Name: Mercedes-Benz B-class Review
Item: Mercedes-Benz B-class
Author: Gumtree.com

First launched back in 2005, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is now in its third generation. A larger, more powerful version of the older A-Class SUV, the car’s size technically qualifies it as a compact MPV. It’s a great all-rounder, with a strong emphasis on style. You’ll get all the luxury of a Mercedes in a practical car that’s safe and efficient, as well as roomy enough to handle mid-sized groups with ease. If you’re in the market for an SUV or MPV, and you can afford a premium price point, it’s worth taking a look.

Take a look at the Mercedes-Benz B-Class model page to check out available models and learn more.

What we think about the Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The B-Class is a luxury vehicle that offers a great balance of convenience and style.

Pros

Looks great

Decent range of efficient engines, with a new petrol hybrid leading the way

Elegant interior with great tech

More spacious than most people carriers

Cons

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High price tag

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Not as practical as full-sized MPVs

The B-Class is a five-door subcompact MPV. Its entry-level B180 trim has a 1.6-litre petrol engine, providing fuel efficiency of up to 44 mpg, while the other trims offer diesel engines. These are the B180d, the B180d Automatic, the B200d, and the B220d.

Driving performance of the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

The B-Class isn’t the most exciting Mercedes to drive, and there’s not much feel to the steering. But it might take you by surprise with how smooth and balanced its ride is, offering just as much agility as the smaller A-Class without any more body roll. Navigating winding country roads will be no more difficult than taking corners on city streets. The suspension can be quite bumpy at times, particularly when you’re hitting higher speeds on rough terrain.

Safety and reliability of the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Safety Rating9 / 10

The last time Euro NCAP put the Mercedes-Benz B-Class through its paces was back in 2019, and it performed well in their crash tests. It achieved a 96% score for how well it protected adult passengers, and 90% for child protection. Pedestrian safety was given a 78% score, while a 75% score was awarded for its safety equipment. Standard features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and active brake assist, and you can upgrade for active cruise control and a tyre pressure warning, among other extras.

Under the bonnet of the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

The entry-level 1.3-litre petrol engine in the B-Class performs capably for everyday driving, but a 0-62 time of eight seconds might be a little sluggish for someone paying for Mercedes performance. Similar acceleration can be found in the B200d’s diesel unit, while the larger 2.0-litre B220d provides 187 bhp and shaves a second off that time. The fastest engine available for the B-Class is also the most eco-friendly. The new B250e gets 215 bhp from combining a petrol engine and an electric motor, and can hit 62 mph from standing in 6.8 seconds.

What you'll find in the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Despite its large size, the B-Class has the sleek, streamlined appeal of a more compact luxury SUV, and its stylistic flourishes are way ahead of what most buyers would expect from an MPV. Even without the prestige of the Mercedes badge, its dynamic, elegantly sculpted body would command attention out on the road. To top it off, the large honeycomb grille, bulky front vents, and upswept side panels all give it a distinctive character that rivals some of the racier Benz models.

Comfort and interiors in the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

If interior quality is something that you value in your people carrier, then the B-Class is sure to blow you away. Like most Mercedes models, it boasts a clean, sophisticated layout, with impressive plastics and leathers that look and feel great. The driving position is nice and high, giving you a clear view of the road. It might let you down a little in terms of practicality, though. Cargo space is limited, and there are only five seats available – but there’s plenty of legroom for a small group.

What features you'll find in the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Features Rating9 / 10

When it comes to features packages, Mercedes vehicles can be relied on to excel, and the B-Class doesn’t disappoint. In terms of on-board tech, the MBUX infotainment system is one of the best on the market. You’ll access it via a 7.0-inch touchscreen, which can be upgraded to 10.2 inches on more expensive trims. This is also accompanied by a matching screen for driving information. Desirable extras higher up the range include augmented reality navigation and 64-colour ambient lighting, as well as handcrafted Artico leather upholstery.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

The entry-level B180 of the B-Class delivers an impressive 44 mpg, and the other trims also give you great fuel economy. The smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine on the B180d provides 53 mpg, while the 2.0-litre diesel engine on the B200d and B220d offers 54 mpg. If you’re really looking to cut down on fuel consumption and carbon emissions, check out the petrol hybrid on the B250e, available with the newest models. It offers up to 235 mpg, and its CO2 emissions are just 27 g/km.

Running costs of the Mercedes Benz B Class

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

If you’ve paid out for a premium vehicle like the Mercedes B-Class and you want to make savings elsewhere, great fuel economy will go a long way towards keeping your costs down. You can save a little bit on road tax if you keep your features to a minimum, and the lower emissions of the hybrid engine will also get you a reduction. It’s quite an expensive car to insure, even with the smaller engines, and the standard Mercedes manufacturer’s warranty is only three years.

Our verdict of the Mercedes Benz B Class

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

If you want a people carrier that offers something different, you'll love the larger size and peerless luxury of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Review