Mercedes Benz launches facelift B Class in Indian car market
March 11, 2015: German car maker today launched the facelift version of its luxurious hatchback B Class in Indian car market with starting price of Rs. 27.95 lakh (ex-showroom price in Mumbai). The hatchback has undergone various cosmetic changes on both exteriors and interiors. As far as changes under hood are concerned it continues the existing 1.6 litre and 2.2 litre diesel engine configurations.
Facelift Mercedes Benz B Class to be launched on March 11, 2015
March 4, 2015: It is reported that the German car maker Mercedes Benz will launch the facelift version of its luxurious B class sedan in Indian car market on March 11, 2015. The facelift B class will flaunt various cosmetic changes on the exteriors and interiors and will continue the existing 1.6 litre 4 cylinder turbocharged petrol and 2.2 litre 4 cylinder turbocharged diesel engines.
Mercedes Benz launches B Class Edition 1 in Indian car market
June 24, 2014: German car maker Mercedes Benz has launched the limited edition of its premium hatchback B Class in Indian car market with code name as Edition 1. With increased ground clearance the hatchback receives various interesting cosmetic changes on both exteriors and interiors continuing the same engine configuration offered in diesel variant.
Mercedes Benz to launch Special Edition of B Class on June 24, 2014
June 16, 2014: With an objective to celebrate the successful existence of B Class in Indian car market, German car maker is going to special edition christened as Edition 1 on June 24, 2014. This special edition will be introduced in 180 CDI version of B Class and will carry various remarkable cosmetic changes which will integrated according to changing market scenario and feedback received from the existing customers of the vehicle. There will be however no change in the existing engine configuration o the vehicle.
Mercedes Benz B Class Review by Expert
Facing a constant and tough competition from its major rivals in the Indian market, BMW and Audi, Mercedes Benz has now launched its Mercedes Benz B Class ‘Sports Tourer’ in India on 18 September 2012. The major reason behind the launch of this compact hatchback-cum-MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) is to gain buyer’s attention and try to drift the market away from the premium car stalwarts Audi and BMW. The Mercedes Benz B Class is a very healthy option for those who want to have the leisure of owning a ‘Merc’ on a tighter budget, especially the young car buyers of the country.
The Mercedes C Class, even after having the lowest price tag as compared to its rival cars, is still unable to attract large number of buyers compared to its competitors, thus much hopes are on Mercedes Benz B Class to ensure better sales for the company and it with its aggressive price points it will definitely do. As of now, in the premium segment this sort of compact and spacious vehicle was need of the hour, which possesses drivability of sedan and space of an MPV with no compromise on compactness. But yes, on the price point front and compact segment it takes on Audi Q3 and BMW X1.
The front of this compact Mercedes B Class car is a signature one, and with new xenon headlights it resembles a lot to the Mercedes Benz M-Class, although the stance is not that elevated. The newly structured bumper and wide air dam provides it a very classy attitude. The inside has huge room at front and rear seats along with more than adequate space at the boot. The features inside
Mercedes Benz B Class are AC with perfect cooling capabilities at every corner of the cabin, modern Audio-CD player, USB port along with leatherette seats for all passengers. There are many adjustments available at the driver’s seat that makes it cozy to drive on really long routes. Out of numerous exciting features one is ECO start/stop function, which automatically stops the engine when the car’s speed is less than 5-10 kph and as soon as the clutch is released, the engine starts smoothly again thus ensuring a high fuel saving of 11%. The safety aspects are above par in Mercedes Benz B Class that includes airbags for all occupants, attention assist, rear-view camera with sensors for safe parking, intelligent anti-theft security along with ABS with EBD, Brake Assist etc.
The all new Mercedes B Class is best one up till now as it delivers superb performance compared to its earlier generations across the globe. Apart from power packed performance the cherry on cake for the Indian markets is that it delivers better fuel efficiency alongside smaller carbon footprint. The Mercedes Benz B Class is currently available in the conventional 1.6L petrol power-train option that smokes out 122 hp of sheer power and peak torque of 200 Nm. There are reports that by 2012 end or early next company will slip in the diesel run motor too.
