Mercedes to Build Four Distinct Compact Cars at New Hungarian Plant

Mercedes-Benz has revealed plans to create a new range of compact cars that will consist of four distinct models including perhaps an SUV model aimed towards BMW’s planned X1 crossover along with a sporty roadster/coupe, instead of today’s two vehicle line-up, the A- and B-Class.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the new-generation compact cars will include “product characteristics that are already popular with customers today like generous interior space and an elevated seating position”. The compact models will also benefit from new 4-cylinder diesel engines which are having their market premiere latter this year. -Continued

"Mercedes-Benz is going to offer an even wider range of exciting premium cars – with the high levels of comfort, safety and overall quality that are characteristic for the brand – in the particularly fuel-efficient compact-car segment. Moreover, our expanded product range will allow us to tap into new customer groups and open up new market regions," commented Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The compact size models will be produced at two plants, one in Rastatt, Germany that will receive a €600 Million makeover and an all-new factory that is being built in Kecskemét approximately 80 km from the outskirts of Budapest in Hungary. Mercedes-Benz is planning to invest some €800 million locally in Kecskemét and to create up to 2,500 new jobs for people in the region.