·        16 and 17-inch light-alloy wheels

 

·        6 CD changer

 

·        Anti-theft alarm

 

·        Automatically dimming rear-view mirror

 

·        AUTOTRONIC automatic transmission

 

·        Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Light System, cornering lights and headlamp washer system

 

·        COMAND

 

 

·        Front seats electrically adjustable

 

·        Leather upholstery

 

·        Panoramic louvred sunroof

 

·        harman/kardon premium sound system

 

 

Packages: attractive offers for more individuality and practicality

 

In the new B-Class, Mercedes-Benz meets the wishes of today’s customers for more individuality with attractive equipment packages. These particularly enhance three attributes of the Compact Sport Tourer, namely its elegance, dynamism and practicality.

 

 

The exterior chrome package (optional for the B200 only) includes:

 

 

·         Exterior mirrors in the vehicle colour

 

·         Fog lamps with chrome surround

 

·         Radiator with chrome strips

 

·         Rub strips and door handles with chrome inserts

 

·         Side skirts in vehicle colour

 

·         Stainless steel exhaust tailpipe

 

·         Waistline trim strip, loading sill and loading floor handle in chrome

 

·         Windshield with band filter

 

 

In addition, Mercedes-Benz has put together equipment packages that further improve lighting, visibility and comfort:

 

 

Exterior lighting and visibility package:

 

 

·         Bulb failure indicator

 

·         Failsafe light function

 

·         Headlamp Assist

 

·         Headlamp switch-off delay

 

·         Locator lighting

 

·         Rain sensor for the windshield wipers

 

·         Windshield with band filter

 

 

Interior lighting package:

 

 

·        Entry/exit lights in the side mirrors

 

·         Front footwell lights

 

·         Reading lamp for the driver

 

·         Reading lamps in the rear

 

·         Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors

 

Design:  Poised, assured presence

 

Mercedes-Benz designers had to create a versatile, compact and yet spacious automobile. The result is an innovative concept with its own design idiom: the Compact Sport Tourer. Although it offers the space and comfort of larger sedans or wagons, the B-Class with its clear contours and tightly drawn lines suggests sporty, forward-flowing energy and creates the urge to take it for a drive.

 

 

 

Both the aggressive appearance of the car as it stands on the road and the clear, striking lines, finely balanced proportions and carefully styled details make a direct appeal to the emotions. The poised character of the B-Class is enhanced by the impeccably finished interior with its high-quality materials.

 

 

Front end: width symbolizes power and performance

 

 

As a result of its pronounced wedge-shape, the front end of the new B-Class immediately makes a sporty and dynamic impression. The discreet, but effective ridge along the centre of the hood clearly delineated from the front fenders, defines the nose of the vehicle and creates a strong line between the roof pillars and front bumper.

 

 

Tightly drawn, sharp lines create an intriguing light-and-shade effect and then blend into the A-pillars in a dynamic curve to continue this racy profile to the rear end.

 

 

A wide, relatively upright radiator grille with four horizontal bars (three on the B200 Turbo) sports the Mercedes star in the centre, which dominates the front end. Along its entire horizontal line, the front bumper features a large air intake aperture with fog lamps set into separate frames, providing an aggressive transition between the new B-Class and the road surface. This pronounced emphasis on width unmistakably suggests attributes such as power, poise and performance.

 

 

Side view: striking character line as a point of interest

 

 

The silhouette of the car shows an obvious two-box concept; characterized by the long, tightly drawn arch of the roofline supported by the heavily inclined D-pillar and rounded off by the pronounced dip of the rear end.

 

 

From the front wheel fenders a sharply drawn shoulder line rises towards the rear, continuing into and ending harmoniously in the rear light clusters. This prominent character line, which has become a distinguishing Mercedes feature, emphasizes the car’s length and underlines the dynamic, powerful character of the new B-Class.

 

 

The emotional character is accentuated by the large side window area that tapers at the rear for a sporty look, but in no way detracts from the feeling of generous space enjoyed by the occupants. Reinforcing the impression of dynamic length are the B and C-pillars that are colour-matched with the windows forming a continuous visual surface.

 

 

The athletic proportions, made up of the tightly drawn lines and surfaces, a long wheelbase and short overhangs provide an attractive aspect from any angle.

 

 

Dynamically flowing lines of the front end and flanks are continued into the rear-end design. The upper edges of the rear light clusters create an unbroken extension of the shoulder line and thereby integrate and structure the rear aspect.

 

 

A very wide rear window, with a slight wrap-around and a subtle spoiler lip visually reduce the height of the car while emphasising its width. Horizontal lines and a high bumper accentuate these powerful contours.

 

 

Interior: design and feel create a harmonious composition

 

 

The designers have continued the powerful design idiom of the body into the interior, in order to emphasise the unmistakable character of the new B-Class even more. Tightly drawn and crisp lines characterize the interior.

 

 

 

The highest quality, attention to detail and a feeling of generous spaciousness is conveyed by the new B-Class. In conjunction with the generous space, pleasant feel of all surface materials and large areas of glass, the harmonious composition of shapes, colours and materials create a definite feel-good atmosphere for enjoyable driving. This is enhanced by the high seating position, which also aids visibility, while the high waistline creates a feeling of safety without confinement. An even more airy and bright atmosphere is created by the optional panoramic sliding sunroof with its innovative louvre technology.

 

 

Cockpit: steering wheel and instruments convey sporty elegance and precision

 

A slim yet striking chrome strip divides the upper and lower sections of the dashboard, emphasizing its width and accentuating the spaciousness of the interior. A newly designed, black, four-spoke steering wheel with multifunction buttons is on the B200, while the B200 Turbo’s steering wheel is accented with brushed aluminium on the lower spokes.  

 

 

The centre console blends in smoothly with the interior design concept, framed by vertical aluminium trim strips on the left and right. These elegantly integrated trim strips repeat in the area of the shift lever and the door panels to enhance the interior appointments.

 

 

The main controls for the heating, air conditioning and communication facilities such as the radio and optional navigation system are conveniently positioned directly below the centre vents. Finely milled edges on the rotary switches, ergonomic controls and high-quality buttons reflect the high level of precision by their feel. The centre console is extended with a high tunnel cover featuring a centre armrest with an integral storage drawer that can be adjusted fore-and-aft.

