Mercedes-Benz B-Class dimensions

Mercedes call the Mercedes-Benz B-class a sports tourer rather than an MPV, but its real competitors are people carriers such as the Ford C-MAX and Renault Scenic. It's a striking and upmarket-looking car though, and looks surprisingly sporty for such a vehicle the lines along the sides represent flair rarely seen on a practical MPV. Mercedes has sculpted the Mercedes-Benz B-class into the most aerodynamic shape in its class -  it’s five centimetres lower than the old model, without a reduction of dashboard room.

Mercedes say the new Mercedes-Benz B-class is more practical than the old vehicle, and while it lacks the flexibility of competitors like the Vauxhall Meriva, or larger Zafira, there is more room. This is largely thanks to Mercedes scrapping the double floor setup which allowed a flat floor at the expense of room elsewhere. In response to buyer feedback, the steering position is more upright, and the driver sits higher than the car's low roofline would suggest, making it very convenient. The auxillary EASY-VARIO-PLUS system enables the back seatings to slide by 140mm, increasing boot room from 486 to 666 litres, and provides a foldable front passenger bench to increase room further. Room in the back is good for two, but the addition of a transmission tunnel despite it being a front-wheel drive vehicle robs legroom for the fifth passenger. But despite this, the Mercedes-Benz B-class has class-leading back legroom.

Two grades are offered: SE and Sport and both are well equipped. SE contains 16-inch alloys, chrome trims, USB connectivity, active park assistance, air-con and front and back electric windows, while the Sport adds 18-inch wheels with run flat tyres, sport suspension, Artico man-made leather upholstery, bi-xenon headlights, reversing camera and tinted glass. A number of feature packs are available additionally to individual features, including internet connectivity via a compatible smartphone.