Mercedes B-Class Crams More Sport Into The Sport Tourer

There are plenty of drivers around the world that want a car with enough room to hold people and gear but want that car to be sporty at the same time. Mercedes aims to meet that niche with its new B-Class that it promises is more dynamic looking and agile on the road than its predecessor. The new B-Class promises more interior room than the outgoing version and has a completely new interior and MBUX multimedia system.

That multimedia system has improved graphics, standard touch screen, MBUX augmented reality, and "Hey Mercedes" voice control. The B-class also has driver assistance systems carried over from the S-Class. Those features include Active Distance Assist DISTONIC providing route-specific driver support by changing speed when approaching curves, junctions, and roundabouts. Active Emergency Stop Assist is integrated along with Active Lane Change Assist.

Mercedes will offer the B-Class with a transverse mounted version of the OM 654 2.0L diesel engine, a new engine for the series. The B-Class will also have a four-cylinder diesel of 1.5L displacement with up to 85 kW and 260 Nm torque. Four-cylinder gas engines will be offered in 1.33L displacement.

All models are offered exclusively with a dual-clutch transmission including a 7-speed unit and a new 8-speed unit. The car is offered with all-wheel drive and a 51-liter tank option depending on the engine. Mercedes fits the B-Class with fancy seats offering climate control and massage function.

The seats will automatically change the angle of the seat cushion and backrest in small increments to improve comfort. The rear seat is a 40:20:40 split offering and an automatic tailgate is an option. Mercedes will start sales of the B-Class December 3, 2018, with deliveries starting in February 2019.

SOURCE: Mercedes