 

 

Doors: shape and materials ensure an all-round feeling of security

 

The door panels reflect the basic shape of the dashboard and continue this into the armrests, which house the switches for the power windows. High quality, homogenous materials provide a harmonious transition from the dashboard to the doors, ensuring an optimal continuity and avoid any break in visual or tactile impressions.  All the doors feature spacious door pockets next to circular loudspeaker grilles with slim chrome trim.

 

Bodywork and safety:

 

Solid workmanship

 

The sandwich concept developed and patented by Mercedes-Benz, which has been proving its worth in hundreds of thousands of cases since 1997, is the centrepiece of the safety concept in the new B-Class. Since the engine and transmission are mounted in an inclined position partially in front of and partially beneath the passenger cell, this rigid drive unit is not moved backwards into the passenger cell during a severe frontal impact, but slides downwards along the inclined pedal floor panel. Accordingly, this concept resolves the conflict between compact vehicle dimensions with short deformation zones and the need for a level of occupant protection that is typical of a Mercedes-Benz.

 

 

 

Many other measures contribute to the exemplary level of safety. Such as the high-strength bonded connections in the bodyshell structure, whose stress-bearing capability has been significantly increased by this new joining technology. These high-strength bonded seams supplement conventional techniques such as spot-welding and interlocking joints, giving the bodyshell much greater stability. Moreover, around 67 percent of all the sheet metal used in the body structure are of high-strength or very high-strength steel alloys.

 

 

Thanks to a careful choice of materials and sophisticated joining technology, the front-end structure of the new B-Class has a high deformation resistance that increases greatly after only a short deformation path and remains at a high level throughout the entire crash phase. This means that the occupants take part in the vehicle’s deceleration earlier and for a longer period during a frontal collision, reducing the loads acting on their bodies.

 

 

The most important features of the front-end structure are...

 

 

·         Two straight side members of high-strength steel with upstream crash boxes of high-strength steel and a box-sectioned transverse member of extruded aluminium. These crash boxes have proved highly effective during low-speed collisions (up to a maximum of 15 km/h), and are inexpensive to repair thanks to bolted connections. The front end side members are offset in the under-floor area, where they are joined to the structural side members (sills); 

 

 

·         two side member sections above the wheel fenders form an additional energy-absorption path during an offset frontal collision;

 

 

·         The multi-piece integral member on which the engine, transmission, steering and front axle are mounted is connected to the body shell at eight points. In the event of a severe frontal impact, the central and rear connecting points are designed to shear to allow the drive unit to slide downwards. During the process it is retained by the front connecting points with the integral member;

 

 

·         The front wheels are supported by the side members and during a collision help to dissipate impact energy. 

 

 

If the front body structure is subjected to severe one-sided loads, robust cross-members ensure that the impact forces are dissipated over a wide area. This also activates deformation zones on the opposite side of the impact to absorb the crash energy. Such cross-members are for example, located above the inclined pedal floor, beneath the windshield and the ends are supported by the A-pillars.

 

 

Floor structure: the reliable backbone of the passenger cell

 

Mercedes engineers configured the crash-resistance of the passenger cell to complement the deformation resistance of the front-end structure. The floor structure (the high-strength backbone of the passenger cell) features a central tunnel, side members and sectioned cross-members attached below them to create a robust structure. The main floor consists of several metal sheets of varying thicknesses, which are joined by laser-welding. 

 

 

 

The patented sandwich concept of the B-Class shows its strength in the event of a side impact. Occupants are seated around 200 millimetres higher than in a conventional sedan. During a lateral collision with a typical passenger car, the latter’s side members strike the body structure of the B-Class where it is strongest, at the height of the structural members. The impact is taken up by the robust side member, which consists of two continuous rolled sections of very high strength. The internal skins of the side walls consist of several components and feature reinforced nodal connections between the roof pillars, the roof frame and the side members. The A-pillars are double-skinned and supported by robust cross-members at several levels.

 

 

Rear-end structure: crash boxes and side members with large impact zones

 

During a rear-end collision, two box-section rear side members help to absorb the impact energy and dissipate the resulting forces. Like their equivalents at the front end, they are offset outwards to create a connection with the side members which also absorb forces during a severe rear-end collision. The fuel tank is located in front of the rear axle. A flexible transverse member of hot-formed, very high-strength steel joins the two rear side members, which is capable of withstanding extreme loads. The flexible member is bolted in place, like the two crash boxes in front of the side members. The parabolic rear axle is attached to a further longitudinal member along the centre of the vehicle.

 

 

Restraint systems: two-stage air bag activation depending on accident severity

 

The technology of the restraint systems in the interior of the new B-Class corresponds to the high standard found in all Mercedes-Benz models. This means:

 

 

·         Adaptive front air bags that have been developed to reflect the latest accident research findings: during a collision of medium severity, the electronic control unit only ignites one stage of the gas generator, and the air bag inflates more gently. Should the control unit detect a severe collision, however, it deploys the second stage of the driver and front passenger air bags a few milliseconds later. A new folding process and low rupture forces at the air bag flap in the dashboard also ensure that the front passenger air bag deploys more gently.

 

 

·         Front and rear belt tensioners: in addition to the front seats, the outer rear seats in the B-Class are equipped with belt tensioners. A seat belt status display in the instrument cluster informs the driver whether the passengers in the rear are wearing their seat belts.

 

 

·         Adaptive belt force limiters for the driver and front passenger: the standard belt force limiters for the front seat belts adapt to the relevant deceleration conditions as required. When the seat belt has been tensioned during the early impact phase, the belt is initially tight against the body of the occupant. The adaptive force limiter ensures that a higher restraining force is initially applied. As the occupant sinks into the air bag and is additionally restrained, the system slightly slackens the seat belt and reduces the belt force to keep the loads acting on the chest of the occupant at the same low level. 

 

 

·         Head/thorax side bags in the front and rear seats: this Mercedes development provides dual protection during a lateral impact. The asymmetrically shaped air bag extends upwards and reduces the risk of head impact against the side window or penetrating objects. The lower section of the head/thorax side bag inflates between the door and the occupant, covering a wide area at chest level.

