Add Mercedes-Benz to the list of automakers hoping to cash in on the small-car boom: the automaker is planning on bringing its 2011 A- and B-class subcompacts to the U.S.

The decision to bring both cars Stateside is in stark contrast to Mercedes' previous decisions.  Although both cars were designed to meet North American crash standards, plans to launch the A- and B-class in the U.S. were abandoned in 2005.  The B-class, however, has been sold in Canada for more than three years.

Although both cars share the same platform and powertrain, the B-Class (pictured here in Michigan in early 2008), with a longer wheelbase and more interior space, may carry more appeal with American consumers. 

Should the new plan remain unchanged, Americans will be able to buy the next-generation form of the A- and B-class cars.  Like the current design, we're expecting the new models to remain overtly compact (the current B-class is only 14 feet long) and use small-displacement four-cylinders.

Source: Automotive News