Mercedes-Benz hopes to lure younger buyers to its all-new five-seat MPV
- But it still looks like the old B-class...
Uh-huh, even though Mercedes-Benz is trying to inject more sportiness into the design of the second-generation B-class codenamed W246. The Germans are hoping to attract younger buyers to its all-new five-seat MPV.
Although the B-class isn't a popular Mercedes in Thailand yet, it is so in Europe with the clientele ranging from uncles down to those needing a versatile, compact car for daily use, like taxi drivers. Note how the interior has evolved with flashier features like the three-spoke steering and circular air-con vents.
As you may already know from a previous preview of the B-class (and A-class), the W245 predecessor's so-called sandwich platform _ designed to neatly pack batteries or fuel-cells beneath the floor _ has been omitted in favour of a more conventional floorplan.
As a result, Mercedes has managed to make the new B-class look more dynamic in appearance.
The 1,557mm height is a good 50mm lower than before allowing for an 86mm lower seat height to compensate for any loss in headroom.
This, Mercedes adds, makes entry/exit easier in the B-class, and a gain on another front _ lower centre of gravity for better road-holding capability.
Make no mistake, though: Mercedes stresses that the B-class will still be capable of accommodating various alternative power due to come later in managed cycles like fuel-cell, electric, natural gas and so forth.
The interior promises more visual zest than before.
- What about the conventional ones?
Just a recap. Earlier announcements include new four-cylinder turbo engines which can be laid transversely for front-drive Mercs like the A/B classes and other future body derivatives, as well as longitudinally for rear-drivers like for future C/E/S classes.
On the petrol front is a 1.6-litre with outputs of 122hp (B180) and 156hp (B200). This M270 unit generates maximum torque from just 1,250rpm and replaces the old 1.5 and 1.7-litre heads.
As for diesel, there's a 1.8-litre motor with 109hp (B180 CDI) and 136hp (B200 CDI). It's essentially a downsized four-pot from the 2.1-litre OM651 oil-burner with peak torque achieved at 1,400rpm.
While promising high levels of tractability in real-world driving, a brand new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic replacing the old CVT should guarantee a more responsive and engaging drive.
The steering hasn't gone fully electric yet, so the electro-mechanical setup should provide for some steering feel. An optional Sport Pack is also available for the B-class including a more direct steering and firmer suspension.
The new B-class comes with a conventional platform.
- Will Mercedes-Benz Thailand still sell the B-class?
Sure, man. Although Thais still fancy big Mercs, many people think that smaller premium cars will one day become more accepted by image-conscious buyers.
Today's B-class only comes with a B180 CDI option priced at 2.799 million baht. This is the price range of the locally assembled C-class saloon and explains why no more than 300 B-classes have been sold since its launch in 2005.
A conservative marketing approach means this is the B-class of choice due to come early next year. A more radical notion is to build the B-class in Thailand and equip it with NGT technology to attract a special excise tax. Modules to fit into right-hand-drive vehicles weren't available in the old B-class.
But Mercedes-Benz Thailand will have higher hopes with the next A-class due to follow shortly after the B-class makes it bow in Frankfurt later this month. The new A-class will be even sportier than the B-class in five-door hatchback form.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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