Described as a 'sports tourer', the B-Class straddles the space between their compact A-Class and its various derivatives and mainstream models like C-Class and upwards.
Now with a major facelift, the B-Class has been given a revamped front end with new bumper, new wider radiator with star inset, new daylight running lights and new LED high performance headlamps.
Inside changes include a new larger and freestanding head unit and new instrument cluster. Numerous driving assistance systems, which have trickled down from S-Class and other top models, are offered, some as standard and others as options.
Irish customers will have eight engines to choose from - four diesels and four petrol versions. The one likely to attract most Irish attention is the 1461cc, 4-cylinder 90bhp, B160 CDI Style and with C02 figure of 108, placing it in Tax Band A3 of €190 per annum and 240 Nm of torque. With its higher level of specifications, this entry-level version is expected to be priced at just over €31,000 ex works.
Next in line to it will be a B180 CDI Style with higher power and better torque, expected to arrive priced just above €32,000.
The petrol line-up begins with a 1595cc, 4-cylinder B180 Style with a 0-100km figure of 9.3 seconds. Expected to launch at just under €33,000, it has a C02 rating of 129 which equates to annual road tax of €270 (Band B1).
In international markets, B-Class Electric Drive and Natural Gas Drive versions form part of the model offering. When available in RHD, it's expected that the electric drive version will be offered here, with a price guide at €40,000 ex works.
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| B-Class interior |
