Mercedes-Benz B200 Reviews

From time to time you may have read my mutterings that fashion takes precedence over function in cars far too often. Which is why I admire the Mercedes-Benz B-Class so much, it's a major case of function pushing fashion aside. It is immensely practical, with a spacious interior (you need a large Mercedes S-Class to get more rear legroom), a tall seating position that provides good visibility, and variable luggage space that can be tailored in many ways.Mercedes-Benz B-Class is smaller on the outside than most compact SUVs so easier and safer to drive, as well as being lighter and therefore more economical and cleaner.Access to the rear seats through wide opening doors is excellent. As befits any mover, the Merc has numerous stowage areas including a handy centre console and sensible door pockets.The B-Class was launched in Australia in May 2005. Some are getting on in years, but with good maintenance and sensible driving should still have plenty of life left in them. As befits such a sensible vehicle it remained on sale for almost seven years, albeit with upgrades and a mild facelift until April 2012 when an all-new model was launched.Petrol, turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel engines are on offer, with the turbo-petrol units providing performance that can almost be called sporting in the latest, 2012, generation.There's a solid, quiet, refined feel in the Benz B-Class that belies it size. It's not quite as quiet and smooth to ride in as the larger Merc sedans, but it comes impressively close.Handling is pretty good for a mid-sized front-wheel-drive car, with decent balance, and minimal understeer at normal speeds. Exceed sensible cornering efforts and it remains controllable, with electronic aids moving in to help when required.These small Benzes aren't cheap in absolute terms, but you do get some excellent engineering and good build quality. Many owners are happy to pay thousands extra so they can be seen sitting behind that famed three-pointed star.Mercedes-Benz is well represented in almost all areas of areas of Australia, even in the far outback as diesel Mercedes cars have been a favourite with Aussie farmers for decades.Many owners get all their work done at Mercedes-Benz dealerships. These cars generally fetch higher prices than ones serviced elsewhere. You may pay more in the first place, but recoup your cash when it comes time to trade-in time.This isn't really the sort of car you should attempt to work on yourself, though a good home handyperson can do some of the routine service work.A correctly driven and maintained Mercedes B-Class should have plenty of life left in it, but it's still best to have one inspected by a Mercedes mechanic.If you find what appears to have been major repairs to the body either pass it up altogether or book it in for an after-crash inspection at a reputable panel repairer.Check the interior, particularly the rear seats and the luggage area for signs of rough and ready use.Before going for your test drive try and arrange for the engine to be completely cold, after an overnight stop is ideal. Make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly within a few seconds of kicking over.Check the engine never shows any signs of hesitation to your push on the throttle pedal. Also, that it pulls easily and strongly even on hills and with a load on board.

The Mercedes B-Class is an exceptionally practical vehicle built on a stretched version of the Mercedes A-Class platform. The release of an all-new model in March 2012 has generated added interest to those on the used-car market.A taller than average five-door hatchback, the B-Class has a huge amount of interior space, with almost as much legroom in the rear as in the big S-Class Mercedes. The B-Class’s front seats are large and well shaped and provide good support. There's plenty of space for two big Aussie males in the rear and three children will have stretch out room.The boot is bigger and more useable than that of many much larger cars. Not only is it huge, the luggage area is very versatile, and you can even create an almost van-like interior by removing every seat but the driver’s. The removable seats are an extra-cost option so may not be fitted to the one you’re examining.We wouldn’t go as far as to call the B-Class a ‘sports tourer’, as Mercedes has tagged it at times, but it does have a reasonably sleek style in its class.Petrol, turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel engines are all on offer, with the turbo-petrol units providing performance that can be called sporting without using too much imagination.The manual gearbox comes as a five or six-speed unit, but isn’t particularly common. Mercedes also gives you the choice of a continuously variable transmission that has seven manually-selectable preset ratios for use in specific driving conditions.There's a solid, quiet, refined feel in the new Benz B-Class that belies it size. It’s not quite as quiet and smooth to ride in as the larger Merc sedans, but it comes impressively close.Handling in the B-Class is very good for a mid-sized front-wheel-drive car, with decent balance, and minimal understeer at normal speeds. Backed up by Mercedes' inbuilt electronic stability program, this is one of the safest cars in its class size.These aren't cheap cars in absolute terms, but you do get some excellent engineering and there are a host of luxury and safety features. Of course, you do pay several thousand extra dollars for the privilege of sitting behind that three-pointed star, but many think it’s worth the money.Mercedes-Benz is well represented in almost all areas of areas of Australia, even in the far outback as diesel Mercedes have been a favourite with Aussie farmers for generations.This isn’t really the sort of car you should attempt to work on yourself, though a good home handyperson can do some of the routine service work. It’s common for owners to get all their work done at authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships and these cars generally fetch higher prices than cars serviced elsewhere. You may pay more in the first place, but recoup your cash when it comes time to trade in your ‘serviced by Mercedes’ car.WHAT TO LOOK FORA correctly driven and maintained Mercedes B-Class is unlikely to have any faults, but it’s still best to have one inspected by a senior engineer at your motoring club.Take a good walk around the car checking for signs of damage to the bumper corners, the wheel rims (the front left is the one that generally suffers at the hands of poor parkers), and the door panels at their widest sections.If you find what appears to have been major repairs to the body either pass it up altogether or book it in for an after-crash inspection at a reputable panel repairer.Check the interior, particularly the rear seats and the boot for evidence of harsh use.Before going for your test drive try and arrange for the engine to be completely cold, after an overnight stop is ideal. Make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly within a few seconds of kicking over.Check the engine pulls easily and strongly even on hills and with a load on board. And that it never shows any signs of hesitation.CAR BUYING TIPCars with prestigious badges can be driven just as badly as those from the lowliest on the image stakes. Don’t fall for the fancy badge, have it fully inspected.

