Mercedes-Benz, on Tuesday, launched the all-new B-Class MPV at the Paris Motor show. The addition to the 'B' badge is most likely an attempt by the company to revitalise the segment which has reportedly been one of the company's weakest.
The new MPV is based on the same platform that underpins the recently introduced A-Class. Mercedes has put efforts to deviate from the conventional box-type body of an MPV with a more swoopy shape. Cosmetically, the car resembles the A-class but with a taller roofline, steeper rear hatchback and a shorter overhang.
The B-Class sports a wide wheelbase of 2729mm which is about 30mm more than the A-Class. Additionally, the company also stated that the car will be offered with a sliding second row of seats by 2019. This will help expand the boot space from 455 litres to 705 litres. However, a boot capacity of up to 1540 litres can be obtained by folding the second row.
The interiors of the new MPV derives similar features to that of an A-class, including the same MBUX infotainment system, a cutaway dashboard with a 'floating display' featuring everything from instrument dials to mapping as well as audio selections.
The new B-Class will be offered in five engine variants including two petrol and three diesel engines. The entry-level B 180 petrol engine delivers a power of 134bhp and 200Nm of torque while the higher variant with the same 1.3-litre motor will produce161bhp and 250Nm of torque.
A seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission is offered across all the models, except for the 2.0-litre diesel which comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The new B-Class MPV will replace the current SE trim level in order to reflect a longer standard equipment list. Prices on the new car are yet to be announced. However, if reports are to be believed, the new B-Class will carry a price tag, around $1300 higher than the current B-Class.
