Mercedes-Benz has had an extremely busy Paris Motor Show, showcasing everything from their Mercedes-AMG GT 43, to the A-Class Sedan, to their new GLE SUV. But one of the most important models displayed was actually the new B-Class.
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. It will be available in two derivatives, Sport and AMG-Line, with sportiness conveyed via a distinctive black bumper bottom section with diffuser look, chrome trim strip and a full-length roof spoiler.
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.
While Mercedes-Benz South Africa has yet to confirm which engines will be introduced locally, the B-Class will be launched overseas with a choice of five engines – three diesels and two petrols at launch.
Both the B180 and B200 will use a 4-cylinder 1.33 turbo petrol motor, available with 100kw and 200nm, and 120kw and 250nm respectively, with both sending power to the front wheels via a7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The entry-level diesel offering - the B180d – makes do with the A-Class’ 1.5-litre motor, and outputs 85kw and 260nm. Debuting in the B200d and B220d is Mercedes’ new 2.0-litre, offering 110kw and 320nm, and 140kw and 400nm respectively. This transversely mounted motor will be mated with a new 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Mercedes-Benz is already taking orders for the new B-Class in Europe, with deliveries expected to commence early in 2019. Naturally it will be released locally, but expect a launch in the second quarter of 2019, with pricing and specification set to be announced closer to that time.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Celebrates 140 Years with an Epic Glob and the Mercedes-Benz Gla.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-Benz B-Class cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class starts from around R580,000 for the base B200 model, while the B220d AMG Line variant pushes closer to R680,000, making it a premium compact MPV that sits comfortably in Mercedes' entry-level luxury segment.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class worth buying?
The B-Class is worth buying if you need a practical family hauler with luxury credentials and cutting-edge tech, but it's pricey compared to mainstream MPVs and lacks the dynamic appeal of traditional Mercedes models.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class in South Africa?
The B-Class competes against the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (around R550,000), Audi A3 Sportback (from R520,000), and premium MPVs like the Volkswagen Touran, though few direct rivals match its combination of luxury and practicality.
Q: What engines are available in the Mercedes-Benz B-Class locally?
Mercedes-Benz South Africa typically offers the B200 with a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing around 120kW, and the B220d with a 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering approximately 140kW, both paired with 8G-DCT automatic transmissions.
Q: How practical is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class for families?
The B-Class excels as a family car with its massive 1540-litre boot space when seats are folded, high seating position for excellent visibility, and advanced safety systems including Active Distance Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist.
Should You Buy It?
The best luxury compact MPV under R700,000 in SA is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, but only if you value badge prestige and tech over pure value. At R580,000 to R680,000, it's a brilliant family hauler with S-Class intelligence and A-Class sophistication, offering 1540 litres of boot space and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. However, it's significantly pricier than mainstream alternatives and lacks the driving excitement you'd expect from a three-pointed star. Buy it if you need maximum practicality with luxury credentials, skip it if you want traditional Mercedes driving dynamics or better value for money.
