Shanghai (ZXZC)- Beijing Benz is expected to locally produce the all-new Mercedes-Benz B-class sedan with a planned annual capacity of 40,000 units, according to local media. The MFA platform (Modular Front Architecture) is likely to be responsible for the new China-made model, which is said to carry a 1.33L turbocharged engine featuring less displacement and stronger power than the outgoing model.

The old imported A-class, the all-new locally-produced A-class and the existing imported B-class are priced from RMB219,800, RMB216,900 and RMB225,800 respectively. Taking those as reference, the price of the China-made B-class may start over RMB210,000, higher than the locally-produced A-class.

The all-new B-class available for markets outside China has a wheelbase of 2,729mm, 30mm longer than the existing model. It is predicted that the China-made all-new B-class will carry the same engine as that of the A-class—a 1.33L turbocharged engine. There are two variants for the engine based on power outputs, which can churn out 120kW and 100kW and generate peak torque of 250N·m and 200N·m respectively. Mated to the engine should be a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

The all-new China-made B-class reportedly will retain the design language used in the existing model. It will offer the double-banner-shaped and single-banner-shaped intake grille as optional choice. The sleek design is employed in the headlights that are integrated with two pieces of LED daytime running lights. The dual waistlines at the body sides are quite straight and flat. Several types of rims in sizes from 16 inches to 19 inches may be offered. At the rear end, there are slim taillights along with an exhaust layout with a single exhaust pipe on each side.