Generation two of the practical Mercedes-Benz B-Class compact people mover has arrived.It's the first Benz to feature a new platform that will spawn five new small cars for the German manufacturer including the eagerly awaited new A-Class. The five seat B-Class is a popular conveyance in Australia and is the only premium compact people mover that's not SUV-based.It sells against a slew of competitors but none is as adept at its task as the new B-Class - moving people safely, efficiently and comfortably.PRICE CUTBetter yet, Benz has been able to slice more than $5000 off the price of the entry level B180 BlueEfficiency turbo petrol model that now starts at $38,950. And far from being a boned-out kick off model, the B180 is crammed with standard features including a seven-speed dual clutch manumatic transmission (with paddle shift), nine air bags, Bluetooth phone and audio, climate control and cruise - to name just a few.It's a clean sheet new model from Benz and ushers in a look that will permeate most the company's new small cars.THE LINEUPThree models are available, B180 and B200 turbo petrol and the B200 CDi turbodiesel. Benz offers six options packs with the new B but has been able to limit the price to a maximum of $2990. Some packs cost $1400. Prices range up to $43,950 for the 200CDi.UNDER THE BONNETThese are new four-pot, direct injection engines of 1.6-litres capacity in the petrols and 1.8-litres in the diesel. The 7G-DCT manumatic is the only transmission offered and drive goes through the front wheels.Power and torque ratings are 90kW/200Nm, 115kW/250Nm and 100kW/300Nm in ascending order ending with the diesel. The petrols deliver maximum torque at just 1250rpm which goes some of the way to explaining their impressive drive feel. Fuel economy from both petrols is 6.1-litres/100km with an incredible 4.7 from the diesel.SAFETYFive stars of course but more importantly, the new B-Class scores a full suite of active and passive safety kit like Pre-Safe crash preparation, collision prevention assist, attention assist, active park assist and nine air bags. All models have rear park sensors. INSIDEThis is our first look at the new generation interior styling and it gets a big tick.The look is  dominated by large vent surrounds and a nicely curving dash with a large centred info screen. The new wheel looks sporty and there are new switches and control wands on the steering column.The seats are large and comfortable, a little smaller in the back and there's plenty of load space expandable with folded rear seats. Ride height is lower than before as is seat height. The audio is good even in the base model and  the overall feel inside B-Class is positive.ON THE ROADWe sampled all three variants and realistically, all you need is the B180. It goes sweetly - aided by that brilliant dual clutch transmission, uses minimal fuel and apart from manual seats, misses out on precious little compared with the other two. The 16-inch wheels are infact a better proposition for rough and coarse chip roads.Performance is not lacking in any model with the edge going to the diesel which has excellent acceleration and roll-on performance. The ride is supple but controlled - a good compromise for average driving conditions with the family aboard.VERDICTClassy conveyance for the family, safe, stylish, well priced and refreshingly well specified.2012 Mercedes-Benz B-ClassPrice: From $38,950 (B180) to $43,950 (B200, B200 CDI) plus on-road costsEngines: 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol or 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder dieselTransmission: Seven-speed double-clutch automatic, front-wheel driveOutputs: 90kW at 5000rpm and 200Nm at 1250rpm (B180); 115kW at 5300rpm and 250Nm at 1250rpm (B200); 100kW at 3600rpm and 300Nm at 1600rpm (B200 CDI)Body: Small hatchback

This is the sort of car most people should be driving. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is immensely practical, with a spaciou interior (you need a large Mercedes S-Class to get more rear legroom, and then only just), a tall seating position to provide good visibility and variable luggage space that can be tailored in many ways. Yet the Benz B-Class is too often overlooked by buyers caught up in the macho craze that sees SUVs increasingly dominating the car market.The B-Class is smaller on the outside than most compact SUVs, yet has more space inside, is easier and safer to drive and, best of all, is lighter and therefore more economical and kinder to the air we breathe.Mercedes-Benz Australia would like to see sales climb significantly for all of the above reasons.DESIGNThe local Benz branch will benefit from the complete redesign of the new-generation B-Class. It has more style than before - just look at that sensational sweep up of the