Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the next-gen B-class MPV. Codenamed as ‘W247’ during the development phase, the new offering promises better handling and promise from the retiring model. B-class MPV is reportedly the 4th among the India-bound octet of small car from the German Automakers factory. The B-Class inherits features and technology the S-class and A-class. The best of both segments make the B-Class one of the best family cars.
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In terms of exterior, the new B-class retains its hereditary one-box frame but this is where the hereditary traits end. In terms of design, the B-class boasts of the iconic ‘predator face’ front fascia borrowed from the A-class. Also with a 2,929mm wheelbase, the new B-class gets increased interior cabin space. The dimensions have also increased by a good factor viz. length(4,359mm), width(1,786mm) and height (1,557mm). Plus the reduced 0.24 drag coefficient coupled with shorter overhangs promises greater aerodynamics with increased manoeuvrability. Expect the new B-Class to rest on 16-inch to 19-inch wheels.
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Under the hood, the B-class will be offered in five engines options( two petrol and three diesel trims). The standard 1.5-litre diesel churning 115hp and 260Nm will power the entry-level B 180d trim. The engine will come mated to a 7-speed automatic gearboxes. Whereras, B180 and B200 will be powered by four-cylinder 1.33-litre M282 petrol engine tuned to deliver 136hp @ 200 Nm and 63 hp @ 250 Nm respectively. The petrol trims will also inherit the same state of transmission as the 1.5 diesel variant. Other than this a new 2.0-litre diesel will also be part of future variants. The new engine will be made available in two state of tunes viz. 150hp/320Nm and 190hp/400Nm. Further, we may also see upgrade to four-wheel drive transmission on future variants.
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In terms of features, there are a lot of firsts in the B-Class. Although at first glance you can be pardoned for drawing resemblance with the A-Class interior. A few key highlight include:
When it comes to comfort and safety, the B-Class stays true to its name. The suspension has been reworked to increase passenger comfort without compromising on agility. The MacPherson made struts coupled with twist-beam rear axle further ensure complete ride control.
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Optional Electronic damper tuning further makes the frame an all-terrain car. Also the adjustable rear seats (upto 140mm) make way for greater boot space. Depending on the variant, the boot capacity ranges from 455 litres to 705 litres (1540 litres if folded) and hence should serve you more than well to back pack all you could for family trips. Further, the new B-class will offer driver assist as optional feature. This coupled with the S Class inherited safety systems on top-spec trims may enable semi-autonomous driving in particular conditions.
Mercedes’ new found love affair with small compact model will continue until the upgraded versions of GLB, CLA and GLA are dispatched from the German Automakers factory. In India the current line up of B-class has been retired. However, keeping in mind India’s new grown affinity for compact performance cars, we expect the B-class to follow the all-new A-class hatchback in early 2019.