The latestMercedes-BenzB-Classwill be debuting, along with a host of other cars, at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September. The vehicle comes with a long list of improvements and changes as well as a new 4-cylinder engine. The list of changes is so impressive in fact, that according to the company, no other Mercedes-Benz has ever seen so many new developments to a new model.

Latest Mercedes-Benz B-Class gets new styling

The exterior of the new B-Class comes with a wide grille and headlamps that extend to the side of the vehicle, along with the rear of the vehicle featuring a wide window. The bonnet flows into the A-pillar with the roof line descending into the roof spoiler. The whole look of the vehicle is more sporty and aerodynamic, further emphasized by the pronounced wheel arches with feature lines running under the belt line.

Additional improvements to the aerodynamic properties of the new B-Class come in the form of improvements to the air flow around the front wheels as well as the design of the underbody of the car. The optional ECO technology package comes with a serrated wheel arch spoiler, to further push the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle to the point where it is on par with the E-Class coupe’. The drag coefficient in the new B-Class is cd = 0.24 which is impressive for a vehicle with a station wagon rear end.

Space is also another issue that is addressed with the new B-Class. Even with a reduction of height compared to the previous model, the new B-Class has improved headroom and is one of the most spacious cars in the segment in this regard. The legroom in the B-Class is also very impressive, to the point where it is also the segment leader.

New Engines

Under the hood the new model comes with a completely new engine series which is based on the 3rd generation Mercedes-Benz direct injection system. The B 180 petrol engine produces up to 90 kW (122 hp) and 200 Nm of torque with the B 200 clocking in at 115 kW (156 hp) and 250 Nm. The diesel B 190 CDI generates 80 kW (109 hp) and 250Nm of torque, with the B 200 CDI generating 100 kW (136 hp) and 300 Nm of torque.

Another new feature is the 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission which features an electronic oil pump that enables the start/stop tech and allows for gear shifting without any interruption in tractive power. There is also an option for a 6-speed manual transmission.

New safety features start with a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist. There is also Collision Prevention Assist which warns the driver via a visual and acoustic signal regarding possible obstacles as well as preparing the brake assist. There are also a host of other new safety features in the new B-Class.

Look for more information regarding a local release of the latest Mercedes-Benz B-Class in South Africa.