Remember the Mercedes-Benz B-Class? It's a tiny little hatchback thing that almost made it to the U.S. a few years ago. The prototype you see here is the next-generation version, and like its predecessor, it has a chance of coming to the U.S.
Not a very good one mind you, mostly because Mercedes-Benz is a little unsure whether Americans are ready for such a small vehicle with a three-pointed start on the back. Then again, it would be a big help in terms of lowering the company's fleet-wide fuel economy numbers, so that could convince Dieter that's its worth the trouble.
mlh says:
01:12 PM, 02/ 5/10
Not very flattering photos, but the truth is that for a daily driver I would buy the diesel version in a heartbeat.
firstwagon says:
01:28 PM, 02/ 5/10
You me these things?
http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/rch/ctd/1572339446.html
I'm surprised the US never got them. I've seen more then I can count running around Vancouver. It's not a tiny as you think (bigger then a Matix for example) and is the popular choice for people who want a Mercedes but need something more practical and cheaper then the rest of the line up.
thejohnp says:
02:35 PM, 02/ 5/10
Kind of looks like a longer Vibe/Matrix or Versa. And at a MB pricepoint? Good luck selling that in the US.
firstwagon says:
02:59 PM, 02/ 5/10
I don't know what it would cost in the US but it starts at $29,999 in Canada which is only a couple thousand more then a Matrix XRS ($27,899). Not cheap but it feels a lot more high end then the Matrix and people will pay for that. Not me but others will.
stephen987 says:
11:29 AM, 02/ 6/10
I can't see this competing with the 1-series BMW. . .
dougtheeng says:
06:15 AM, 02/ 8/10
"I can't see this competing with the 1-series BMW. . ."
its a completely different vehicle. Its like a little van, not a sports coupe.
seppoboy says:
06:53 AM, 02/ 8/10
I see the current B-Class occasionally, with Ontario plates usually. It is handsome and looks well designed, about the size of the VW Golf. Given what a solid, well-engineered car the A5 and A6 Golf has been, I'm not sure the Benz is functionally superior, despite its higher price point. I think I prefer the Golf instrument panel and seating, as well. Maybe Volvo S40/V50 are the most direct competitors in price and positioning.