The present Mercedes-Benz B-Class has experienced great success in the majority of markets it has been showcased in, having sold over 120,000 units in its first year, but the latest version due in 2011 is foreseen to sell in much higher quantities and will be out in the U.S. market for the first time. According to the reports, to intensify sales, the German carmaker is aiming to expand the range by putting in new variants to accompany the regular hatch: a latest coupe-cabrio, a sporty hatchback to compete with BMW’s 1-series line and more likely a four-door sedan with coupe styling.

One of the models that is set for production, however, is the hatchback seen in the spy photo testing in prototype form. Based on the photo, it maintains the boxy appearance of the present model, even though its side profile is similar to the newly released 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class. The total look will line up closely with 2009’s BlueZERO concept family. Its interior shows that Mercedes designers have chosen a steering column lever for selecting the gears and have adjusted the stereo and navigation screen further up on the dashboard compared to the earlier model.

Clients should anticipate a line of small displacement turbo engines and latest hybrid variants offering in the B-Class model, as well as a hydrogen fuel cell model. The latest 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class is the sportiest of the AMG variant as corroborated by the tuning division’s outgoing boss Volker Mornhinweg late last month. AMG presently offers V-8 engines but will build an exclusively tuned four-cylinder engine for the B-Class. The model will rival other automobile lines such as the Volkswagen Golf R32 and Audi S3. According to the reports there would be an array of performance improvements that would include new brakes, a sporty bodykit and a top of the line interior.

In the past, Mercedes-Benz reversed a plan to bring the present B-Class Stateside due to reservations that it would harm the brand’s exclusivity and the low dollar exchange rate would make the model much expensive. However, surprising strong sales of the Smart Fortwo minicar are bringing renewed interest in putting up the B-Class and also the A-Class up in the market, in North America.