheless Schmidt believes things are changing in America and that a key factor to the B-Class's success will be a fuel-efficient powertrain. If a plug-in hybrid or a fuel cell model can be offered it would help, reckons Schmidt.
The next-generation 2012 B-Class was previewed as the BlueZero Concept (pictured) at the 2009 North American International Auto Show and later spied wearing a heavy black disguise.