Mercedes Benz B Class Rivals
The lately unveiled New
Mercedes Benz B Class ‘Sports Tourer’ has caused the luxury market to stun with its numerous exciting elements such as looks, promising mileage and expected low-price. On all the three major parameters, as far as India car buyer is concerned, it has proved its mettle. To be straightforward this Sporty-looking large hatchback cum compact MPV has no head-on competitor up till now since it is one-of-its-kind vehicle with premium badge in the luxury market.
The challenger for B Class, say in the price points aspect, is BMW X1 that is priced pretty aptly. Starting with the looks both appear a bit similar as both are based on sedan platform, here X1 is not proper SUV but a crossover. Although the stance is a bit elevated of X1, when compared to ‘Sports Tourer’ Mercedes Benz B Class, but when it comes to side profile and rear it confers true competition. The interiors of X1 Crossover promises up market comfort for 5, while the lavish inside of Mercedes Benz B Class is more comfortable and premium comparatively with enough headroom and legroom. Here the on the gadgetry part both fall nearly identical. BMW X1 has got 3 variants in all with 2 diesels and a petrol, on the other hand Mercedes Sports Tourer B Class currently has single petrol motor with two trims, B180 and B180 Sport. Being labeled as Sports Tourer, the vehicle never lets you down in terms of power and performance against slightly high numbers of BMW compact Crossover. The B Class wins all ‘Indian’ hearts as it returns unimaginable fuel economy with its innovative BLUE EFFICIENCY, while at this juncture X1 fails to impress.
New Mercedes Benz B Class Rival Table |
Model |
Engine |
Mileage (City/Highway) |
Acceleration (0-100 kph) |
Unique features |
Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
Mercedes Benz B Class Petrol |
1598cc |
11.5 kmpl/ 14.8 kmpl |
10.2 seconds |
one of its kind, space, versatility |
Rs 21.4 Lakh (ex Mumbai) |
Mercedes Benz B Class Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The inaugural Mercedes Benz B Class in India is introduced with single engine alternative of 1.6L petrol, which has two trims to choose from i.e. B180 and B180 Sport. The power-train is especially tweaked for good, to provide extremely good fuel economy and lesser carbon footprint together with no harm to refinement. The 1.6L produces topnotch power of 122 PS along with 200 Nm of peak torque; moreover apart from these power numbers it also delivers a mileage of 11.5 kmpl in city drives, while 14.8 kmpl is achieved on longer routes. The Mercedes Benz B Class mileage is truly sparkling in its class, all credits to ultra refined and innovative BlueEFFICIENCY technology, which has won many accolades worldwide and surely cheers Sports Tourer enthusiasts in the country. These fuel economy statistics are bound to increase with the launch of Mercedes Benz B Class Diesel early next year.
Model |
Mileage (City) |
Mileage (Highway) |
Mercedes Benz B Class Petrol |
11.5 kmpl |
14.8 kmpl |
Mercedes Benz B Class Engine, Power and Performance
The all-new upgraded and improved Mercedes Benz B Class was expected to boast two engines, but it is as of now launched with solo petrol variant with two editions to choose from, called B180 and B180 Sport. The 1.6L, 1595cc inline 4-cylinder turbocharged direct-injection (TCDI) petrol engine that has fitting power and torque numbers rests inside the bonnet to explode. The Mercedes Benz B Class petrol powertrain have ECO start/stop function with ECO display that is fitted as regular equipment. Both these elements assist the driver to reduce fuel consumption. Moreover the performance and fuel efficiency is bound to reach newer levels of accomplishments, thanks to the innovative BlueEFFICIENCY expertise of the Mercedes engineers that made it possible. The smooth engine of Mercedes Benz B Class is mated to profound 7-speed dual clutch transmission (7G-DCT).
Mercedes Benz B Class Pick up and Acceleration
Besides being a space conscious vehicle, the Mercedes Benz B Class Sports Tourer also boasts some thrilling acceleration numbers that are enough to astound any Merc fanatic. The German carmaker has smartly tried to put in every aspect of a vehicle, be it space inside, compact outside or even peppy engine with overwhelming acceleration numbers. The single petrol version available with max power output of 122 PS at 5000 rpm is competent enough to attain a top speed of 190 kmph. Moreover the Mercedes Benz B Class with 200 Nm of topmost torque at 1250-4000 rpm assists to reach 100kph milestone from nil in mere 10.2 seconds.
