Introduction

When Mercedes decided to make the current A-Class more like a conventional hatchback, it meant that the company could leave the B-Class alone to fulfil a function as the taller, more pragmatic MPV of its compact car range. The B-Class has much in common with the A-Class, such as a range of four-cylinder, turbocharged engines, the option of front- or all-wheel 4Matic drive, and a choice between two gearboxes – however, there are no performance variants for the B-Class, as with the A-Class, although there is a clever Electric Drive model (known as the B 250 e), which provides fully zero-emissions running.

Did you know? The B-Class Electric Drive has a ‘half-sandwich’ floor, which is used to house the lithium-ion battery pack to preserve interior space.

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

Verdict: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (7.45/10)

The Mercedes B-Class is not one of the company’s most exciting products, but then – as an MPV – it’s not meant to be. What it does is offer simple, straightforward transportation to young families who want something a bit more prestigious than a Renault Scenic or Ford C-Max, and it provides more space and practicality on-board than the A-Class with which it shares so much. Watch out for a poor ride on models with bigger alloys and firmer suspension, and don’t go expecting any dynamic fireworks from it, and ...