 

The effective restraint system of the new B-Class at a glance:

 

 

	Front seats	Rear seats
Inertial-reel belts	s	s
Belt tensioners	s	s On the outer seats
Belt force limiters	s Adaptive	--
Belt status information	s Acoustic warning	s Cockpit display
Automatic front   passenger recognition	s In front passenger seat	--
Head restraints, adjustable for angle and height	s Active head restraints	s Retractable
Front air bags, two-stage	s	--
Head/thorax bags	s	--
Window bags	s	s
Rear side bags	s	s
ISOFIX attachments	--	s

s = Standard

 

 

Service-friendly: bolts instead of welded connections

 

 

Energy-absorbing bumpers, bolted connections for the front and rear-end modules and crash boxes in the front-end and rear-end structures are the major components of a sophisticated concept which helps to reduce the cost of accident repairs. Specifically designed components absorb energy during a low-speed crash protecting the body structure against damage.

 

 

The plastic front bumper with integral foam elements absorbs impact energy at speeds up to approximately three km/h. The absorbent material automatically returns to its former shape after the crash. An extruded aluminium section supports the bumper and acts as an energy absorber. Together with the crash boxes, headlamp mountings and radiator console it forms a robust front-end module that absorbs energy during accidents with impact speeds of up to 15 km/h. The crash boxes are bolted to the front side members and like the complete front-end module – can be replaced without troublesome welding work. 

 

 

The rear bumper has the same elastic deformation characteristics as the front bumper, and remains undamaged after impacts at speeds up to three km/h. Bolted to the body structure are robust, flexible members with crash boxes that are easy to replace and absorb more severe impacts. These members take up crash energy at collision speeds up to approx. 15 km/h, leaving the forward body structure undamaged.

 

 

The bumpers and doors of the new B-Class feature plastic rub strips that protect the body against damage. Scratched or damaged rub strips can be repaired easily.

 

 

Corrosion protection: fully galvanized, partly double-coated body panels

 

 

Mercedes-Benz has developed an effective package of measures for long-term anti-corrosion protection. This is based on fully galvanized body panels, some of which have an additional organic coating on both sides depending on their location, e.g. on the doors or on the front, side and rear longitudinal members. This coating also contains rust-inhibiting zinc pigments. Mercedes-Benz also protects the most vulnerable structural areas of the bodywork with a cavity-fill preserving agent, for example on the front side members, the upper side member plane, the doorsills and the rear wheel fenders. The Mercedes-Benz experts also weather-seal the welding seams in order to prevent the onset of corrosion. This seam sealing benefits not only the hood, doors, tailgate, rear wheel fenders and flap over the fuel filler cap, but also a large proportion of the welded joints in the floor structure of the new B-Class, including the spare tire and battery recesses.  

 

 

Using plastic for a large area of the under body panelling has allowed Mercedes engineers to dispense with conventional PVC under seal. In addition to its aerodynamic benefits, the under body panelling protects the body from stone chippings, water and soiling.

 

 

 

The bodywork is given a long-lasting sheen by an improved powder-based clearcoat that can be applied without the use of solvents. All the other paint materials are also water-soluble and largely free of chemical solvents.

 

 

Aerodynamics: excellent drag coefficient

 

 

Mercedes engineers have given the new B-Class outstanding aerodynamic characteristics with the help of the latest development and test procedures. The low Cd value of 0.31 creates important conditions for favourable fuel consumption and a high level of handling safety.

 

 

Various measures have helped to achieve these results:

 

 

·         The aerodynamically efficient shape of the front and rear bumpers

 

·         Effective sealing and airflow measures around the radiator grille

 

·         Side skirt panelling

 

·         The exterior mirror housings, whose shape was optimized in the wind tunnel

 

·         The airflow breakaway edge on the upper section of the tailgate

 

·         Spoilers in front of the front wheels

 

·         Panelling around the spare tire recess, which acts as an air diffuser;

 

·         Plastic panelling around the Watt linkage of the parabolic rear axle

 

 

Aero-acoustics: sophisticated measures against wind noise

 

 

The low noise level in the interior of the new B-Class is the result of painstaking research in the aero-acoustic tunnel, where Mercedes engineers have developed an extensive package of measures to reduce wind noise. Including continuous door seals with up to three sealing levels, and mounting the exterior mirrors in an acoustically favourable position on the front edge of the door frames.

 

 

Perceptual safety: clean windows and efficient wipers

 

The exterior mirrors and side windows remain clean even in the rain as a result of successful aerodynamics and provide a major benefit in terms of driving safety. Trim strips on the A-pillars designed to act as drainage channels achieve this. Rainwater striking the windshield is collected in these channels and conducted away with the help of the slipstream, across the roof and to the rear. It then flows into a drainage channel between the tailgate and the rear edge of the roof and guided downwards by side channels. The design of the exterior mirror housings allows rainwater to flow to the outside in an unobtrusive spoiler edge and drain away. These measures ensure that rainwater drains away at a very shallow angle and is carried to the rear by the slipstream leaving the side windows to remain clear as a result.

 

 

 

 

To ensure good visibility through the windshield in the rain, Mercedes-Benz has developed an efficient wiper system consisting of two opposed wiper arms. The wiper blades have a length of 650 and 580 millimetres, and clean 81 percent of the windshield. The modern aero-wiper technology employed has further advantages: instead of the articulated retention system used for conventional wiper blades, in which the rubber blades are claw-mounted, the aero wiper consists of a one-piece rubber section with an integral spoiler and externally mounted spring rails, following the curve of the windshield. The spring rails ensure an even distribution of wiper pressure along the entire length of the wiper blade, so that it always operates with the greatest possible contact pressure. The result is significantly better wiping quality, even in heavy snow.  The optional rain sensor system controls the wiper intervals according to the level of rainfall. This is available as part of the light and sight package.

 

 

Headlamps: projection-beam technology as standard

 

 

The wide, sweeping headlamps, which blend harmoniously into the surface of the front end, contribute to the powerful, sporty appearance of the new B-Class. Their clear plastic lenses reveal up-to-date lighting technology that ensures wide, uniform illumination of the road surface and make a major contribution to safe driving in the dark.