Here the awaited Mercedes Benz B Class Diesel that expects a New Year launch will also show off some more than satisfactory numbers in the acceleration table. Overall Mercedes B Class pick up is far better in comparison to the potent rivals like Audi and BMW in India.
Mercedes Benz B-Class Pickup and Acceleration |
Engine Variant |
Power (PS / RPM) |
Torque (NM / RPM) |
Pickup (0-100 kph) |
Top Speed (Km/ h) |
Transmission |
Mercedes Benz B-Class 1.6L Petrol |
122/ 5000 |
200/ 1250-4000 |
10.2 seconds |
190 |
7-Speed Dual Clutch AT |
Mercedes Benz B Class Interiors and Features
The superiority of work that is offered in a ‘Merc’ interior is not a hidden fact, but an exquisite reality that every proud owner wants to have a dip. This modern vehicle has got immense space that can carry all the passengers with optimum soothe. With ARTICO or fine leather everywhere, the interiors of Mercedes Benz B Class bestow a uniform appearance and high-end appeal. The seats of Mercedes Benz B Class offer high levels of coziness to the occupants along with immense legroom and shoulder room at front as well as rear. The driver’s seat is totally electrically adjustable with 4-way lumbar support which enables greater adaptation to size of the body. Moreover with memory package three individual settings for different driver position can be done along side, head restraint and ORVMs.
The classy looking electric sunroof, which is larger of about 33% than the standard, is pretty easy to operate with overhead control panel allowing nature to peep inside. The lean yet spacious dash with black high-gloss ash wood is created with sporty attitude in mind, while the central console emerges exclusivity with many controls in silver and chrome accent showcasing eminence. The central console houses an up market entertainment system that has audio player with 20 CD and Radio with dual tuner along with WMA/MP3 compatible CD player.
Moreover there is color screen of 14.7cm display, Bluetooth interface with hands-free feature, teamed up with USB and AUX interface socket inside centre arm rest and console. The fine quality leather covered 3-spoke steering wheel has as many as 12 function keys with perforated leather topstitching alongside and leather shift lever. Additionally there are handy features such as ECO Start Stop function, AC with dust-filter and rain sensing windscreen wipers besides stowage under the co driver seat. The versatility of Mercedes Benz B Class comes in frame with EASY-VARIO-PLUS System that enables the folding of rear seat backrests into 1/3: 2/3 split.
Mercedes Benz B Class Exterior and Features
The premium vehicles of Mercedes Benz are famed for their elegance and striking appearance that is a result of urbane design engineering by its renowned expertise. Another significant aspect has been the solid built quality of its automobiles that has made it one of the most reliable premium auto makers. Here the New Mercedes Benz B Class compact MPV cum hatchback is no different from the legacy. The overall outer surface is flawless and showcases numerous sporty cues at the front and on the side profile that are stretched till the tail gate of this new age compact utility vehicle. The German giant calls this versatile product as Mercedes B Class ‘Sports Tourer’ from Indian perspective and most of its elements on outside claim the same.
The front of Mercedes Benz B Class has upswept headlamps with daytime running LEDs that look like the beautiful eyes-brows of a gorgeous. The front grille is simple yet bold with twin chrome slatted grille and amid is big Merc insignia, holding the trust of the company. The Bi-Xenon headlamps come with cleaning system for convenience. While front bumpers of Mercedes Benz B Class are carved out to perfection than the predecessor, with air dams in diamond shape and chrome highlights; whereas one of its kind fog lamps are worthy looking at. Furthermore, above tinted windscreen more than half of the roof comes blackened that confers a proper Sports Tourer image.
The side-profile, a bit reflects New Hyundai i20, but sporty wheel arches make it distinctive. The blacked out B and C-pillar are remarkable and go hand-in-hand with exquisite appearing turn indicator mounted ORVMs. The 17-inch 7-twin-spoke alloy wheels provide it an upright stance. The rear of New Mercedes Benz B Class continuous the sporty theme with completely restyled tail lamps, which are now bigger, and high mounted stop lamps. Moreover there is dual exhaust pipe with chrome finish alongside large tail gate for easy storage of the large luggage with ease.
