Currently reading: New Mercedes B-class spied

New front-drive hatch is set for a 2011 launch

These are the first spy shots of the new Mercedes B-class. The front-wheel drive hatchback was originally launched in 2005 and the new model is set to be launched in 2011.

See the hi-res Mercedes B-class spy pics

New variants are expected to join the standard hatchback in the range, including a BMW 1-series-rivaling sports hatch and a four-door saloon with sportier coupe styling.

New diesel and petrol engines are expected to join the range, while the new model could also be used as a showcase for alternative fuel technology.

Mercedes has already launched limited b-class-based production versions of its all-electric E-cell and hydrogen-powered F-cell. Expect to see a hybrid version of the B-class make series production.

The BlueZero concept seen at the Detroit motor show in January strongly hints at the styling on the new B-class. The spy shots show a more squared off roofline, which leads to its new, larger C-pillars.

The car also appears to be longer than the current model, which should improve interior room for passengers.

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J400uk 15 October 2009

Re: New Mercedes B-class spied

VX220EDDIE wrote:
ive never seen the point in both the a class and b class ditch one or even better ditch both and make a seven seater and call it a smart forseven and let the mercedes brand be for models like sl cls cl slk e ml and c class once more! and now with the inotrduction of the x1 surely the glk class will be bound for the uk

Firstly the A-Class sells in vast numbers so they won't drop that, and secondly they need the B-Class as people are gradually downsizing to smaller more fuel efficent cars thse days.

There is no market for a 7-seat SMART car, as the brand is all about small city freindly cars, not big MPVs.

As for your comment about the Mercedes GLK, thats a BMW X3 rival, not X1. The Mercedes to rival the X1 will be a 4WD derivative of the next A/B Class.

VX220EDDIE 14 October 2009

Re: New Mercedes B-class spied

ive never seen the point in both the a class and b class ditch one or even better ditch both and make a seven seater and call it a smart forseven and let the mercedes brand be for models like sl cls cl slk e ml and c class once more! and now with the inotrduction of the x1 surely the glk class will be bound for the uk

TheWizardWeb 13 October 2009

Re: New Mercedes B-class spied

What's with the pics of the Dodgy Calibre? Is it an engineering mule or the last remnants of the Daimler/Chrysler tie up and will spawn some other crime against motoring?