 

 

As standard, the new B-Class is equipped with projection-type halogen low-beam headlamps (H7 bulbs) with chrome-plated cylinders. The reflector-type halogen high-beam with an H7 bulb is separately accommodated in the headlamp housing. Sidelights provide a further accentuating feature and characterize the night-design of the new B-Class. The fog lamps are housed in the front bumper.

 

 

Active bi-xenon headlamps with cornering lights and headlamp washers are available as an option on the B-Class. Bi-xenon means that only one lamp is required for high and low-beam. For high-beam lighting the full light output is used, when low-beam is selected a shutter is inserted between the lamp and the lens, which obscures part of the beam of light. Both in the low and high-beam function the bi-xenon headlamps automatically follow the steering movements of the driver and immediately pivot sideways when the car enters a bend. This improves road illumination by up to 90 percent. The normal illumination range when entering a bend with a radius of 190 metres is approx. 30 metres, this increases by 25 metres with active headlamps. As the light distribution corresponds to the relevant steering angle, the driver is able to recognize the course taken by the road better than with conventional low-beam headlamps. In the speed range between 40 and 70 km/h, the active headlamps are supported by an auxiliary spotlight.

 

Cornering lamps illuminate the area to one side of the vehicle to an angle of up to 65 degrees and a distance of up to 30 metres and reveal areas of the road normally not visible with conventional headlamp technology, allowing drivers to see cyclists and pedestrians beside the vehicle more clearly in the dark. The driver also has better orientation when taking bends at low speed.

 

Optional: Headlamp Assist and Rain Sensor as a package

 

 

The optional Headlamp Assist automatically switches on the vehicles interior lights when darkness falls or the car enters a tunnel. It is part of the light and sight package, which also includes a blue windshield band filter, a headlamp switch-off delay, locator lighting, a rain sensor for the windshield wipers and additional functions such as emergency and failsafe lighting.

 

 

Sliding sunroof: louvred system with panoramic effect

 

 

A newly developed, louvred panoramic sliding sunroof provides the occupants of the new B-Class with a unique open-air experience, and contributes to the bright, friendly interior atmosphere of the Compact Sport Tourer when closed. Thanks to its space-saving technology, the roof aperture is around 60 percent larger than with a conventional sunroof. The louvres (bars) are tinted plastic and protected with a scratch-resistant coating, which also prevents transmission of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. A manually operated roller blind on the inside of the louvred panoramic roof provides additional sun protection. It is operational when the roof is open and the air-permeable weave of the blind acts as a draught-stop.

 

 

When the sliding roof is opened by pressing the operating switch, the first louvre is raised first and remains in this position as a wind deflector. Pressing the switch again causes the other four bars to slide to the rear and form an obliquely angled pack. 

 

 

Interior: Added pleasure

 

 

The sandwich concept not only offers advantages in terms of safety, it enables the available space to be divided up very advantageously. The drive unit is accommodated partially in front of and partially beneath the body, and other components such as the battery, activated charcoal filter, fuses, electronic control units and the fuel tank are located under the passenger cell, creating a spacious interior with a high level of comfort for the occupants. Almost 70 percent of the body length is available for the occupants and their luggage – an outstanding result in automotive dimensional engineering, which creates the ideal conditions for optimal long-distance comfort.

 

The new B-Class benefits from a spaciousness of the interior due to a long wheelbase of 2778 millimetres – a figure with which the compact B-Class approaches a level reserved only for luxury class cars just a few years ago. The major figures at a glance:

 

Body (millimetres) Length/Width/Height	[1]:                  4,270/1,777/1,604
Wheelbase (millimetres)	2,778
Interior (millimetres)   - Shoulder-room front/rear   - Hip-room front/rear   - Elbow-room front/rear   - Headroom front/rear   - Distance between seats**   - Knee-room rear	1,411/1,382 1,362/1,355 1,422/1,446 989/980 840 88
Luggage capacity (litres)	550–1,645

**From front hip ref. point to rear hip ref. point

 

Storage: air-conditioned glove compartment plus cup holders for all occupants

 

 

Practicality and variability are attributes that characterize the interior of the new B-Class. Mercedes engineers have taken the greatest care to ensure that all the components in the interior are fully able to meet the requirements of day-to-day driving. The spacious storage compartments are a good example:

 

 

·         The compartments in the interior front door panels are designed to accommodate a road atlas and a 1-litre plastic bottle. Bottles or cans with a capacity of up to 0.5 litres can be stowed in the rear door pockets.

 

 

·         The centre console and tunnel covering provide further storage space; behind the shift lever, there is a cup holder and a compartment with a drawer in which a mobile phone can be carried.

 

 

·         The capacity of the air-conditioned glove compartment is 8.5 litres, which means that in addition to various knick-knacks it has sufficient room for the optional 6-CD changer.

 

 

Load capacity: from 550 to 1645 litres

 

 

The interior of the new B-Class can be quickly and easily adapted to suit various tasks. The main components of the conversion concept are the load compartment floor, which is height-adjustable by 90 millimetres and the fold down rear seats. If the generous luggage capacity behind the rear seats (550 litres) proves insufficient, the 1/3 to 2/3 division in the rear seat unit provides plenty of options for creating more space. The seat cushions and the backrests can be individually or jointly folded forward to increase the length of the level load floor from 649 to 1547 millimetres and the capacity from 550 to up to 1645 litres.

 

Thanks to four-way manual adjustment, the seats in the new B-Class have plenty of scope to ensure that the driver and front passenger are comfortable. The driver’s seat has a total fore-and-aft adjustment of 260 millimetres and a height adjustment of 56 millimetres. If the driver changes the seat height, the seat cushion angle is automatically adjusted by up to six degrees to suit. The driver and front passenger are able to freely select the backrest angle, and if required the backrests can be fully reclined. Electrically adjustable front seats and head restraints are optionally available.

 

 

 

Dashboard: pleasant to the touch and with a high impression of quality

 

 

Touch and feel plus ergonomics were two major criteria during the development of the interior of the new B-Class. Surface materials, display instruments, switches and operating controls were critically examined from this perspective and selected after extensive testing.

