Additional new small car models being investigated by Mercedes-Benz include a sporty three-door hatchback variant of the new A-class to compete with the likes of the Volkswagen Scirocco and a long-mooted Audi A3 cabriolet rival with a fabric roof. However, these are not planned to appear before the end of 2015, according to well placed Mercedes-Benz sources.
“If we decide to produce them,” said an insider, “they will more likely be added to the portfolio in the subsequent generation once we have established our new small car platform and ramp up production at our Hungarian plant.”
The three-door A-class was previewed at last year’s Shanghai motor show by the Vision A concept. It features a rakish, coupé-like roofline and a narrow glasshouse.
Another new model being investigated is a long-wheelbase B-class. This would allow for a third row of seats, making seven in all, and give the firm a premium entry into the booming mini-MPV segment. Like the three-door A-class and A-class cabriolet, the B-class Plus isnít scheduled to appear before 2015.
