Mercedes-Benz is currently mulling the prospect of launching a set of small cars under the X-Class name. These cars will sit below the A-Class and are expected to be underpinned by the next generation Renault Clio platform. Renault-Nissan and Daimler had bought 3.1 per cent stake in each other in 2010 as a part of a strategic alliance.
The car is expected to be launched in three variants; a sedan, hatchback and a crossover and will be powered by two sets of engines; a 1.0-litre three-cylinder mill and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder mill. We expect that at least one variant will be turbocharged.
According to reports, the cars are likely to generate major backlash among die-hard Mercedes-Benz fans but the company is reportedly making an effort to ensure that cars remain modern, classy and have all the features that define a Mercedes-Benz car. They are expected to have a base price of less than 25,000 USD and will most likely be manufactured in a low-cost country to keep economies of scale in check.
These vehicles are expected to go up against cars like the BMW 1-Series and the Audi A1. The big question for is whether they will reach our shores and the answer is yes. There is growing demand for such vehicles in our country and with analysts predicting that crossovers will comprise a huge market share within the next few years, it is almost certain that Mercedes-Benz might even assemble the cars here. However, given our affinity for oil burners, the Indian spec models will surely be offered with diesel mills.
Image: Theophilus