lower style line on the doors and the way the D-pillars taper downwards to take the visual bulk out of them. Lowering the roof by a significant 47 millimetres hasn’t affected headroom as the floor has been dropped by more than the roof.That’s because the original Mercedes B-Class was an extension of the A-Class and both were designed to accept a future power train using electricity produced from hydrogen by fuel cells. That didn’t happen - though we did take part in an experimental around the world run when the hydrogen powered vehicles visited Australia midway through 2011.Refinement of fuel cell design in the intervening years mean that less underfloor space is now required, so what Mercedes-Benz considers to be the powerplants of the future can be installed in today’s B-Class. The lower position of the seats in the new B-Class hasn’t adversely affected the ease of sliding in and out of them, an important factor for the ageing baby boomers. Boomers who will love to be sitting behind the Mercedes three-pointed star, love the sensible design and, best of all, will find the B-Class even more affordable than the superseded model – because the price list begins at an impressively low $38,950 plus on-road costs. ENGINE AND MECHANICAL Power is provided by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in two stages of tune - 90 kW of power and 200 Nm of torque; and 115 kW / 250 Nm. Strong torque at low revs is a big feature of all the engines and we found them happy to hold onto high gears in the interests of lower consumption and emissions. There’s also a turbo-diesel option by way of a 1.8-litre unit with 100 kW and 300 Newton metres. If you’re considering the 90 kW petrol engine may we suggest you load it up with passengers and take it onto some hilly roads? We feel it has enough power, but there’s not a lot to spare. Our favourite powerplant during our introductory drives was the turbo-diesel. All three engines run through a double-clutch, seven-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels. We found it smooth and easy at all speeds. DRIVING The driving position is more ergonomic than in the old B-Class, which had a steering wheel that was rather too vertical for our tastes. We found the seats comfortable and supportive in the 300+ kilometre drive program at the launch of the vehicle in Australia.Comfort is everything you would expect from an upmarket German car and will prove a big selling feature. As befits a compact people mover there are numerous stowage areas including a handy centre console and sensible door pockets. Access to the rear seats through wide opening doors is excellent and there’s the ability to stretch your legs out even if those in the front are claiming lots of space. It’s great to have limo-like space in car that’s simple to drive and easy to park. Noise levels are generally well isolated, but Australian coarse-chip surfaces did create more noise than we expected. Handling is neat and tidy and there’s no real sensation that you are in a front-drive family wagon. The full suite of electronic stability aids will assist if traction looks like slipping.If something still goes wrong Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-safe system will do everything it can to minimise the effects of the crash. Finally, no fewer than nine airbags will do what they can to cushion the occupants. (There are two curtain airbags on each side due to the extended interior, hence the larger than normal number of ‘bags.) VERDICT The all-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class is an immensely practical family car that will appeal to a lot of different buyer groups. The outgoing model sold moderately well, but much bigger things are expected from this all-new one. It’s offered in several models, each with a number of option packages. Rather than crowd way too much information into this review may we suggest you call into your local dealer to look at the permutations on offer. This B-Class is only the start of a suite of all-new models based on the same platform; an A-Class that’s far most stylish than its predecessors is next, with a coupe and small SUV in the pipeline. And a secret new model is being hinted at.The complete 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class range is:B 180 BlueEfficiency 1.6-litre petrol five-door hatch: $38,950B 200 BlueEfficiency 1.6-litre petrol five-door hatch: $43,950B 200 CDI BlueEfficiency 1.8-litre turbo-diesel five-door hatch: $43,950Mercedes-Benz B-Class Price: from $38,950Engine: 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine; 90kW/200Nm. 1.8 litre turbo-diesel 100kW/300NmPerformance: 0-100km/h time is 10.4 seconds.Transmission: 7 speed automated manual, 6 speed manualEconomy: 6.1 litres/100km using 95RON fuel. 5.8 litres/100km diesel.

