Mercedes-Benz B-Class revealed ahead of Frankfurt... but is it coming here?

[Bill Wood]

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Minivan/Van, Europe, Hatchback, Mercedes-Benz



If you had to pick which model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup packed in the most new features, which would you choose? The S-Class? The SLS AMG? You might want to try the new B-Class on for size, because according to Daimler, its newest model encompasses the most new developments ever launched on a single vehicle.

For starters, the premium compact minivan/hatchback debuts a new front-drive platform for Mercedes, which will also go on to underpin a new A-Class and a whole raft of derivatives as well. It also features a new family of four-cylinder engines (both direct-injection gasoline versions and common-rail diesels) and new six speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions with integrated stop/start and regenerative braking systems. The new B-Class also includes a staggering array of available safety systems, including Adaptive Headlamp Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Attention Assist, Speed Limit Assist and Active Parking Assist, Brake and Hill Hold functions, Linguatronic and Distronic Plus.

The new B also offers more space for both passenger and cargo over the model it replaces, while returning improved aerodynamics which, together with the new powertrain family, delivers better fuel economy and emissions figures. The one-box design takes its cues from recent Benz concept cars and looks significantly more sculpted and dynamic than the outgoing model, which was rather conservative in its styling in the first place and has since grown long in the tooth.

Mercedes will officially pull the veil of the new B-Class at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month before European buyers can begin taking delivery in November. The question is whether this second-generation model will make it to American showrooms, where its predecessor did not. Canadian buyers have had the outgoing model at their disposal, but whether this heralds the arrival of front-drive Mercedes in the U.S. market (as studied) is a matter we'll be monitoring closely. In the meantime, you can dive into the full details in the extensive press release after the jump and the high-res images in our mega gallery for more.Continue reading Mercedes-Benz B-Class revealed ahead of Frankfurt... but is it coming here?

Mercedes-Benz B-Class revealed ahead of Frankfurt... but is it coming here? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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08-25-2011 02:00 PM