New Mercedes Benz B-Class is termed as a Compact Sports Tourer

Mercedes Benz’s effort to transform the B-Class into a Compact Sports Tourer has resulted in a considerably efficient and agile but also comfortable and spacious car. Test drivers who put the car through its paces have called the car ‘Fantastically agile’. The design language of the car makes it look sporty due to its low ride height and the upright seating position supports its sports tourer dynamics. The car has an outstandingly low drag coefficient due to aerodynamic measures for air flow around the wheels, under body and the cooling system. 

The B-Class is one of the most spacious cars in its segment and packed with its many gizmos is one of the most well equipped too. Interiors of the new car will be top notch in its segment considering the use of high quality materials, precise workmanship and stylish details. Four separate optional packages which vary from sporty to classic (Chrome, Sports, Exclusive and Night packages) allow you to customise your B-Class according to your tastes. The dashboard can also be trimmed in ARTICO man made leather. 

The B-Class will come with two new engines and transmission systems. There is a four cylinder petrol engine that comes with the third generation Mercedes Benz direct injection system. The diesel four cylinder engine comes with the third generation common rail direct-injection system. The petrol unit is a 1.6 liter motor that can be ordered as the B 180 with 122 bhp or the B 200 with 156 bhp. The diesel is a 1.8 liter unit again can be ordered as the B 180 CDI with 109 bhp or the B 200 CDI with 136 bhp. 

As for transmissions there is a compact 7 speed dual clutch automatic with an electric oil pump for the start/stop system and a lightweight, low friction 6 speed manual for crisp and direct gear changes. 

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) has been upgraded along with a new four link rear suspension. A sport suspension is on offer on the Sport model line with sports dampers that feature amplitude selective damping and a Direct-Steer system. The elcetromechanical steering uses the hydraulic unit only while turning the wheel of the car, otherwise the steering is powered by electricity. This helps in reducing fuel consumption. 

The B-Class comes with segment leading safety features such as Mercedes Benz PRE-SAFE system with reversible belt tensioning which tightens seat belts and closes all windows and the sunroof when a crash is about to take place. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system alerts the distracted driver about obstacles on the road which the driver could be able to avoid. There are new pelvis airbags to protect the body of front passengers in the event of a crash and window airbags to prevent head injuries. Rear side airbags are an optional extra. The PRE-SAFE system also adjusts the memory seats to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraint systems in the even of a crash. 

The B-Class comes equipped with internet access with the COMAND Online Multimedia system which can be used to surf the internet. A Mercedes Benz app can be used by the driver to surf the net, check the weather forecast and download a destination route. 

The new Mercedes Benz B-Class will push the boundaries of what is technologically feasible for a compact car and in the process send its competition scrambling for ways to match its incredibly long features and options list.

Slideshow