Buying a new Mercedes-Benz badge for Mazda prices is a reality with the launch of the Mercedes B-Class. The five-door hatch brings a new level of safety and sophistication to the small vehicle segment. The question now is how many people will pay range-topping Asian car prices for an entry level Merc.  The base B-Class is $38,950 plus on-road costs. That makes it cheaper than Mazda's range-topping petrol CX-5, the Grand Touring, which comes in at $43,200. The CX-5 is the most car-like of the compact SUVs and a realistic rival for the Merc.The B-Class is a compact people and cargo carrier with no direct rivals in Australia, meaning it will attract buyers from both the small SUV and small car ranks - at least until a genuine B-Class SUV arrives late next year.The all-wheel drive Mazda rides higher than the Merc but it also represents the latest technology from Japan. The 2.0-litre "Skyactiv-G" engine is comparable in terms of power output and the interior features are classy but Mazda can't match Mercedes in the safety stakes.Mercedes is counting on that fact - and the lure of the three-pointed star - to sign-up empty nesters, middle-class families and Gen X-ers who are climbing the corporate ladder.FEATURES Buy a and standard gear includes a powered driver's seat, adaptive xenon headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, a 10-speaker Bose sound system and 19-inch rims. Opt for the B-Class and the wheels drop back to 16 inches, muscles and not motors move the front seats and six speakers are the default setting. The flip side is a bigger satnav display with hi-res graphics set in a piano-black surround that looks like a scaled-down iPad.The dash itself has air vents borrowed from the $470,000 SLS supercar and the steering wheel is straight out of the $160,000 CLS parts bin. The seats are more comfortable and there's parking assistance software to manoeuvre into those tight spaces. Both models have enough rear leg and head room to comfortably guard basketballers, though the Mazda holds a slight edge here.COST OF OWNERSHIPThe big issue when buying your first prestige car is whether you can then afford to drive it. Legend has it that running a European-built car costs more than a comparable Japanese or South Korean vehicle. Like most legends, there's some historical truth to the tale but the European carmakers have tried hard to extend service intervals and make their vehicles the most fuel-efficient on the road.That's why the intervals on the Merc are now out to 25,000km or 12 months. That compares with 10,000km/six months before servicing is due on the Mazda range. In theory, then, the Merc can cost twice as much to service and, given those services will happen half as often, owners will be no worse off over the course of a year. The battle at the pump is just as close with both vehicles using features such as idle stop/start to improve efficiency. The official fuel use for the 90kW/200Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the B-Class is 6.1 litres/100km using 95RON fuel.The Mazda CX-5's 2.0-litre engine uses 6.4 litres of 91RON fuel to cover the same ground on the front-wheel drive models, or 6.9 litres when matched to AWD. Assuming annual travel of 15,000km, 95RON petrol to be $1.60 and 91RON at $1.50, the B-Class will cost $1464 to fuel; the slug on the CX-5 will be $1440 for the FWD model or $1552 for the AWD.SAFETYIf keeping the family safe is a priority, the B-Class will be a no-brainer. Collision-avoidance alert and "Pre-Safe" are included in the starting price. The first will sound an alarm and pre-arm the brakes if the sensors detect the car is about to rear-end another vehicle; the second system tensions the seatbelts and closes the windows if the G-forces are high enough to convince the software a crash is imminent.Dip in to the options and the B-Class can have a safety suite to rival any car in the Mercedes range, be it adaptive cruise control and headlights, blind spot warning or software to keep the car in its lane. There are nine airbags on the Merc against six in the Mazda and both vehicles have the latest versions of stability and traction control software. The Mazda also has a reversing camera across the range, while it's an option on the B-BlassOPTIONSImitation is the greatest form of flattery and Mazda has taken a leaf from the Mercedes' manual to option software-based safety improvements as part of packaged upgrades. The "tech pack" is for now only sold with the Grand Touring model.The $1990 spend adds blind spot and lane departure warning systems and a headlight high beam control system that automatically dims the light for approaching drivers. Mercedes has six options packages for the B-Class. Load a top-spec model up with them all and the cost can top $60,000. Individually the prices run from $1490-$2990. Two of the more useful are the Comand pack at $2990 for a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with 10GB hard drive, a seven-inch satnav screen and reversing camera, and the Driving Assistance pack that adds lane departure and blind spot warning systems along with adaptive cruise control for $2490.DRIVINGIf the Merc earns an A for packaging, the drive is a definite B. Efficiency ahead of excitement is the motto here and the B Class feels underpowered with a chassis that can unquestionably cope with a lot more ground. And it will need to, with four more variants to be spun off the same MFA (modular front architecture) platform in the next few years, including a youth-focused A-Class range topped by a 200kW AMG model. The seven-speed automated manual transmission is so slick that the occasional glitch - it can hunt for a gear when accelerating from a near stop - really stands out. Thankfully, it doesn't occur in stop-start traffic, so most owners won't notice it. The run-flat rubber moans a bit on coarse chip surfaces but it isn't horrible and is noticeable mainly because there is zero wind noise off the bodywork at legal highway speeds. The steering has been dialled-in for families - it is light and precise without giving a huge amount of feedback. The power figures mightn't be huge but base engine is more than capable of lugging four adults, if not at breakneck speed.Claimed 0-100km/h time is 10.4 seconds, but that drops by two seconds if buyers part with another $4000 to buy the B200 petrol model with 115kW/250Nm yet still the same 6.1L/100km fuel use. The diesel engine's 300Nm of torque and 4.7L/100km fuel use  make it the pick of the litter if the B is going to cover a lot of kays.VERDICTThe last B-Class led the compact prestige segment and this is a better car in every area for less cash.  It is a hugely practical load lugger and Mercedes is already predicting short-term supply problems as it struggles to satisfy global demand.PAYING A PREMIUMAll three major prestige brands are moving to claim a bigger share of the small car market. Audi has its A3 hatch and just launched Q3 SUV, BMW has the 1 Series and X1 crossover and Mercedes has the B-Class.Merc won the sales race in this segment last year, but a two-month gap between the old model and the arrival of this one means the company will struggle to stay on top again in 2012, despite predicting at last 2500 sales. Audi's A3 starts at $41,200 while BMW's base price for a 1 Series is $39,593.Mercedes-Benz B-Class Price: from $38,950Engine: 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine. 90kW/200NmPerformance: 0-100km/h time is 10.4 seconds.Transmission: 7 speeds automated manual Economy: 6.1 litres/100km using 95RON fuel.

