The 2007 Mercedes-Benz B-Class
Comprehensive Press Release
Just as the values, goals, lifestyles and interests of people change, so do their expectations of the automobile. The experience factor is gaining in importance, but comfort, practicality, attractiveness and performance are also expected. Present vehicle concepts can only offer these attributes in part.
With the expertise of its engineers, the creativity of its designers and the knowledge of its product planners, the trendsetter among the automobile brands has developed a vehicle that combines the advantages of a sport sedan, SUV and a wagon. The result is the B-Class – spacious and comfortable, dynamic and confident, attractive and safe.
The B-Class also embodies the typical characteristics that mark the car as a Mercedes-Benz and make it unmistakable in safety, innovation, reliability and the prestigious character of a premium automobile.
Dimensions: compact car on the outside, large-sedan comfort inside
Despite its compact external dimensions, the body of the B-Class has a length of 4,270 millimetres – this five-seater offers the space and comfort of larger sedans or wagons. This is the result of a sophisticated dimensional concept based on the sandwich principle developed by Mercedes-Benz. The engine and transmission are partially in front of and partially beneath the body to save space. Consequently, almost 70 percent of the body length is available for the occupants and their luggage, an outstanding example of economy of space.
Another advantage is the long wheelbase of 2,778 millimetres, which particularly benefits the ride comfort and passengers in the rear: the distance between the seats is 840 millimetres, and at 88 millimetres, the knee-room in the rear sets a new standard for cars of this size.
Design: athletic ambience
Extravagant design awakens immediate enthusiasm for this innovative vehicle. Typical styling features include the silver-painted radiator grille with four horizontal bars (three on the B200 Turbo) and the integral Mercedes-Benz star, the arrowed front end and the striking contour of the hood. These give the front end a wide and aggressive appearance, symbolizing power, effortless assurance and performance. Viewed from the side, a combination of soft contours and tightly drawn lines provide a dramatic interaction. Emphasising the wedge-shape of the body, a prominent waistline from the front fenders to the rear light clusters rises slightly to the rear, giving the B-Class the dynamic and athletic character.
Dynamism: agile handling and effortless performance
High-torque engines, newly developed transmissions, the latest safety systems and a sophisticated suspension design provide a driving experience that meets both performance and comfort requirements in equal measure.
Two engines are available – a normally aspirated two litre four cylinder and a turbocharged two litre four cylinder. The non-turbocharged is paired with a five-speed manual and a new six-speed manual transmission is standard for the turbocharged engine.
The extensive standard appointments of the new B-Class not only include air conditioning, head/thorax side bags for the front passengers, adaptive belt force limiters and projection-beam headlamps, but the most up-to-date handling safety features: Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) and Brake Assist (BAS). The newly developed STEER CONTROL steering assistance system is also on board for the first time; helping the driver to keep the vehicle on course in critical situations.
For the complete press release please download the PDF.
