Mercedes B-ClassThe Mercedes B-Class first appeared in UK showrooms during the winter of 2005. There are 9 models - 6 petrol engines and 3 diesels. The B-Class is really A Bigger, Plusher A-Class. Sit in the back of the B-Class, stretch your legs out and youll appreciate that its comparable with the amount of room in the back of an S-Class limousine. Even with all the room, the B-Class breaks the tape at only 4,270mm long. To put that figure into perspective, a Ford Focus measures 4,342mm from bumper to bumper, making this Mercedes something of a packaging marvel. Clever touches include a front passenger seat that folds forward to permit long loads and slots next to the rear doors to allow seat belts to be stowed safely out of the way when loading and unloading. The centre rear seat back can also pop forward, offering an armrest with a neat pair of cupholders when travelling four-up. The driving position is undeniably sporty. The wheel sits almost vertical and your legs stretch forward into a deep footwell. Standard specification across the range includes air conditioning, a four-spoke steering wheel with multifunction buttons, an armrest between the front seats, electric windows and tinted glass, plus brushed aluminium trim on the fascia, transmission tunnel and door panels. The petrol line up opens with the 95bhp B150, then theres a 115bhp B170 and a punchy 136bhp B200. Mercedes even offer a 193bhp turbocharged version of this engine which will make 60mph in 7.2 seconds and run onto a top speed of 140mph. Most buyers will instead opt for the diesel-engined models and Mercedes have a pair of Euro IV compliant units, the entry-level being marked out by the109bhp B180 CDI and the premier diesel powerplant is that fitted to the 140bhp B200CDI. A manual transmission is the default gearbox but all models will be available with an optional Autotronic CVT gearbox. Its manual mode features seven gears although like a proper automatic, it has a torque converter. The B-Class handles neatly enough, with less body roll than you may expect for such a high-sided vehicle. The electro-mechanical power steering feels a little odd at first, but trust it and itll direct the cars nose accurately. The ESP stability control system can feel a little over zealous for real press-on driving but otherwise its fairly vice free. With a little more weight to carry around than the equivalent A-Class, the B-Class enjoys better front end traction, especially evident when packing one of the more powerful engines. FACTS AT A GLANCE CAR: Mercedes B-Class range For information on the history of Mercedes cars, visit the website: www.lapcr.com/mercedes_history_and_models |