If the Mercedes-Benz A-Class suited young singles and couples without kids starting out in life along with older couples at the other end of the journey whose kids had fled the nest, the B-Class was the car for couples in the midst of family life.The B-Class was a logical extension of the A-Class concept, a larger version of the small peoplemover capable of hauling a tribe of kids to school, sports days or wherever they need to go.Outwardly it looked like an A-Class, there was the same upright stance, the same sloping front, and the same sweeping roof, but it was longer. That extra length was used to create a roomy and versatile interior that was perfect for its intended use.At launch there were two models, the B200 and the B200 Turbo, but they were joined a few months later by the B180 diesel. All were five-door, front-wheel drive hatches cum wagons capable of accommodating five adults and packed with features and safety equipment. Mercedes offered a choice of two 2.0-litre petrol engines, one of them turbocharged for extra zip, and a frugal 2.0-litre turbodiesel.All engines could be had with a Continuously Variable Transmission, CVT, which was the auto choice, or that could be with either five or six-speed manuals. The manual 'boxes were generally praised for the their ease of use, but the CVT copped some flak for being sluggish and unresponsive.On the road the B-Class demonstrated good grip and nice chassis balance, but for a more sporty drive there was a sports suspension package available as well. All models were well equipped with all the standard features wanted in a car today, including air, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, cloth trim, fog lamps, alloy wheels, central locking and CD sound.IN THE SHOPAnyone buying a Mercedes-Benz needs to do so in full knowledge that servicing and parts come at a premium, which makes it important to seek out a specialist who can service your car, and source parts, at a more economical rate. When checking a car prior to purchase test all the gadgets to make sure they work, fixing them later can cost a motza. If you're unsure get a mechanic to help you.Check for a service record, as like all engines, Mercedes-Benz powerplants suffer when forced to run on dirty oil. Also check for panel damage, particularly around the front, which is hard to see and can make it hard to judge when parking. Also check the interior for the damage that can naturally occur when transporting kids.IN A CRASHFive stars from ANCAP say it all. The B-Class is well geared for a   crash with front, side and curtain airbags, plus ABS brakes and ESP stability control.UNDER THE PUMPFor economy the diesel delivers to the tune of 6.2 L/100 km on   average and the pick of the B-Class bunch. The petrol engines deliver 7.2 L/100 km (non-turbo) and 7.9 L/100 km (turbo), and what's more 'Benz says they can handle E10.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $47,400 to $51,400Engines: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, 80 kW/250 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 100 kW/185 Nm; 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, 142 kW/280 NmTransmissions: CVT auto, 6-speed manual, 5-speed manualEconomy: 6.2 L/100 km (B180 CDI), 7.2 L/100 km (B200), 7.9 L/100 km (B200 Turbo)Body: 5-door hatchbackVariants: B180 CDI, B200, B200 TurboSafety: 5-star ANCAP

The smallest of the Benz-badged cars is the A-Class and the B is not a massive step up in size, but it's enough to offer that little bit of extra interior space.We're in the B200, which has just been facelifted, offering a re-sculpted bonnet, radiator and altered headlights, new-look mirrors and alloy wheels, but it's a blink-and-miss job.Whereas most of the other Mercedes driven recently require a descent to enter, you step into the B-Class, which Benz rather optimistically markets as a `Sports Tourer’.It's an upright driving position, but despite being a small car it's easy enough to get settled behind the reach'n'rake adjustable wheel.Thankfully, the B-Class hasn't adopted the ridiculous stalk-control for transmission that has infiltrated the S and M-Class cars — a conventional transmission selector for the CVT and a normal handbrake are welcome.Some might miss the extra width of a larger car, but it wasn't a serious issue for us.At 190-odd cm I found a workable driving position, and slipping into the back seat I could sit behind someone of similar stature, which is something not feasible in some larger vehicles.Four adults would be the B200's maximum number of occupants, but they could travel with a surprising amount of room given the car's relatively small coverage of the road.The test car was also fitted with Benz's Metro package option, which adds the continuously variable automatic transmission, the Active Parking Assist parking guidance system (standard in Turbo model) and a 12-volt socket in boot for $4160.Why anyone would need an electronic parking system for such a little car is beyond me — some of the other large vehicles already endowed with the system require it but the little Benz is a doddle to park.This is a town car and it has the skills for it — the engine has decent outputs and could be considered almost peppy, but the edge is taken from it by the CVT, which sometimes feels as though it takes a long time to hook up under full throttle.Forward progress is actually deceptive, particularly on part throttle take-offs — it's no autobahn-stormer — but it's more than adequate for metropolitan work.It will corner as well, but don't expect anything other than a bit of understeer, some stability control warning light flashes and a fair bit of leaning — brisk