• Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I drive a Mercedes B Class.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    No idea.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No. It is a very average, fairly practical car but does nothing well and is little more than a tool.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    VW Polo.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    May 2010

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I got it on a company lease scheme so good purchase price and reasonable finance.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    I wanted an MPV-type car that was a bit different.

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very, very mediocre. The engine is very noisy for a 'modern' diesel, although it pulls well enough when prodded. It has an odd combination of wheelbase and steering angle that makes the turning circle ENORMOUS; even after 2 years of driving it I still get caught out when parking and have to have another bite at it. The suspension is firm (even with the optional 'comfort' springs on it) but it doesn't handle that well, pushing wide under the slightest provocation. It munches up motorway miles capably enough and the kids have no problems in it.

    What's it like to park?

    Terrible. A long wheelbase and limited steering lock give it a large turning circle and makes parking awkward. I even got MB to look at the steering geometry as I couldn't believe it was so bad and that, on full lock, it should scrub the tyres so badly, but it is and it does (steering was reportedly 'fine').

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing. It has been absolutely reliable and everything works as it should.

    What's most practical about your car?

    It has a nice, high seating position and decent rear legroom for child seats.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Nothing stands out.