Mercedes-Benz CEO hints at more C-Class variants

Looking to fill more niches in the United States market, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ernst Lieb has indicated the next-generation C-Class lineup will launch with coupe, convertible and wagon variants.

Mercedes-Benz has already confirmed a new compact vehicle family for the United States based on the next-generation B-Class, but the German automaker is also working on new variants for its next C-Class range.

Mercedes will expand into the lower end of the U.S. market by 2012 with coupe, sedan and crossover variations of its next-generation B-Class, but the automaker will also fill more niches in the medium segment with additional variations of its next-gen C-Class.

Speaking with Automotive News, Mercedes CEO Ernst Lieb revealed that the German automaker is also readying several variations of its next C-Class model, set to launch in 2013. With the BMW 3-Series squarely in its sights, the next C-Class family will likely grow to include coupe, convertible and wagon models.

"Everybody wants to be Mercedes-Benz," Lieb said. "They are after us in the S- and E-class segment. With C class, we're sitting with a four-door sedan and not doing anything else. Now we will go into segments where [competitors] are strong."


Expect to see the new C-Class variants in Mercedes showrooms sometime in 2013.

References
1. 'Lieb says small...' view