The Mercedes B-Class driven in South Africa for 2015
What is it?
A new bumper and interior enhancement for a car that in South Africa, at least, plays second fiddle to the SUV. Elsewhere in Europe, the Mercedes B-Class is the brand’s second most popular seller. Depending on where you live then, the Mercedes B-Class is an entirely irrelevant car, or a very poignant one. Generally described as an MPV, or more simply as a stretched A-Class, the Mercedes B-Class invented this premium spin on an old segment and until the recent arrival of the BMW Active Tourer, had the segment all to its self. Could this be a sign of the MPV’s revival?
What’s it like?
Regardless of the visual package, the Mercedes B-Class bears a strong resemblance to the old car, which is to say slightly aloof and confusing. The A-Class has greater flair and the C-Class more sophistication. What we have here is a car that obeys to the voice of reason, offering greater, but not exceptional legroom, and rear seats that can be tumbled or moved back and forth for a variety of packing options.
Seating position in these cars is the drawcard. High enough to make its occupants feel safe but without disconnecting them from a tautly tuned chassis. The Mercedes B-Class offers a similar driving position to the ML but despite a lot of seat adjustment I found it too upright. The vertical dashboard only increases this abrupt driving sensation. Ventilation controls are still relegated to an eyes-off-road position and although the buttons have been streamlined, inside it’s all a bit serious.
Mercedes B-Class comes with three engines; two turbo petrols and a diesel. Try avoid the base 200 as it lunges clueless through gears and gets a bit frantic when a sudden overtaking move is required.
There’s a satisfying directness to the steering around centre point and a chassis that can be entertaining if the driver is willing. Even across poor surfaces the Mercedes B-Class rides with surefootedness and alacrity that few SUVs can match.
Should I buy one?
Updates to the Mercedes B-Class have failed to move the car a significant step forwards from what we experienced three years ago. There’s a noticeable shortage of innovative quality on offer and the cabin a touch sombre and not all that intuitive. The GLA offers better ground clearance and similar levels of practicality.
Mercedes B-Class Pricing
B?200 R?388,300.00
B250 R?464,800.00
B?200 CDI R?404,200.00