 

 

 

One example is the single-piece dashboard, with precise edges and radii that are the result of an ultra-modern manufacturing process. Using a negative mould, a robot sprays on an outer skin of soft polyurethane with a surface that is very pleasant to the touch. This can be applied in different thicknesses as required. The process results in a homogenous surface with no interruptions in the form of joints or seams. 

 

 

A cross-member provides a stable base for the dashboard and its components. The glove compartment, air bag and centre console are attached to this robust structural member, which reduces resonances and vibrations. An assembly bulkhead closes the gap between the engine compartment and the interior, significantly reducing the engine noise transmitted to the interior.

 

 

Operating concept: clear instrument layout, ergonomically positioned controls

 

Easily legible dial instruments with chrome trim, black faces and white gauges keep the driver informed about the vehicle and engine speeds. Smaller instruments indicating the coolant temperature (left) and fuel level (right) are beside the speedometer and the tachometer. At the centre of the instrument cluster, the upper section of the divided central display shows the trip and total mileage, while the lower section displays the outside temperature and time and the current transmission mode and selector lever position for the optional continuously variable AUTOTRONIC automatic transmission.

 

 

The surfaces of the switches and controls in the centre console feature a special "soft touch" coating providing a soft, silky sheen. All the buttons and controls are arranged according to the latest ergonomic findings, and according to their frequency of use or visual considerations.

 

 

Right at the top, where it is easily accessible for both the driver and front passenger, there is the prominent red button for the hazard warning flasher system. Beneath this is the car radio or the optional navigation system with its easily visible colour display. The next row of controls is for the standard air conditioning, which is conveniently positioned with attractive rotary switches for manual selection of the fan speed (right) and air distribution (left).

 

 

Mercedes engineers have developed a special interior lighting package (optional) to ensure that the occupants of the new B-Class can find what they want and feel comfortable even during darkness. This includes separately switched reading lights on both sides in the rear, a reading light for the driver, sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, lights in the front foot wells and entry/exit lights in the side mirrors.

 

 

Climate control: high technology as standard

 

 

The B-Class is equipped with air conditioning as standard. The climate control centre features a sensor that monitors the temperature in the interior and ensures that the setting selected by the occupants remains constant. Other sensors measure the ambient temperature and humidity so that the air conditioning is controlled economically in conjunction with the infinitely variable refrigerant compressor. A solenoid valve carries out this humidity-related control function by varying the swept volume of the compressor, and therefore the cooling output.

 

 

 

 

The tunnel closing function is another special feature: if the driver holds down the air recirculation switch for approx. three seconds, the air recirculation flap in the air conditioning system and any power windows plus the optional sunroof are automatically closed. Pressing the switch again returns these to their previous position.

 

 

Audio systems: first-class entertainment and North American wide navigation

 

 

The new B-Class also offers a high-tech entertainment and communications systems:

 

 

·         The optional operating and display unit, COMAND combines the radio, navigation system and DVD/CD player. The centrepiece of the system is a large colour display (6.5") in modern TFT technology. The North American road network and a range of tourist destinations are stored on the navigation DVD. Route guidance is by means of a full-colour road map on the COMAND display, by guide arrows in the central display in the instrument cluster and by audio commands.

 

 

·         The standard Audio 20 CD car radio is equipped with an AM/FM/MW receiver. Up to ten stations can be stored in memory for each wavelength. The four-channel amplifier has an output of 4 x 25 Watts. The single in dash CD player is also able to play home-burned CDs. Automatic station search, Radio Data System and a scan function are some of the features of this unit.

 

 

In conjunction with the standard multifunction steering wheel, all Mercedes car radios offer excellent operating convenience. Numerous functions can be controlled so that the driver’s hands can remain on the steering wheel. These units also feature speed-dependent volume control: from approx. 20 km/h, the volume is increased in stages to suit the current driving situation.

 

 

For an even richer sound experience the optional harman/kardon surround sound system with ten loudspeakers, including active tweeters and woofers with separate amplifiers is available. 

 

Engines and transmissions:

 

A strong team

 

Two four-cylinder engines are available for the new B-Class. Their compact design is in accordance with the sandwich concept, enabling the drive unit to be installed at an oblique angle behind the front axle. This means that in a severe frontal collision, the engine and transmission are able to slide to the rear down the pedal floor panel without damaging the passenger cell. 

 

 

However, in addition to the unique, angled configuration and the compact dimensions of these the four-cylinder engines for the B-Class, they have plenty to offer in terms of engine technology as well. More output, more torque and more driving pleasure were the development objectives for these engines, and this was achieved together with equally remarkable progress with respect to environmental compatibility, economy and comfort.

 

 

Depending on the level of torque, the engines are matted to a five or six-speed manual transmission. The newly developed, continuously variable AUTOTRONIC transmission is also available as an option on all models.

 

 

Combination: dynamic driving pleasure with favourable fuel consumption

 

 

The key data of the gas engines for the new B-Class at a glance:

 

 

	B200	B200 TURBO
Cylinders/valves per cylinder	4/2	4/2
Displacement   cc	2,034	2,034
Output  hp	134@5750 rpm	190@5000 rpm
Max. torque lb-ft	136@3500–4000 rpm	206@1800 – 4850 rpm
0-100 km/h sec	10.1	7.6
Max. speed km/h	196	210

 

The lightweight engine consists of an aluminium crankcase with grey cast iron cylinder liners. The pistons, sump, oil pump, rocker arms, engine mounting, timing case and other engine components are also of aluminium, while the intake manifold, air filter and cylinder head cover are made from plastic.

 

 

The compact cylinder head features a swirl duct that creates high turbulence in the fuel/air mixture, ensuring an optimal combustion process. The central location of the spark plugs serves the same purpose. Valve control is via a hollow camshaft of induction-hardened forged steel and low-friction rocker arms. A timing chain with a hydraulic tensioner and rubber-coated sprockets drives the camshaft and a hydraulic system automatically controls valve clearance compensation.

