Mercedes-Benz B-Class (05-11) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 23 February 2011
Mercedes describes the B-Class as a compact sports tourer, but in reality it's as close as you'll get to a conventional people carrier from the German firm. It's slightly shorter in length than a Ford Focus C-MAX but has a similarly tall shape, meaning plenty of room for passengers. Compared to a standard hatchback it's certainly more spacious in the back, but it's a surprise that it is only available with five-seats, when cheaper alternatives like the Volkswagen Touran can transport seven. It handles safely but the steering is a let down and the artificial feel robs the driver of feedback. It's also not cheap to buy new, but strong reliability means it's a dependable choice as a used purchase. In mid-2008 it was facelifted with sharper looks, an improved interior and cleaner engines.
3 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£17,710 - £25,210

Used price range:

£4,739 - £19,205

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Extremely versatile, plenty of interior space, decent diesels, low-emissions versions available

Ungainly styling, wooden to drive, only five seats, expensive options

Mercedes describes the B-Class as a compact sports tourer, but in reality it's as close as you'll get to a conventional people carrier from the German firm. It's slightly shorter in length than a Ford Focus C-MAX but has a similarly tall shape, meaning plenty of room for passengers. Compared to a standard hatchback it's certainly more spacious in the back, but it's a surprise that it is only available with five-seats, when cheaper alternatives like the Volkswagen Touran can transport seven. It handles safely but the steering is a let down and the artificial feel robs the driver of feedback. It's also not cheap to buy new, but strong reliability means it's a dependable choice as a used purchase. In mid-2008 it was facelifted with sharper looks, an improved interior and cleaner engines.

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