Safety Features in Mercedes Benz B Class
Since decades, the German carmaker has been renowned for presenting the best possible and advanced features when it comes to providing safety aspects. And here the Mercedes Benz B Class is no different. The stretched hatchback will boast as many as 7 airbags that includes front and curtain airbags for all occupants. The Mercedes Benz B Class has got more safety with the ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) with Acceleration Skid Control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) that provides total control of the vehicle at the time of panic braking. Some of the technically-forward safety elements will include Attention Assist and Collision control system, whereas being a Sports Tourer it will boast Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control. Some of the standard Mercedes Benz B Class safety features are ELR seats belts with height adjustable function for all, improved anti-theft and engine immobilizer and active head restraints on all seats.
Mercedes Benz B Class Driving and Handling
Around the globe wherever the new Mercedes Benz B Class is already launched it has got a fine ride quality and the same can be expected when it is launched in India. The B Class Sports Tourer is a perfect out-goer with which no one gets bored as it has got many abilities to explore at a time. The spacious MPV with sporty attitude is very comfortable inside and the NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness) levels have improved in comparison to the earlier version. The ground clearance is apt as a Sports Tourer possess and can well take care of potholes and bumpy rides. The Mercedes Benz B Class handling and drivability is up to the mark and cuts corners very well in the city drives. And when unleashed its true ‘Sports Tourer’ approach it leaves no stone unturned in getting you that racy feel in a large hatch. The braking of the New Mercedes Benz B Class comes supported by ABS, EBD and BA—which works well in conjunction.
Mercedes Benz B Class Accessories
The genuine accessories offered by Mercedes Benz will let your ‘Sports Tourer’ get that distinct look and stance from others. The Mercedes B Class accessories comprise of stylish, sleek and light weight alloy wheels that will provide the premium vehicle an up to date stance. Moreover the entertainment system for rear passengers has touch screens placed at the back of front occupants head rests, besides ski rack, roof boxes along with bicycle rack to hold your vital belongings. Furthermore, there is internet aspect with the help of InCar Hotspot feature that enables you to effortlessly connect smart phones, laptops, tablet PC’s on the move. Additionally there are other garnishing such as floor carpet, embossed rubber mats, car cover, branded door sills and extra cushions for head-neck alongside many more.
Mercedes Benz B Class Road Test Report
The German carmaker is all ready to go full throttle at competition in India with its spanking-new Mercedes Benz B Class positioned as ‘Sports Tourer’. Now let’s check out, in a road test, how it will perform against its arch competitors such as Audi Q3 and BMW X1, when it is launched by September-October 2012. This compact MPV Mercedes Benz B Class cum large hatchback launched initially with petrol model, while the diesel motor will see the sun by yearend or early next year depending upon the demand.
Being a Merc the ride quality is bound to be great and Mercedes Benz B Class carries the tradition well, here it is assisted with its 17-inch alloys. The top speed achieved was of 160 kmph. The NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels are controlled largely at high speeds. The engine is refined one, which one can feel while driving, though it is not that swift but still fun to drive. The Mercedes Benz B Class handling is remarkable considering its big size in conjunction with optimum body control through turns. The existing petrol motor is quiet and smooth, but tends to get a bit noisy when revved harder but it’s so agile that you rarely have to get it pumping. The car sits under the Mercedes Benz R Class, which is termed as Grand Sports Tourer across the globe. The Mercedes Benz B Class length 4359 mm, width is 1786 mm and height is 1557 mm. The stance is pretty sporty besides being youthful, while and interiors are capacious with some exciting elements to hand around.
Mercedes Benz B Class Conclusion
The Mercedes Benz B Class is one-of-its-kind vehicle in the premium segment.This hatchback cum MPV termed as Sports Tourer takes the mettle from existing rivals like Audi Q3 and BMW X1. This sort of vehicle is need of the hour; be it any segment, the consumers are pretty inclined to it as they get a versatile mover in a compact shape, somewhat like Maruti Ertiga sorts. Although the company is not looking at volumes but still, if Mercedes Benz B Class here does an Ertiga, or even half of it, then sky is the limit for the German auto giant. The Mercedes Benz B Class has all the capabilities to bring back the pride of the Mercedes Benz in India, which it enjoyed before the evolution of its nation mates BMW and Audi. The significant factor that will make or break the deal for Merc in the country will be its pricing.