Given the expansion of models Mercedes-Benz->ke187 is going through these days, the company just might run out of letters to name its models.
According to Auto Express, the German automaker is reportedly working on a baby crossover->ke288, which it will slot just below the recently-revealed GLA-Class. The name of the model is the X-Class, and judging by its nomenclature, we won't be surprised if Mercedes targets the young market for this baby crossover.
Besides, the CLA-Class->ke3130 needs a running mate, right? And what better model to do that than this reported X-Class.
On a more serious note, we don't mind having a new Merc to choose from. Not that we can afford each and every one of 'em, but in a market where its competitors are doing their own expansions, Mercedes would be a fool to think that it can sit on its laurels and let its existing line do the fighting for them.
If the BMWs->ke178 and Audis->ke14 of the world are busy lining up new models for its customers, there's no reason why Mercedes should't do the same. There's also some whispers that the X-Class isn't going to be just one model, but an entire range of entry-level models that will give birth to other variants in the future. Maybe an XLA, or an X AMG?
It's too early to say at this point, but if its the route Mercedes is choosing, we're not going to stand up against it.
Click past the jump to read about the 2015 Mercedes GLA-Class, Mercedes' smallest crossover SUV to date
The new GLA-Class follows suit in the new design language of some of Mercedes’ newer models, built in the same styling values of Progression and Tradition. What that means is when you’re looking at the GLA-Class, you might as well be looking into the future of what Mercedes SUVs are going to look like.
In addition to its modern, if not more pronounced looks, the GLA-Class also comes with a choice of engine options, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter, inline-four engine that will come with the GLA250, the only trim of the GLA-Class that will be available in the US.
With that engine, the compact crossover will produce 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds to go with a top speed of 145 mph.