It’s no secret Mercedes-Benz is working on revamping their A-Class and B-Class lineups, as the company has confirmed they’ll be redesigning the entry level ranges from the ground up in a variety of body types. Speculating on what exactly might be in store for the models, Auto Express has published a rather lengthy look at Mercedes upcoming models, starting with the fact a newly designed hatchback is in the works set to rival the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. According to the publication, the new model will be based on a new front-wheel drive platform, and it will take its design cues primarily from the F800 Style concept in either a three or five door design. Launching in 2012, the hatchback will likely maintain the A-Class moniker, and it will serve as one of four new key vehicles making use of Mercedes’ new front wheel drive architecture.
Commenting on the changes to their compact lineup, Dr. Joachim Schmidt, head of sales and marketing at Mercedes-Benz, noted: “In the next couple of years, we will launch additional cars where we don’t currently have predecessors. Our current A-Class and B-Class will be replaced by a new platform for four totally different cars defining new segments for Mercedes.” Schmidt went on to state that “If you want young customers, you need to have a brand that is sexy and sporty. The reason we didn’t get this customer before was, in my opinion, not a brand issue, but a product issue.”
To help Mercedes reach a younger audience, Mercedes is also said to be planning a small 4×4 or 2×4 crossover to take aim at the BMW X1. Another model said to be in the works is a small four-door coupé, possibly badged the BLS, that will seek to capitalize on the success of the CLS, in a smaller package. Both are likely to see a release date in 2013.
Of course, with two year to go before any of the revamped compact Mercedes will make their debut, it’s still early to say anything definitively regarding the new A-Class and B-Class lines. We’ll keep you posted if new details or spy photos of any are revealed, but in the meantime, you can check out the full Auto Express article here.
