In terms of both design and technology, the second generation of the B-Class car has heralded a new compact class era at Mercedes-Benz.
More than 350,000 of the sports tourer have been sold since the market launch in late 2011. Now the best-seller from Mercedes-Benz has undergone a major facelift including exterior and interior enhancements along with attractive, redefined design and equipment lines.
The breadth of choice is unique in this segment: three economical diesel models with consumption statistics ranging from 56.5 to 78.5 mpg, two efficient petrol engines at between 42.8 and 52.3 mpg and an alternative drive system (B-Class Electric Drive), as well as optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive. What is more, with a Cd value of less than 0.25 the sports tourer continues to be the role model for its class. Sales of the new B-Class commence on 12 September with deliveries in November. Prices start from £22,575.00 OTR for the B 180 manual.
The easiest way to recognise a facelifted B-Class with a petrol or diesel engine is from the front: a ew bumper, wide radiator trim with two louvres and now integral daytime running lamps in the headlamps give the vehicle a more organic and dynamic appearance. The rear bumper has also been modified and now features a contoured covering and an additional chrome trim strip. LED High Performance headlamps create a more striking look, both day and night (optional extra, not available for the B-Class Electric Drive). These increase safety at night due to their wide beam pattern and light of a colour similar to daylight. Bicolour tail lamps featuring LED technology provide emphasis and make the vehicle more visible.
A high-grade, functional interior underscores the B-Class’s premium quality claim. The facelift gives the vehicle a more exclusive, up-to-date feel and boosts the scope for individualisation. Mercedes-Benz has enhanced a number of high-quality details in the B-Class such as the large, free-standing head unit display, which is now larger, with a diagonal of up to 20.3 cm (8 inches), and the stylish dial layout for the instrument cluster. There is a choice of 12 colours for the ambient lighting, allowing different moods to be created.
KEYLESS-GO is new as an optional extra. This access and drive authorisation system with KEYLESS-GO starting function allows the vehicle to be opened, started and locked simply by carrying the electronic key with you.
In terms of efficiency, the new B-Class continues to set benchmarks with the best Cd value in its segment. The choice of efficient engines is extensive – four diesel engines, four petrol engines and two models with alternative drive systems. Also available are the B 180 and B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Editions.
Thanks to the new B 200 CDI 4MATIC, the pleasure of all-wheel drive and safety now start at around 130 g CO2/km instead of over 150 g CO2/km (B 220 4MATIC) as previously.
The B-Class Electric Drive uses the B-Class’s modular ENERGY SPACE body concept: The underbody houses the lithium-ion battery (B-Class Electric Drive). Due to this intelligent packaging method, the five-seater model has been able to retain the generously proportioned luggage compartment for which it is known.
