Fletcher Jones Imports

Autocar is reporting new details on the next-generation 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The B-Class will be made from a new front-wheel drive platform, and will be made of a conventional unibody frame, making its less expensive than the current model's structure.

The platform will also spawn the next A-Class, as well as other vehicles including a compact SUV and a small sedan model.

As for the next B-Class, it will feature a series of power plants supplied by in-house engines for the upper range output offerings. Those smaller plants will come to include 1.2 liter, 1.4 liter and…

Renault and Mercedes-Benz are going to make beautiful engine noise and horsepower together. Renault will apparently make available its new 1.6 liter diesel power plant to Mercedes-Benz for the A and B-Class starting next year. That new 1.6 liter diesel comes with an output of 128 bhp.

Mercedes-Benz is sharing as well: by supplying Renault with a 2.0 liter gasoline unit, as well as granting access to its range of V6 and V8 engines.

Sharing of engines is part of a global automotive alliance agreement Daimler AG and Renault signed this year. This partnership also involves co-development…