With the inevitable demise of its small A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is debating how it wants to compete in the small car market. The latest reports suggest that Mercedes will introduce coupe and convertible versions of its B-Class small car, which is sold in most of the world, including Canada, but not the United States.
German publication AutoBild is reporting that Mercedes is considering development of a hatchback and a “BLK” roadster based off of the B-Class platform. The current B-Class is a tall, front-wheel drive, five-door “sports tourer,” in Mercedes-speak. Mercedes could potentially develop the platform to better compete with the BMW 1-Series , which is offered in more traditional car-style forms.
The magazine is also reporting that Mercedes could base these small cars off of the larger rear-wheel drive C-Class platform, which would allow larger engines, something that would be favored in North America.
