The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a rare thing in this day and age, a five-seat MPV that’s based on a car and not a van. To be exact, that car is an A-Class so this family hauler should make running the kids to nursery a more premium experience. Cars of this type have been swept aside by more popular (and less practical) SUVs, but that’s not to say this one doesn’t have lots of advantages over the GLA, a car it shares its platform with.

There aren’t many alternatives, if this is your thing. The B-Class’s biggest rival is the 1 Series-based BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, another small but posh MPV, that also comes with a sliding rear bench to improve bootspace or legroom. It gets the option of plug-in hybrid and higher performing petrol engines – and similarly crosses over with an SUV in its model range, in this case the X1.

Audi and the other premium brands don’t offer anything comparable, but you could always consider the Volkswagen Touran which scores for being a seven-seater. Other than that, you’re basically looking at van-based alternatives like the Ford Tourneo Connect and Citroen Berlingo. So, what you’ve got here is effectively a straight fight with the BMW.

An update in 2023 trimmed down the engine range to the B200 petrol and B200d diesel, although there’s still a broad selection of trims, which reflects its slow sales. Despite that, Mercedes-Benz has thrown the kitchen sink at it – even the entry-level Sport gets an electric tailgate, LED lights front and rear, single-zone climate control, heated front seats and a reversing camera. AMG Line Executive largely brings more aggressive styling inside and out but does add 40/20/40 split folding rear seats.

AMG Line Premium is worth considering if you must have the looks, giving you two-zone climate control, blind spot assist and an upgraded stereo. As for AMG Line Premium Plus, it gets all the bells and whistles including electrically adjustable front seats with memory, a head-up display, 360 degree camera system, adaptive headlights, an opening panoramic roof and 19-inch wheels.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll let you know how practical the B-Class is and just how plush it feels inside. We’ll also cover the driving experience including comfort, handling and efficiency, plus other burdens on you bank balance. By the time you click through to the verdict, you’ll know if the B-Class is any good and if there’s something else you should look at instead.

Over the next few pages, we’ll review each aspect of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, reflecting on its practicality, interior quality, technology, running costs and driving experience. Read on for everything you need to know about this small and practical family MPV, or head over to our how we test cars page to find out why we put cars through the trials that we do.