Next Mercedes-Benz B-Class to get AMG variant

Mercedes-Benz is planning on offering a high-performance AMG version of the new redesigned B-Class when the car comes to the United States in 2011. The model will be the first compact high-performance model from Mercedes-AMG GmbH and is an attempt to attract younger customers, says Volker Mornhinweg, CEO of Mercedes-AMG.

While all current AMG vehicles are powered by 8-cylinder engines, the AMG version of the B-Class will most likely get a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine to compete with the lies of the Golf R32 and the Audi S3 – both which are not sold in the United States.

The U.S. market is AMG’s largest with sales of 5,486 vehicles last year, down from 7,893 in 2008. Worldwide sales for AMG models have come in around 20,000 units annually for the past five years and reached a record 24,200 in 2008.

Most AMG models typically carry a $20,000-plus premium.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)