In addition to the next generation of GLE SUV, Mercedes-Benz has also revealed the latest version of its B-Class MPV. Due to go form part of an expanded small car range for the brand, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class takes many cues from its smaller A-Class sibling, including its platform, engines and overall styling theme.
The new B-Class will also be the third product to receive Mercedes’ new MBUX infotainment system, and boasts an interior that is more practical and spacious than before. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class is due to go on sale in Australia half way through 2019.
“The latest derivative of the new generation of compact cars from Mercedes-Benz, the B-Class writes a further punchy chapter in the success story of the dynamic Mercedes-Benz Sports Tourer,” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Daimler AG.
“With its emotional yet purist design, the new B-Class blends seamlessly into the design language of Sensual Purity.”
Like the latest generation of the A-Class, the new B-Class uses the brand’s latest styling and is both sleeker and softer than previous B-Class models. The front end isn’t as aggressive as the A-Class or new CLS, though it does incorporate the brand’s new ‘double torch’ LED daytime running lights. In the centre is the large new Mercedes corporate grille, while the side profile of the car is more rounded than before. The rear is more curvaceous than the previous B-Class, which Mercedes says helps achieve a low 0.24 drag coefficiency.
The interior of the new B-Class follows on from the A-Class with a similar layout that’s modern, technologically advanced, and appears to be high quality. Standard equipment is MBUX, which is the brand’s latest infotainment system with ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice recognition. Unlike many cars which limit voice control to the infotainment system, MBUX can control various functions of the car, such as the temperature and sunroof positioning. Like the A-Class, the B-Class is expected to get the optional dual 10.25-inch screens as standard.
At launch in Europe, five four-cylinder drivetrains will be available. The B180 (100kW/200Nm) and B200 (120kW/250Nm) use the same 1.33-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the new A-Class. The B180d (85kW/260Nm) uses a 1.5-litre turbo diesel while the B200d (110kW/320Nm) and B220d (140kW/400Nm) use a 2.0-litre turbo diesel. The B200d and B220d use a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while all other variants use a seven-speed version. Australian models are yet to be announced, but we’d expect the B180 and B200 to make it locally, with a B250 to be made available later on.
Like the new A-Class, all variants use a torsion beam rear suspension set up, though if buyers choose the optional adaptive suspension, an multi-link independent rear is added. Up to 705-litres of bootspace is available depending on rear seat configuration. Fold the seats flat, and up to 1,540-litres is available in total – 7-litres less than the previous model, but Mercedes claims that the space can be used more efficiently thanks to its variable boot floor.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the new B-Class will land in Australia half way through 2019, with local engines, specifications and pricing to be confirmed before then.
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