The Indian arm of Mercedes-Benz, a well-appreciated German luxury automotive maker, has revealed intentions to bring a diesel model of its B-Class Sports Tourer premium hatchback in the domestic market this year. The company is expected to introduce its much awaited diesel B-Class to Indian audience by the end of first quarter of 2013-14 fiscal. The German auto major launched its B-Class Sports Tourer model in the Indian premium car market in September 2012. Since its arrival, Mercedes-Benz India has garnered some extremely impressive sales and even announced that it will introduce a number of similar aggressively priced models under the sub-Rs. 25 lakhs price tag.
The upcoming diesel version of Mercedes-Benz B-Class hatch is anticipated to come assimilated with a 1.8 litre powertrain, which can produce a maximum output power close to 130 bhp. The German auto major retails the petrol B-Class via Completely Built Unit (CBU) route in the Indian auto market, at the moment. Hence, the diesel powered B-Class model is also expected arrive as completely assembled imported units in India. Apparently, Mercedes-Benz India has associated some huge expectations from its upcoming diesel powered B-Class model, on account of the healthy current market trend towards diesel-run vehicles in the country.
At present, Mercedes-Benz India offers its B-Class Sports Tourer premium hatchback in two petrol trim options- B180 and B180 Sports. The luxury hatch comes fitted with a 1.6 litre, four-cylinder, turbo petrol powertrain that churns out a peak output power and torque equation of 122 bhp and 200 Nm, respectively, without breaking into sweat. Further, the engine assembly of B-Class Sports Tourer is mated with a seven speed automatic transmission system.
Despite the impressive reception and sales of its new kid B-Class Sports Tourer in Indian auto market, the German auto major delivered a lacklustre performance in terms of sales during the 2012 calendar year. Last year, Mercedes-Benz was stripped off its position as the second best selling imported luxury car maker in India, by the hands of its fellow German player- Audi. At present, BMW is the undisputed champion and biggest selling premium car maker, closely followed by Audi and Mercedes-Benz in the country. Hence, Mercedes-Benz India will be looking to lure domestic car enthusiasts, by putting up an impressive line-up of upcoming models with the first being diesel B-Class, followed by A-Class hatch and CLA sedan.
