The Mercedes-Benz B-Class wasn't supposed to be unveiled until today (August 25), but thanks to the sieve-like nature of the internet it was everywhere yesterday.
And that's about as exciting as it gets; although the new B-Class looks better in every way. And, obviously, it's bigger as well, and more efficient. Update complete.
Mercedes says it's a "quantum leap in terms of higher fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions." Presumably that means lower consumption or higher economy, but you get the idea.
We're also promised class-leading driving dynamics from a car that's lower but has more interior space; the boot is a huge 488 litres, and up to a devilishly large 666 if you specify the Easy-Vario-Plus seating system that allows the rear seats to slide back and forth.
Most notable is how far upmarket the cabin has moved, with - and yes, this is an obvious thing to say - hints of the SLS AMG. Matte wood trim is available, and the dash can be swathed in Merc's fake leather stuff, called Artico. It gets the Comand system currently found in the C-Class upwards, with online functionality.
A new range of four-cylinder petrol engines debut in the B-Class, based on the same injection system used in Merc's latest V6 and V8 units. Initially there'll be two 1.6-litre versions: a 120bhp one in the B 180 and 154bhp in the B 200.
Most, we reckon, will plump for the diesels though, which put out 108bhp in the B 180 CDI and 134bhp in the B 200 CDI.
A seven-speed dual clutch transmission debuts in the B-Class, with stop-start capability.
Safety is seen to with the introduction of Pre-Safe for the first time in a small Merc; it's the first application of any such system in a B-segment car. Pre-Safe mitigates crashes by pre-tightening the belts, closing the windows and putting the seat in an 'ideal' position for impact within milliseconds of a crash being deemed imminent.
Mark Nichol - 25 Aug 2011
