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Mercedes B-Class

Pros

• Spacious cabin
  
• Stand out safety features
  
• Good fuel economy
  
• Generous specifications

Cons

• Ride isn't as smooth as other cars in its class
  
• Gears can be clumsy at low speeds
  
• Not a stand out in the Mercedes Benz range
  
• Price

Description

While Mercedes are known for their slick designs, the new B Class has never been known as one of the most impressive designs. The new model, although with only minor changes is trying to change this. With some changes to the front bumpers and some subtle tweaking of air intakes and the driver light position, the car looks distinctively different, while still keeping the B Class charm.

While there have only been minor changes in comparison to main competitors such as the BMW i3 there is no denying it is still a good looking car and demands attention. With many customers looking for the small hatch size, Mercedes, BMW, Ford and Nissan are all competing against each other in this viable space, so it is more than just looks that make people purchase a car of this size.

For the Mercedes B Class, the range of turbo engines are a stand out in comparison to other similar cars. In petrol there is a 90kW/200Nm, 1.6litre for the B180. At the top of the range there is an impressive 155kW/350Nm 2.0-litre for the B250. The diesel is also equally impressive with a 130kW/350N, 2.1 litre B220. For a small car, it goes exceptionally well.

One of the biggest benefits noted by car commentators is the overseas natural gas version and electric drive of the B Class. These provide good alternatives for those looking to green the garage, or have a luxury car that has both power and fuel efficiency...two things that often don't go hand in hand.

Conclusion

In the smaller hatch market there is a far amount of competition. The biggest competitor and almost evenly priced, is the BMW i3. With its impressive design (many key commentators note it looks a lot better than the Mercedes as it uses futuristic with its carbon reinforced carbon fiber and aluminum construction) is doing well in sales.

Other smaller cars such as the Chevrolet Volt and Ford C-MAX Energy are both plug-in hybrids and appeal to the more savvy driver because of their lower costs and fuel efficiency.

Finally the Nissan Leaf, which is very affordable, but suffers from poor interior trims and noise, is still a competitor but in a different buyers market.

In summary, the Mercedes B Class is a luxury car of choice for many road users, although it has been struggling to keep up with BMW i3 sales, even though it has a longer range, it is still a car that is difficult to fault. If you look beyond the design, you will find a superior car that offers great handling and performance.