The China launch ceremony for B-Class, Jan 2009

Written by Gong Zaiyan

Photo from Internet

   Mercedes-Benz (China) has commenced presales for the A-Class which will be China`s first small-sized luxury car with overall length less than 4 meters, if Mini and Smart are not included. New models, A160 and A180, will be powered by two gasoline engines, priced from RMB 230,000 to 290,000 (€ 24,470 to 30,850), just between Smart Fortwo and B200. The A-Class aims at the young elites who desire superior driving convenience and are seeking a luxury vehicle that embodies the ultimate practicality.

   In China, Mercedes is one step ahead Audi, who has just introduced A3 two months ago. Audi has no schedule for introduction of A1. While BMW began to import Mini Cooper in 2002, but Mini is not BMW, that`s why BMW are developing Megacity.

   The introduction of A-Class is inspired by a surprising success of B-Class, which has been available from January 2009, priced from RMB 288,000 to 318,000 (€ 30,637 to 33,828). At that time, the MPV-like ‘luxury wagon’ had an uncertain prospect, because B-Class is not a sedan like all other Mercedes in China. But finally, the relatively inexpensive price worked, helping B-Class become a rising three-pointed star in China. However, B200`s success does not inevitably bring a victory of its Jazz-like brother, for it may be too small but not cute enough.