Thread: Mercedes B-Class 2011

Only premium compact MPV market, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class plays less free electrons before. A rate less pretentious and benefits enable it to come up titillating referencesto volume manufacturers.

Abandoning architecture sandwich floorof its predecessor, the new Class B adopts a more conventional platform, which lowers the center of gravity. The next Class , whichwill be based on the same basis, take the opportunity to take anaggressive stance and leave the city register minivan.



A test of the road, this new platform seems born. Class B shows a remarkable balance and insurance. Executive ready for its open to some criticism: its lack of precision makes the onset of understeer difficult to detect. If the ESP is keeping watch, the Class B stalled in front of the reference segment, the Ford C-Max . Depreciation appears remarkable, providing an ideal compromise between comfort and body support.

Under the hood, the engines are new but not revolutionary. The new four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 1,796 cm3 is derived from and closely OM651 of 2143cm3, already known in Class C and Class S, among others. Available intwo versions from 109 hp (B 180 CDI) and 136 hp (B 200 CDI), it delivers a satisfying pleasure, without overpowering the competition.

110 hp version, this block convinces byits flexibility: it agrees to resume under the 1500 r / min without grudging. The PSA HDi 110 bhp seems, however, more alive and better soundproofing. The 136 hp version seemed barely alive. If they have not been able to make a statement of use on our test track, we willstick to the values provided by the manufacturer, the same for both versions: from 4.4 to 4.6 l/100 km depending on the route.