Mercedes-Benz B-Class overview – Automotive Weblog
We street check the stylish compact folks service that’s the Mercedes-Benz B-Class…
OK, it’s not in the identical league of revelations as ‘I’ve by no means seen Star Wars’, however – up and till just lately – I’ve by no means pushed a Mercedes-Benz B-Class.
Initially launched as a small MPV in 2005, the present third-generation model was launched in 2019, and it’s simply been handled to a mid-life facelift.
Extra of an replace than facelift, visually it’s very mild contact. Delicate styling modifications embody new LEDs entrance and rear, a revised entrance grille and bumper, plus a reworked rear diffuser.
Inside, the brand new B-Class has been handled to the newest dual-screen MBUX infotainment system with a digital driver’s show and central touchscreen (each 10.25-inch).
It additionally will get the improved “Hey Mercedes” voice management, so drivers can preserve their arms on the brand new flat-bottom steering wheel. And, apparently over time, it might probably even predict private habits because of synthetic intelligence. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are additionally commonplace.
The MBUX system is slick and updates the inside, whereas the elimination of the rotary controller within the centre console provides to the extra trendy, minimalist look.
Traditionalists can be happy to see that Mercedes has stored the three spherical turbine-look air vents under the centre touchscreen. Others would possibly assume they’re large and look dated alongside the cutting-edge infotainment system.
All of the petrol engines within the line-up now characteristic 48V mild-hybrid expertise. Mercedes says the system ensures a quieter begin than standard starter motors and permits ‘crusing’ with the combustion engine switched off throughout regular cruising.
Total, there’s a alternative of two four-cylinder engines – the B200 (petrol) and B200d (diesel).
That B200d is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel which develops 148bhp. It comes as commonplace with an eight-speed dual-clutch (DCT) computerized transmission.
With a prime pace of 136mph, it might probably speed up from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds, return as much as 55.4mpg, whereas CO2 emissions are as little as 133g/km.
I examined the B200 which incorporates a 1.3-litre petrol turbo with 160bhp (although it will get a small hybrid increase, including a short lived further 14bhp). It has a seven-speed DCT and energy can be by means of the entrance wheels.
It’s barely quicker to 62mph (8.2 seconds) and faster total (139mph), whereas gasoline financial system is as much as 46.3mpg and CO2 emissions are 136g/km.
Priced from £35,100, there are 5 trim ranges – Sport Govt, AMG Line Govt, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus, together with the restricted Unique Launch Version.
Driver help and security expertise has been up to date on the brand new B-Class. Necessities equivalent to computerized emergency braking (AEB), lane-keeping help, computerized headlights, pace signal recognition and cruise management are all commonplace throughout the vary.
Aside from the updates, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is way the identical as earlier than, which is not any dangerous factor.
There’s ample leg and headroom for 5 folks, whereas the seats are comfy. Total, the construct high quality is spectacular and there are many soft-touch surfaces up entrance.
It’s nice for households too, providing 440 litres of boot area (575 litres loaded to the roof). Fold the rear seats down and also you get a powerful 1,540 litres.
On the street, the B-Class affords good visibility, because of the raised driving place and enormous glass space.
The punchy B200 petrol engine is mostly as much as the job and refined for probably the most half, solely turning into vocal when pushed arduous.
There’s a alternative of driving modes (Eco, Consolation, Sport and Particular person), however Consolation is simply superb and most accurately fits the sensible character of the automotive.
With mild steering, it’s particularly simple to drive on the town, however it additionally cruises effectively on the motorway. For a comparatively tall automotive, it’s surprisingly competent on more difficult roads too, however then that misses the purpose of the B-Class, which is extra about carrying folks in consolation.
As for rivals, the B-Class’s most blatant one is the BMW 2 Collection Energetic Tourer, which can be supplied as a plug-in hybrid.
Verdict: The brand new Mercedes-Benz B-Class might not be the best automotive on the street, however it’s a cultured and smart household alternative providing consolation, security, practicality, good construct high quality and prime badge enchantment.
