Mercedes' new B-Class hatchback will be one of the most aerodynamic cars available when it goes on sale at the end of 2011.
The B-Class will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and will show off its new shape, which has a drag coefficient of just 0.26Cd. This low figure is achieved with the help of details such as a serrated wheelarch spoiler. An optional ECO Technology pack will be available after launch that further lowers the Cd figure to 0.24.
The new range of small turbo petrol and diesel engines, and dual-clutch gearboxes, also offer reduced emissions and improved economy. A stop-start system will be standard on all models, too.
From launch, a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine will be offered in 122- and 156bhp forms in the B180 and B200 respectively. A 1.8-litre turbodiesel comes with 109bhp in the B180 CDI and 136bhp in the B200 CDI. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard on most models, with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox an option.
The new B-Class will also feature a host of safety equipment including Collision Prevention Assist to help avoid accidents at speeds of up to 19mph. Also available will be Attention Assist, Pre-Safe, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, as well as Distronic Plus.
Although 86mm lower than the car it replaces, the new B-Class has more interior space than the outgoing model and the front passenger seat back can fold forward to accommodate longer loads.
Expect to see the new Mercedes B-Class on sale in the UK in November. Merc will announce prices closer to the launch date.
The new engine and gearbox combination offer 48.7mpg and 152g/km of CO2 - not bad for an all-wheel driver motor.
This new model coincides with a new Standard trim level being introduced to the A7 range that starts at £39,995. The new A7 3.0 TDI 204 quattro starts from £41,675.
Alisdair Suttie - 12 Jul 2011