but civilised pace is best.The test car also had the $5070 Luxury package, which upgrades the airconditioning to dual-zone climate control, adds full-leather trim, myrtle wood/aluminium highlights interior trim, chrome exhaust tailpipe tips, body-coloured door handles, mirrors and side skirts.The infotainment system has an integrated 6CD changer, Bluetooth connectivity and an MP3 facility buried right at the back of the glovebox (which wasn't illuminated due to a faulty light).Both packs quickly shift the B200 upwards by almost $10,000 to just over $55,000.Of course, even the little Mercedes-Benz models have a safety list that compensates to some extent for the price — the B-Class has (now non-switchable) stability control, with front, side and curtain airbags. There's even flashing brake lights (in an emergency stop) as standard, a crash-responsive emergency interior lighting among the standard safety fare.Those who stick with the manual gearbox will enjoy the automatic hill-start assist.The German car maker is also boasting improved fuel use up to seven percent, with an official claim of 7.4 litres per 100km for the two-litre four-cylinder when working with the CVT.After a week in the Carsguide garage the trip computer was showing 9.5 litres per 100km of predominantly metropolitan running, which would suggest a range of just under 600km from the 54-litre tank.As commuter cars go the B-Class was a pleasant surprise in many respects — a decent ride without wallowing through corners, adequate interior room and good safety features. SnapshotMercedes-Benz B-Class Price: from $46,200.Engine: two-litre SOHC 8-valve four-cylinder.Transmission: five-speed manual, optional CVT fitted, front-wheel drive.Power: 100kW @ 5750rpm.Torque: 185Nm between 3500 & 4000rpm.Performance: 0-100km/h 10.2 seconds. Top speed 190km/h (governed).Economy: 7.4litres/100km, on test 9.5litres/100km, tank 54litres.Emissions: 176g/km. 

Upgrades include some exterior visual tweaks to freshen the A-Class and B-Class, revised interiors and the addition of a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel in the A-Class.The A180 CDI costs $39,990 and is available with either a six-speed manual or CVT automatic.For the first time an active parking assist reversing system is also available in the both the A and B Class.The system is $4680 option on the A170 and A 180 CDI as part of a `metro' pack that includes CVT automatic, cruise control and 12-volt socket in the luggage compartment.The system is standard on the A200 three and five-door and turbo.On the B Class the same system costs $4160 on the B180 CDI and B200 as part of the same option pack but comes standard on the B200 turbo.The parking system uses ultrasonic sensors to identify suitable parking spaces and then automatically guides the car into the space.It is similar to that available in some Volkswagen models.Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman, David McCarthy, expects a strong take up of the new parking system as well as the new turbo-diesel in the A-Class.“We think the A180 CDI will attract more people to the brand,” he says.Both A and B-Class sales have dipped this year by more than 30 per cent in the lead up to arrival of the newer models.Although the C-Class remains the volume Mercedes seller here, McCarthy says he expects both the A and B to lift volumes, particularly with the availability of the turbo-diesel in the A-Class.He believes the A180 CDI will at more than 300 sales to a yearly sales expectation of about 1000 A-Classes.The new 80kW/250Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel A-Class is the sixth model in the brand's entry lineup and shares its engine with the B-Class.In the A180 CDi it hits 100km/h in 10.8 seconds and delivers peak power at 4200 revs and peak torque between 1600 and 2600 revs.The frugal diesel has a combined fuel economy figure of 5.2 litres/100km.Like all A-Class models, the A180 CDI boasts a comprehensive safety story with electronic stability control, anti-skid brakes, brake assist, acceleration skid control, eight airbags, and a full-sized spare wheel.Comfort features include climate control air conditioning, multi-function steering wheel and display, AUDIO 20 sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and a split-fold rear seat.Moving up a notch, the B-Class gains minor cosmetic updates like its smaller brother, from the bumpers and headlights to the interior seat trim and upgraded audio systems.The front bumper gets a larger air intake and more aggressive treatment.The visual upgrades also include body coloured exterior mirrors, door hands and lower side skirts on all models.Inside, the B-Class, already well known for its roomy interior gets new materials with brushed aluminium highlights on the dashboard.A reach adjustable steering and hill-start assist also make an appearance.In common with both the A and B are new flashing brake lights that activate if the driver hits the brakes in an emergency when travelling more than 50km/h.In the B-Class the hazard warning lights also come on in emergency braking manoeuvres above 70km/h.Prices for both A and B have risen slightly with the equipment upgrades and fresher looks.The A-Class is up between $500 and $800 depending on the model and the B-Class has risen $400 across the board.The entry 1.7-litre A170 coupe costs $35,500, rising to $49,500 for the top-range A200 turbo.ON THE ROADWe've never been a huge fan of the A-Class and the changes to the latest model have only reinforced this thinking.That said, there are plenty of pluses.It's a great commuter car, nippy around town, frugal and easy to park.However, at higher speeds on the