PLAN B – Mercedes-Benz B-Class

PLAN B – Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The new B-Class is almost here, and we have pricing for the compact Benz

Late last year, Mercedes-Benz unveiled their latest generation B-Class, together with a host of stylish new models at the Paris Motor Show. And now, that new B-Class is about to arrive in local dealerships, and we wouldn’t be your trusted Auto Advisor if we didn’t get you the news first.

While the third-generation B-Class retains its familiar 'MPV' shape, it is significantly sleeker, with a lower roofline and features a high-tech interior which it shares with its A-Class sibling. It’s also bigger than its predecessor, with its width and wheelbase increased by 33mm and 30mm respectively.

On the exterior, it gets multi-beam headlights like the A-Class, as well as shorter overhangs front and rear. The rear gets sleeker taillights that integrate better with its new body style, and there are now up to 19-inch wheels on offer too.

Inside, it gets the same MBUX system as the A-Class as standard, although options include a 64 colour ambient lighting system, multi-contour climate controlled front seats with a massage function and ‘Energizing’ seat kinetics, and a heads-up display. Luggage space is massive with the 40:20:40 split rear seats folded down, expanding to an impressive 1540 litres.

Aside from the aforementioned MBUX upgrade, the compact people carrier also gets Intelligent Drive from the S-Class, with semi-autonomous capability in certain circumstances for the first time in the model’s history. A number of driver assistance systems comes with the car including the Active Distance Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist and Active Lane Change Assist.

Two engine options will be available in South Africa – a B200 and a B200d. The B200 will use a 4-cylinder 1.33 turbo petrol motor that produces 120kw and 250nm, and sends power to the front wheels via a7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The B200d though is powered by Mercedes’ new 2.0-litre turbodiesel motor offering 110kw and 320nm, paired with a new 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Mercedes-Benz B200 Style                    R526 900

Mercedes-Benz B200d Style                  R559 100

Mercedes-Benz B200 AMG Line             R577 075

Mercedes-Benz B200d AMG Line           R609 725

The B-Class comes standard with a 6-year/100 000km premium maintenance plan.