 

 

Mercedes engineers have also achieved the high thermal efficiency of the spark-ignition engines with a high compression ratio of 11.0:1. This made it necessary to divide the water jacket into two sections: the lower section has a high speed of flow in order to cool the very hot combustion chamber areas, especially the webs between the intake valves – and therefore make this high compression ratio possible. The upper section cools the engine’s valve control system. In addition, the exhaust valves of the B200 and B200 TURBO are sodium-cooled.

 

 

More torque by virtue of a newly developed variable intake manifold

 

 

The air supply to the engine is improved considerably by a variable intake manifold with long intake ducts, consisting of three plastic shells and features an electro-pneumatically controlled actuation wheel that opens or closes the ducts according to the load and engine speed. At low engine speeds the intake air flows to the cylinders via four long intake ducts to obtain a high torque yield, this creates pressure waves in the intake ducts. At high engine speeds, the flaps close the intake ducts, so that the air takes a direct path to the combustion chambers via a short intake duct. The engine computer decides whether and when the actuation wheel opens or closes the ducts based on stored characteristic maps, which ensure optimal engine operation.

 

In the newly developed, turbocharged engine of the B-Class, the intake air flows from the air filter to the turbocharger, which is located in the exhaust manifold to save space. A pneumatically regulated waste-gate valve, dependant on the current engine operating point, controls the flow of exhaust gases required to drive the charger turbine. The compressed intake air flows from the turbocharger through an intercooler, which is linked to the throttle valve adjusting motor. The outstanding torque characteristics of the 190 hp engine confirm the high efficiency of the turbocharger. A special turbine geometry ensures excellent responsiveness even at low engine speeds, making an extremely wide torque plateau available between 1,800 and 4,850 rpm.

 

 

Automatic transmission: continuously variable driving pleasure with AUTOTRONIC

 

 

The newly developed AUTOTRONIC transmission is available as an option on all the B-Class models. It operates on the "continuously variable transmission" (CVT) principle, in which the ratios are selected with the help of a pulley wheel variator. Accordingly, it does not employ the paired gear wheels normally used in other automatic transmissions. The main advantages of the newly developed AUTOTRONIC compared to a conventional automatic transmission are improved ride comfort, more flexibility and more rapid acceleration:

 

 

• Ride comfort: The ratios are changed without jolting, engine rpm is lower at constant speed and the most suitable ratio is always selected on downhill gradients.

 

·         Acceleration: The ratios are changed without interrupting tractive power, the engine reaches its rated output more rapidly and the engine always performs at its best possible operating point.

 

 

The new AUTOTRONIC is just as easy to operate as a conventional Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission. The shift lever positions "P", "R", “N" and "D" correspond to the familiar shift gate. Pressing a button enables the driver to choose between two shift programs: "C" for Comfort and "S" for Sport. In the Comfort program, the transmission keeps the engine speed at the lowest possible level, so that the B-Class accelerates gently and uses less fuel. In the Sport program, AUTOTRONIC becomes adaptive: it automatically recognizes the individual driving style and adapts the gearshift strategy accordingly. If the driver has a more sporty driving style, the transmission makes higher performance reserves available by increasing the engine rpm.

 

 

 

In manual mode, which is activated by briefly nudging the shift lever sideways, AUTOTRONIC divides its complete ratio range into seven virtual stages. The gears are then smoothly shifted up or down by briefly nudging the shift lever to the left to upshift or to the right to downshift.  A display in the instrument cluster shows the gear currently selected.

 

 

The centrepiece of the AUTOTRONIC transmission is what is known as the variator, which consists of two pairs of pulley wheels, referred to as the primary and secondary disc sets by specialists. Both sets are made up of a fixed disc and a sliding disc, the latter being axially moveable with the help of a hydraulic pump at a pressure of up to 67 bar. Varying the pressures on the two sliding discs, both adjusts the contact pressure on the steel thrust belt and changes the radii of the belt on the primary and secondary sides.

 

 

In this way, the most suitable ratio is selected for any driving situation – immediately, smoothly and always very comfortably, so that the occupants of the B-Class hardly notice the AUTOTRONIC transmission in operation. The spread between the largest and smallest ratio is 6.41, which means that the ratio range is significantly wider than in a conventional five-speed automatic transmission. During hard acceleration, for example, AUTOTRONIC moves the sliding discs so that the steel thrust belt has maximum tension at the primary end and moves inwards between the secondary discs to select the highest ratio (2.72). The position of the variator is exactly the opposite for the lowest ratio (0.424).

 

 

The steel thrust belt, which moves between the discs, has a width of 30 millimetres and consists of 400 individual links. The complete AUTOTRONIC unit has a length of only 345 millimetres and is therefore the world’s most compact continuously variable automatic transmission. It contains only 334 components, the only gear wheels in the compact transmission housing belong to the reversal unit, which reverses the movement of the discs and thereby enables the vehicle to drive backwards.

 

 

The torque converter between the engine and the AUTOTRONIC transmission, helps the B-Class to move quickly and comfortably off the line. It is locked up in many operating situations to compensate for the slip between the pump and turbine wheels and prevents performance loss. The lockup clutch can be activated with a need-related rate of slip in all ratios, preventing drive train vibrations from being transmitted.

 

 

Manual transmission: six gears for the B200 Turbo

 

 

Standard on the B200 Turbo is a new six-speed manual transmission. Based on the three-shaft concept the Mercedes-Benz engineers have successfully incorporated six speeds in an aluminium housing that is almost as compact as the  five-speed transmission.

 

 

The three shafts, one drive shaft and two output shafts are constantly in mesh, gears 1 to 4 are transferred to the output shaft located outside the oil sump, allowing the six-speed transmission a high level of shift comfort even at low ambient temperatures. The sophisticated synchronization system for gears 1 to 4 has the same purpose, a triple cone in first and second gear, and a dual cone for third and fourth gear.

 

 

 

 

Gears 5, 6 and reverse gear are transmitted to the lower output shaft. Gear-shifting comfort was a primary concern during the development of the transmission. The linkages that control the selector forks on two levels are on roller bearings for particularly smooth operation. A module is mounted on the transmission to accommodate all the gearshift functions. These include the thrust bearings for control cable attachment, the levers for shift path and gear selection and the main shaft with the followers for the selector forks.

