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Report: Mercedes Planning Three B-Class Models for U.S. Including Crossover, Hatch and Sedan

09/03/2010 | By: Colum Wood Add a Comment

Mercedes-Benz will introduce a new B-Class platform in Europe in 2011, with many different variants – several of which are destined for the U.S. According to a recent report by Automotive News, Mercedes will bring up to three B-Class models to the U.S., including a hatchback, sedan and a small crossover. The move comes as little surprise if Mercedes it to compete with premium level hatchbacks like the Audi A3 and Lexus CT200h, as well as crossovers like the upcoming BMW X1. (Mercedes BLK anyone?)

There’s no word on engines yet, but the report suggests an alternative energy (electric, hybrid or fuel cell) model is in the plans. In addition, AMG is reportedly planning to deliver a rear-drive high-performance model based on the new B-Class.

As excited as we are about these new Benzes, don’t expect to see any of them in the U.S. until at least 2012 – although we’ll be sure to keep a close eye on the European models coming next year.

[Source: Automotive News via Autoblog]

Report: AMG to Build 300-hp Entry-Level Mercedes, Based on F800 Style Concept

New model will get a turbocharged 4-cylinder, all-wheel drive and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission

25/02/2010 | By: Colum Wood 1 Comment

We had presumed that the sloped and sexy F800 Style concept set to debut next week at the Geneva Auto Show was a look ahead at the future of the CLS, but according to a new report it may in fact be a look at an upcoming sub-C-Class model.

According to AutoCar, the F800 previews a new entry-level Mercedes and an AMG version of the car will compete against vehicles like the Golf R and Audi S3. Presumably that list also includes the BMW 135. Power will come from a turbocharged 2.0-liter, direct-injection 4-cylinder with a seven-seed dual-clutch gearbox and all-wheel drive. Power will be rated at 300-hp and torque at 220 ft-lbs.

It’s not clear if a hatchback will be offered, but the decision to build the new model initially as a sedan is due to a high demand for sedans over hatchbacks in the U.S. – a huge market for AMG.

This new platform will also spawn a crossover for Mercedes, likely to be dubbed the BLK, slotting in underneath the GLK and competing against the upcoming BMW X1.

[Source: AutoCar]