Driven: Mercedes B180 CDI Sport
 

Like its predecessor, the new Mercedes B-class takes the fight to established models in the competitive compact MPV class, including Ford C-Max, Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Zafira, writes Philip Shoulder.

Yet its sharper, more purposeful new looks and improved dynamics may also tempt buyers away from smaller hatchback models. New powertrains include 1.6 litre petrol and 1.8 litre diesel engines, of 108 bhp to 154 bhp, driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual or seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox.

Stepping into the new B-class’s cabin, the first thing you notice is the decent driving position. Accommodation is flexible, thanks to rear seats easily folding down in a 60/40 split, and the boot offers a capacious 666 litres seats up and 1545 litres seats down. There are many storage areas dotted around the car too, so B-class is well geared-up for family duties, although the back bench is set rather low in the car, meaning rear passengers can feel a bit hemmed in.

There’s a full range of safety kit – including Crash-Responsive Emergency Lighting and Collision Prevention Assist. You get a rear parking camera as standard, but will have to spend another £1000+ for real leather and just over £500 for full climate control. Sat-nav is optional too, although the screen and wiring is already in situ.

As you’d expect with a Mercedes, the B-class’s cabin exudes quality – further enhanced at night by ambient lighting. The driver instrumentation is classy and clear, although some may find that the steering wheel partially obstructs the speedo.

Once on the move, the firm, unsettled ride makes it apparent that Sport spec doesn’t suit the B-class. The stiffer, lowered suspension and 18-inch wheels with low-profile tyres serve to accentuate poor road surfaces. Although not an issue on motorways, it’s easy to see the softer sprung SE version making more sense for daily family use.

It’s no hot-hatch, but for an MPV, the B-class offers surefooted handling and is more involving to drive than its predecessor: the Direct Steer Variable Steering system, standard on Sport models, offers good levels of feel and feedback. The 1.8 litre diesel in 108 bhp form, lacks the tractability of a bigger oil-burner at low speeds, but nevertheless pulls better than an equivalently sized petrol motor. 0-60 and top speed figures don’t translate the on-road usability of this car’s performance: it makes a good motorway cruiser and offers enough acceleration for easy overtaking.

Compared to key rivals, the B-class is by no means cheap. Yet although expensive compared to a VW Golf Plus or Ford C-Max – the B180 does possess a prestige quality that separates it from the competition.

Add the fact it’s decent to drive, with class-leading running costs and the Mercedes becomes an appealing option.

TECH SPEC
OTR PRICE: £22,715
Max Power: 108bhp at 3200-4600 rpm
Max Torque: 184lb ft at 1400-2800 rpm
Max Speed: 118 mph
Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 10.9 secs
MPG (combined): 64.2
CO2 emissions: (g/km) 115