Mercedes Benz India announced its plans to launch the B-Class as a Sports Tourer before Diwali to a group of Indian automobile bloggers last month. The price tag is likely to hover between the 20-25 lakh rupee mark. This is the first time Mercedes has considered a compact premium car for India and said it expects company in the next two-three years from the two other German rivals.
Mercedes India said consumer behavior will tilt this segment in favor of SUVs, but takers are plenty for the three-box and sports tourer (mini MPV) body styles.
Before its India foray, the B-Class will be launched in China through the Beijing-Benz JV. The Chinese market gets a fully imported car whereas Merc will sell locally produced vehicles in India. The starting price of the B-Class in China is expected to be about the equivalent of 24.3 lakh rupees for the 1.8-liter turbo petrol model.
Mercedes has already introduced the new B-Class to a warm reception in countries like the UK and many parts of Europe.
[Source - Autohome.com.cn via CarNewsChina.com]