highway the car's short wheelbase and upright stance shows up some shortcomings that are inherent with building a car like the A-Class.The little hatch can be buffeted by cross-winds and road noise intrudes rather too much for a Mercedes, even if it's an entry Merc.The ride is also geared to comfort rather than handling but it must be remembered that this is not a sportscar.Although the driving position is good, with a broad panorama of the road, the electro-mechanical power steering is numb and feels disconnected to the road.However, on the plus side, the A-Class has impeccable safety credentials with a five-star crash rating and impressive arsenal of active and passive safety gear.It is well build and provides a feeling of being carved from stone while the interior ambience is appropriate to the brand.The new 80kW 2.0-litre turbo-diesel works well in the A-Class. It provides plenty of low and mid-range response and a combined fuel figure of 5.2 litres/100km.As peak torque of 250Nm is delivered from 1600 revs the little hatch is reasonably perky off the mark and can keep up with freeway traffic.The CVT auto works well with the diesel too, providing just the right response at any speed.Given the price points of the range the A-Class makes a reasonably alternative.But there are still many other small European hatches that deliver more driver involvement, equally impressive amounts of room and also have that crucial Euro badge to impress the neighbours. 

The B200 is part of a range that Mercedes Benz hope will fill the role of the classic all-rounder.From school-run taxi to prestigious business vehicle, the German carmaker says the possibilities for the car are endless.EXTERIORThe unique feature of the B-Class exterior design is its wedge-shaped front section and dominant grill. The long, sweeping arched roof line, large sloping windscreen, flared wheel arches housing 16 inch alloys, and short overhangs, create the sporty look that wasn’t seen as much in earlier versions.The wider track and longer wheel base aim to give the new B-Class a sleeker, more aerodynamic appearance.INTERIORWith a simple and fresh interior in the B200, it carries on the modern approach Mercedes-Benz is taking into the future with their latest range of vehicles.There is potential for plenty of space with a folding rear seat with a 1/3:2/3 split and a 544 litre boot. Add to that driver and passenger seat storage boxes plus front and rear cup holders.The dash is intuitive and controls a range of features including a Harman/Kardon LOGIC7® surround sound system with six disc CD changer and a Thermatic climate control system.The multi-function steering wheel controls the trip computer, vehicle settings, audio, optional UHI telephone preparation and cruise control with Speedtronic variable speed limiter.DRIVETRAINSPowering the B200 is a 100kW, two litre, in-line four-cylinder petrol engine, with a decent 185 Nm. A five speed manual gets power to the wheels.The turbo variant adds another 42kW with 280 Nm and comes as a six speed manual or with the optional Autotronic CVT system.SAFETY Acceleration Skid Control, Brake Assist, ESP, ABS and a full airbag package comes as standard in the B200.Mercedes Benz’s Steer Control helps the driver to avoid a collision by identifying potentially hazardous situations. When swerving, the system helps to stabilise the vehicle by administering additional force on the steering wheel.PRICINGThe standard B200 starts at $45, 500 and you can get the Turbo version from $52, 100.DRIVINGPincott saysThe B-Class could be a handy little vehicle for buyers who don’t want a SUV or people carrier, but occasionally need something with more luggage space than a sedan boot.The four-cylinder engine is up to most tasks, but - in the absence of a load of cargo - we stacked it with four large adults and found it was straining to do the job on steep hills. If you’re the kind to lose patience with this, better head for the Turbo version with its extra power and torque.Mercedes calls the B-Class a compact sport tourer, but there’s little sporty about it. However, it’s not unpleasant to drive, is quiet and economical and generally handles well. It’s simply that it doesn’t inspire any kind of affection.VERDICT: 6.7/10Halligan saysWhen I told my wife I was testing a B-Class Merc, she asked "is that that ugly one". I didn't know if she thought it was the A or the B but I was confidently able to respond simply with "yes".But looks aside, it was nice and it was good. Which is basically the description you would give to the plain but academically talented girl in the front row of your class that struggles to find friends.It’s smooth, it’s comfortable, it’s quiet. It’s a little under powered but not unsafely so. It's good at what it does, but then again the Kia Rondo we tested a couple of weeks ago didn't feel much different.Perhaps the Merc’s steering wheel did - it was leather - but the dynamics where quite close. The Kia also has a neat folding third row of seats which the B-Class doesn't and I suspect would be important for a lot of people buying into this class of vehicle.The kids where certainly ho-hum about it.. My wife thought it was nice and not half as ugly in Metallic Burgundy as the white one she’d previously seen. She actually liked it, she liked the Rondo too. I asked which she preferred to which she replied, what's the price difference? I told her the prices and her answer was the Kia.We’re both Merc fans, but these days a badge is no longer enough. Things have changed. The gap between the Merc and other cheaper brands in this sector is not wide enough.Buy the Rondo and push Merc back out of this sector.