 

 

The shift lever is linked to the shift module by a control cable for selection of the individual gears. A hydraulic central release bearing ensures smooth, maintenance-free operation of the clutch, whose operating forces remain constant throughout the lifecycle of the B-Class. In the B200 and B200 TURBO, a dual-mass flywheel increases comfort even further.

 

 

 

Suspension: Dynamic experience

 

From the steering to the shock absorbers, from the brakes to the rear axle and from the Electronic Stability Program to the tires – Mercedes engineers have rigorously tested all the components of the suspension system and employed the latest technology to achieve the best possible handling safety and high performance.

 

 

Developed even further in the B-Class is the McPherson strut principle. The wheel is normally located by the spring strut, track rod and a camber arm with a transverse stabilizer and the front axle has additional rigid wishbones. These carry out the wheel location duties of the transverse stabilizer that is connected to the spring struts by torsion bars and newly developed rubber bearings. This provides better configuration possibilities for the suspension, especially where elasto-kinetics and ride comfort are concerned. This type of suspension also allows the caster and camber angles to precisely adjusted. The wishbones consist of two welded steel shells and are attached to the integral member with large rubber bearings.

 

 

The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering is a new development on the B-Class. The steering servo action is produced by an electric motor that does not transfer it hydraulically as before, but directly to the rack-and-pinion steering gear by mechanical means. This technology has a number of advantages: less weight, more compact dimensions, greater efficiency, a lower energy requirement and the ability to network with the Electronic Stability Program. However, the most important benefits are without doubt the additional functions, which this up-to-date steering system makes possible:

 

 

·         The electric motor is equipped with a microprocessor that is integrated into the databus network of the new B-Class. It regularly obtains updated information about the road speed, engine speed, steering angle and the torque at the torsion bar. The information can be used to meter the level of servo assistance in relation to speed, this is known as parameterization. The advantage is that the level of servo assistance is greater at low speeds than at high speeds. Parking and slow manoeuvring are therefore much easier than with a conventional power steering system. The speed-sensitive function is precisely configured and programmed for both the B200 and the B200 Turbo.

 

 

 

·         The direct steering ratio and great dynamism of this newly developed system ensures precise steering sensitivity. An active self-centring action provides additional help.

 

 

·         As the electric motor is only switched on when the steering is operated, the system uses less energy than a conventional hydraulic steering system, giving the B-Class better fuel economy.

 

 

·         The electromechanical steering operates without hydraulic fluid and is therefore easier to assemble and repair. This technology also benefits the environment, as no fluid needs to be disposed of. 

 

 

The very safe, space-saving sandwich concept of the B-Class enables the steering gear to be located in front of the wheel centre. This further improves the responsiveness of the steering, making the Compact Sport Tourer not only safe and easy to control, but provides a high level of driving pleasure by virtue of its light, problem-free handling and safe understeer characteristics.

 

 

The steering column consists of an upper steering shaft housed within a jacket tube and a lower, two-piece steering shaft with collapsible sections that in the event of a frontal impact prevent the steering column from penetrating into the interior. A universal joint connects the two steering shafts. The driver has various adjustment options for the four-spoke steering wheel, both tilt and telescopic. The standard multifunction steering wheel is made from die cast magnesium and has been designed to deform predictably during a crash. 

 

Rear axle: parabolic axle housing with Watt linkage

 

 

 

The parabolic rear axle of the B-Class is a new development and is intriguing by virtue of its designation. It is the result of several years of painstaking development and testing activities by Mercedes engineers, and makes a major contribution to the exemplary handling dynamics and high level of ride comfort in the new B-Class.

 

 

The centrepiece of this intelligent design is an axle housing of parabolic shape, which replaces conventional control arms. Separately located springs and shock absorbers, the torsion bar stabilizer and a centrally located elastomer bearing connect it to the vehicle body. A special linkage that is named after the ingenious British inventor James Watt provides wheel location and lateral support. The two arms of this Watt linkage are attached to the rear of the axle housing, while the middle is connected to the vehicle body by a pivoting coupling.

 

 

Precise wheel location and good anti-roll control are the major advantages of this newly developed rear axle. Thanks to this special axle technology, the springs and shock absorbers can be configured much more softly without compromising the outstanding handling dynamics. The wheel camber remains constant in any driving situation, which means that when negotiating bends, higher lateral forces between the tires and road surfaces can be transmitted than with a conventional axle. This further improves the inherent understeer characteristics of the new B-Class and therefore contributes to the high level of handling safety.

 

 

The combination of McPherson technology and a spherical parabolic rear axle allows favourable spring and damper ratios. At the rear axle of the new B-Class, Mercedes-Benz uses coil springs, single-tube shock absorbers and a torsion bar stabilizer. The springs and dampers are separately located. The large elastomer central bearing that connects the axle housing to the body provides good structure-borne sound insulation and reduces vibrations to a minimum.

 

 

Damping system: shock absorber characteristics to suit the driving situation

 

 

 

The suspension system of the new B-Class has an innovative, selective damping system. It operates hydro-mechanically and requires no complex sensors or electronics. Understanding the way this works requires a brief excursion into the inside of a modern shock absorber. In a conventional shock absorber, the damping effect is created when the movement of the road wheels causes oil to be squeezed through a valve in the shock absorber piston, with flexible valve discs providing the shock absorber’s resistance characteristics.  In the new selective damping system part of the oil flow is directed through an additional valve housing above the actual damper piston. Inside there is a control plunger that divides the valve housing into two areas.

 

 

·         When the shock absorber is subjected to only small movements, i.e. during normal driving, the control plunger is in a central position and holds open a bypass duct that allows part of the oil flow to pass through the piston journal. This oil flows past the damper valve, reducing the overall resistance of the shock absorber, producing "softer" shock absorber characteristics for a high level of ride comfort.

 

 

·         If the shock absorber is subjected to more abrupt movements – for example when taking bends at speed or during evasive manoeuvres – the oil pushes the control plunger in the valve housing upwards or downwards, automatically closing the bypass duct. As a result the full damping effect becomes available and the B-Class is stabilised to the maximum.

 

Brakes: internally ventilated front disc brakes

 

 

The B-Class is equipped with four wheel disc brakes. Brake lining wear is constantly monitored by a sensor in the right brake caliper. Once the lining thickness is about to reach a critical value, an indicator lamp lights up in the dashboard.

