After several teasers and a few details about the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the German carmaker has finally revealed all the details and photos of its new car, with which the company is planning on revolutionizing the premium minivan market.
The new B-Class is larger than the first generation, only the height being lower. But this doesn’t mean less interior space at all, plus granting the car the best aerodynamic coefficient in the small minivan class: only 0.26. And this is not all, because Mercedes also promises an ECO Technology package which includes several upgrades on the car’s body kit, lowering the aerodynamic coefficient even more, to 0.24, lower than the Toyota Prius’ 0.25. The package’s upgrades include a redesigned underbody and redesigned window frames to allow a more efficient air flow.
As for the exterior design, many believe this might be the most beautiful van or minivan Mercedes has ever built. And chances are it will stay this way; the R-Class’ future is uncertain, while the upcoming A-Class will give up on the minivan look and will go for a hatchback body style. The car features almost all of the design elements used on recent models, such as the LED daytime running lights and lateral design elements aimed at improving the aerodynamics.
When looking at the drivetrain, the most important part is definitely the platform. The new B-Class will be built on Mercedes’ new front-wheel-drive platform. For those looking for a more sporty experience, the carmaker promises the car won’t feel like a van, especially due to its more dynamic profile and the lower driving position. As an option, the new B will also come with a Sport package, reducing the ride height by 20 mm and with a modified Direct-Steer system.
As for the powertrains available, Mercedes will offer several four-cylinder turbocharged engines. The 1.6-liter petrol engine delivers 122 hp and 200 Nm of torque and will also be available in a more powerful version with 156 hp and 250 Nm. Diesel fans will be able to choose between the B180 CDI and the B200 CDI, delivering 109 hp/250 Nm and 136 hp/300 Nm. There is a top of the line 2.0 liter petrol engine planned, but Mercedes hasn’t released any other details about it. All engines will be equipped as standard with a Start/Stop system. Customers will be able to choose between a six-speed manual transmission and the new seven-speed double-clutch 7G-DCT automatic transmission.
On the interior, being a Mercedes, the new B-Class will come with all the premium materials the German automaker uses on its vehicles as well as a huge list of high-tech system and technologies like Blind Spot Assist, Attention Assist, Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Distronic Plus, Pre-Safe, Active Parking Assist and a new version of the Collision Prevention Assist with Adaptive Brake Assist. This last system will work between 30 km/h and 250 km/h and let the driver know when an impact is about to happen; it will also automatically try to stop the car if the driver’s reaction is too slow.
The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class will make its world debut next month at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car will hit dealerships soon after and the German company will announce its pricing after the car’s official debut.
To read the full details about the new B-Class, you can read the automaker’s official press release, and there you will also find more than 40 photos of almost every angle of the car and the technology behind it.