First Drive: Mercedes B-Class

 

New hatch is more revolutionary than it looks.
As far as the future of Mercedes-Benz goes, the new second-generation B-class is much more significant than its evolutionary sheetmetal might suggest.
The B-class is the first of five new small cars from Mercedes-Benz that will roll out within the next couple of years, all built on shared underpinnings.
Next up will be the third generation A-class (early 2013), then a four-door coupe dubbed the CLA which is shown in “concept” form at the Beijing show in a couple of weeks, an SUV and a fifth model tipped to be a small sedan or convertible.

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These cars are designed to elevate Benz to serious player status in the global compact luxury market, introducing the three-pointed star to a whole new generation of car buyers.
So B-class gives us a first driving impression of the company’s new common platform. It’s also our first taste of new generation of turbo-petrol four-cylinder engines, a vastly uprated turbo-diesel and Benz’s first dual-clutch transmission.
It also has to defend the premium compact category sales lead its predecessor garnered over the likes of the BMW 1-Series and Audi A1 in Australia in 2011. However, Mercedes-BenzAustralia admits that will be a difficult challenge because of limited supply.
Those who do manage to purchase a B-class will find themselves driving a cheaper, more efficient and mostly better equipped car. Based on 300km or so of varied driving in and around Melbourne at the local launch, it’s also a better drive.
Okay, not exactly exciting, but then this is the most family-oriented among the coming offerings and designed very much to be an all-rounder. For exciting you might need to wait for the AWD 200kW AMG A-class that is said to be on its way in 2014.
Most of our experience was gained in the B200 BlueEfficiency, which is powered by a 115k/250Nm 1.6-litre turbo-petrol direct-injection four-cylinder engine. Once the sludgy Eco mode is deactivated, freeing up both throttle and gearshift, it proves to be a lively, smooth and tractable engine, capable of keeping up with the traffic and hauling its 1395kg kerb weight along without struggling.
True oomph is provided by the B200 CDI 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, its 300Nm of pulling power available from just 1600rpm to 3000rpm. Eighty kilograms of extra weight take a little off the diesel’s accelerative edge and also make the ride that little bit edgier.
Despite its entry-level status the B180 manages to perform more than adequately. Its 90kW 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine makes a still useful 200Nm and having the lightest weight also helps its ride quality and the light response of the electro-mechanical steering.
The B-class is a reliable rather than exciting handler. There isn’t that much steering feel or a sense of nimbleness. Instead, this is a car that likes to settle into a corner and stick to it. However, it does change lines better and feel less proppy than its 47mm taller predecessor.
A massive glass area in most directions provides great vision for carpark work. Rearward the view is limited, but standard parking sensors aid reversing and a rear-view camera is a $549 option.
Run-flat tyres are a controversial addition to the B-class, but while noticeable they don’t cruel the ride like earlier generations did on rival BMWs. However, there is still some harshness on rougher roads and noise intrusion on coarse surfaces.
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission also provides some rough moments, on one occasion hesitating noticeably when accelerating from a standing start in manual mode. However, launches in drive or reverse are smooth by DCT standards and changes are very quick.
Eco start/stop, by contrast, cannot match the latest Japanese systems from the like of Mazda and Subaru for speed and smoothness.
Undoubtedly smoother is the B-class’s interior, which has taken a significant step forward from its predecessor. The three-air con vents and fixed media screen in the upper centre-stack are dominant features. The driver gets a reach and rake adjustable multi-function steering wheel and proper left footrest.
However, Benz’s signature backlit floating needle instrumentation is missing.
The decision to lengthen and lower the body has increased passenger space but reduced luggage capacity, albeit to a still substantial 488 litres. Four adult passengers will fit comfortably and also have enough storage space to fit drinks, mobiles and various “i” devices.
However, a central propshaft tunnel reduces fifth seat space … and hints of the future variants to come