 

 

The brake data at a glance:

 

 

	B200 and B200 Turbo
Front axle (millimetres)   -          Disc brakes   -          Piston diameter   -          Disc diameter   -          Disc thickness	Int. ventilated 57 276 22
Rear axle (millimetres) -          Disc brakes   -          Piston diameter   -          Disc diameter   -          Disc thickness	Solid 30 258 8

 

 

Electronic Stability Program (ESP^®): latest generation with STEER CONTROL

 

 

The new B-Class comes standard with the latest generation of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP^®), which excels with even more precise and finely metered control intervention. Its control unit combines the functions of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Acceleration Slip Control (ASR) and Brake Assist (BAS).

 

 

 

Moreover, the highly efficient ESP^® technology of the B-Class has great potential for new functions. One of these is the STEER CONTROL steering assistance system. This operates in tandem with the electromechanical power steering system, providing the appropriate servo assistance in critical handling situations to help the driver stabilise the vehicle. This auxiliary system intervenes when the vehicle oversteers and the driver wishes to stabilise the B-Class by counter-steering. When braking on road surfaces offering less grip on one side of the vehicle than the other, this new ESP^® function also helps with steering corrections and provides the driver with better road surface contact.

 

 

Electronic networking of the steering, engine and the Electronic Stability Program creates the conditions for STEER CONTROL. With oversteer, for example, the individual control units exchange information about the steering angle, vehicle speed and yaw rate within fractions of a second, enabling the ESP^®­ computer to calculate the steering effort required. The electric servo unit then carries out the corresponding command. For steering corrections during braking, information from the wheel rotation sensors on the wheels is also included in the calculation.

 

 

Another new, additional function of the Electronic Stability Program is a system, which warns the driver of any significant loss of tire pressure. In this case, ESP^® uses sensor information about the wheel rotation speeds, which are mainly a function of the vehicle speed, load and tire pressure. As the Electronic Stability Program continuously registers and compares the wheel rotation speeds, it is able to detect any significant deviations.

 

 

In addition, the control unit automatically monitors other dynamic parameters such as the lateral acceleration, yaw rate and wheel torque in order to diagnose any pressure loss in a tire though this system does not measure the actual air pressure in each tire. If a loss of pressure is detected in a tire, a warning appears in the cockpit’s central display: "Tire pressure, check tires." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mercedes-Benz B200

No. of cylinders/arrangement		4 in-line, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	2,034
Bore x stroke	mm	83.0 x 94.0
Rated output	hp	134 at 5,750 rpm
Rated torque	lb-ft	136 at 3,500-4,000 rpm
Max. engine speed	rpm	6,300
Compression ratio		11.0 : 1
Mixture formation		Microprocessor-controlled gas injection with hot film mass airflow sensor (HFM)

Transmission		Five-speed manual transmission
Clutch		Single-disc dry clutch
Ratios	Final drive   1st gear   2nd gear   3rd gear   4th gear   5th gear   Reverse	3.72   3.64   2.04   1.33   1.03   0.82   3.29

Front axle		McPherson struts, wishbones, twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers with selective damping system and coil springs, torsion bar stabilizer
Rear axle		Parabolic rear axle, single-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers with selective damping system and coil springs, torsion bar stabilizer
Braking system		Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum servo,   Anti-lock Braking System and Brake Assist, front disc brakes internally ventilated, rear disc brakes solid, lever-type parking brake, ESP®
Steering		Electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering
Wheels		6 J x 16
Tires		205/55 R 16

Wheelbase	mm	2,778
Track front/rear	mm	1,552/1,547
Overall length	mm	4,270
Overall width	mm	1,777
Overall height	mm	1,604
Turning circle	m	11.95
Trunk capacity	l	544-2,245
Curb weight*	kg	1,345
Payload	kg	535
Gross vehicle weight	kg	1,880
Tank capacity/reserve	l	54/6

Acceleration 0-100 km/h	sec.	10.1
Maximum speed	km/h	196
Fuel consumption combined	l/100 km (manual)   (automatic)	9.2 (city) / 6.7 (hwy)   9.2 (city) / 7.2 (hwy)

 

*Including driver (75 kg)

 

Mercedes-Benz B200 TURBO

 

No. of cylinders/arrangement		4 in-line, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	2,034
Bore x stroke	mm	83.0 x 94.0
Rated output	hp	190 at 5,000 rpm
Rated torque	lb-ft	206 at 1,800-4,850 rpm
Max. engine speed	rpm	6000
Compression ratio		9.0 : 1
Mixture formation		Microprocessor-controlled gas injection with hot film mass airflow sensor (HFM), turbocharger

Transmission		Six-speed manual transmission
Clutch		Single-disc dry clutch
Ratios	Final drive   1st gear   2nd gear   3rd gear   4th gear   5th gear   6th gear   Reverse	3.24 (gears 1-4) / 2.700 (gears 5,6,R)   4.214   2.542   1.710   1.263   1.184   0.953   5.015

Front axle		McPherson struts, wishbones, twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers with selective damping system and coil springs, torsion bar stabilizer
Rear axle		Parabolic rear axle, single-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers with selective damping system and coil springs, torsion bar stabilizer
Braking system		Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum servo,   Anti-lock Braking System and Brake Assist, front disc brakes internally ventilated, rear disc brakes solid, lever-type parking brake, ESP®
Steering		Electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering
Wheels		6 J x 16
Tires		205/55 R 16

Wheelbase	mm	2,778
Track front/rear	mm	1,552/1,547
Overall length	mm	4,270
Overall width	mm	1,777
Overall height	mm	1,604
Turning circle	m	11.95
Trunk capacity	l	544-2,245
Curb weight*	kg	1,370
Payload	kg	510
Gross vehicle weight	kg	1,880
Tank capacity/reserve	l	54/6

Acceleration 0-100 km/h	sec.	7.6
Maximum speed	km/h	210
Fuel consumption combined	l/100 km (manual)   (automatic)	10.2 (city) / 6.9 (hwy)   9.5 (city) / 7.4 (hwy)

 

*Including driver (75 kg)