Always, something seems to be happening — from an all-new flagship to bigger and bolder engines in existing cars.The new S-Class has just arrived, Benz is pushing diesels, the crossover R-Class will reach Australia later in the year, and we can look forward to 6.3-litre V8 engines in the coming cars.How does the B-Class fit into the jigsaw? If Mercedes-Benz is right, it is just the thing for the young family.It believes the B will be ideal for the sort of people who might be considering a Volkswagen Golf or BMW's 1-Series.Officially, the B-Class is a "sports tourer", but to you and I it is more likely to be dropped into the people-mover basket.It's a mini model, but a family van that could also be shopped against a Honda Odyssey.It shows just how much the lines have been blurred between traditional car classes in recent years, because it is based on the baby A-Class yet has one of the roomiest and most versatile cabins in the business.And it also comes with the promise of a reasonably sporty drive, provided you choose the right engine.The B-Class has been in Australia for only a couple of months but is already rated a success. "Incoming orders are currently ahead of production we have ordered, so we are negotiating to increase B-Class production, especially once the B180 CDI comes on stream," the spokesman for Mercedes-Benz in Australia, Toni Andreevski, says. What he won't say is that the B is stealing sales from the A, and Mercedes believes it will punch a growing hole in the results for its compact contender.It is not hurting the C-Class, however, which points to the position it has in showrooms.Pricing for the B-Class has been set from $44,900, which is reasonable in the class and lines up against the BMW 1-Series from $34,900 and the Audi A3 five-door from $36,900.But the Benz price is for the B200 and there will be a cheaper B180 before much longer which should ease down into the $30,000-something range.There are two B-Class cars at the moment, the B200 with 100kW and the B200 Turbo with 142kW, and a price that moves up to $48,900.There are three optional packages — sports, luxury and touring — which can add anything from $1350 to $4786.Both Bs have the same five-door and five-adult cabin, front-wheel-drive, alloy-wheels, airconditioning and rain-sensor wipers.There is plenty of safety gear too, with six airbags, anti-skid brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control and electronic steering assistance.The B200 picks up a six-speed manual gearbox and 16-inch alloy wheels, as well as twin-pipe exhaust and chromed pieces on the bodywork.ON THE ROADThe B-Class is going to do well in Australia. It will be ideal for many of the active thirtysomethings — single, married and committed — who want a vehicle that is more than just a car.It is also a significant step up from the A-Class, which has always been the Benz for people who can only just make the money work or who want a second or third car as a shopping trolley.The B is much more substantial than the A, and few people would make the connection if they saw the newcomer without knowing its development history or were told the story.As a drive, it feels more substantial and loses almost all of the chop-chop bumpiness.It is not a sports car, and won't threaten a 1-Series or Golf on a winding road, but it has good grip in corners and the balance and feel are good enough for the class, price and customers.Apart from electronic stability control, which is becoming a must-have safety feature, the B also has steering assist. The electric power steering can actually give you extra help if the car believes, through its hi-tech sensors, that you're not turning enough and could run off the road.We don't know if we like it, and sporty drivers will hate it, but it could be the next step on the safety ladder.The test car was a B200 Turbo and it got along pretty well, with good bottom-end acceleration and plenty of passing power.But we have also tried a basic B with continuously variable transmission and it felt sluggish and unresponsive, the gearbox sounding as if it was working hard all the time.The six-speed manual turbo was more enjoyable, though most owners are going to be travelling down the auto road.The tester came with both the touring and sports packages, which brought more enjoyment with a sunroof and sports suspension, but took the price (with metallic paint) to $55,250.The roof is good, we didn't really mind about the suspension, and the value is not great.Really, the B-Class is not about sporty driving. It's more about transport and choices. It has a good cabin with a nice, high driving position, plenty of storage space and one of those variable seat systems that turns it into the Tardis.We would not pick it for driving enjoyment, but it scores well in every other area.THE BOTTOM LINEOne of the most versatile compacts on the road, with enough luxury to give it a special place. 77/100