For IndianAutosBlog.com readers, it is no secret that Mercedes Benz India is mulling the introduction of the B-Klasse next year. An example is likely to be flown down to the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo following which Mercedes Benz will work out the configuration and prices.
We believe the B-Class is a stop-gap until the crossover on the MFA is ready to lock horns with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Considering that the X1 is a soft-roader, customers preferring the B-Class over the X1 will not miss any of the gadgetry as there's nothing the X1 has that the B-Class doesn't. Sure the X1 is ahead on road presence and the view of the road ahead is commanding from the elevated driving position, but how many times have we heard of a mini MPV in India?
The B-Class is a great second car for existing Mercedes Benz customers. As cities get crowded with thousands of vehicles fighting for their space, the compact dimensions of the B-Class lets it go where an E- or S-Class will struggle to. The important point is the B-Class is a Mercedes Benz. From the buyer's view, there's no compromise on the quality or the comfort.
Leaving out existing Merc owners, we're not able to think of sure-shot B-Class target groups. Will the Indian customer prefer a MPV over an SUV for the same price? Or is it another battle of the badges? We'll soon find out!
