B-Class bends in a new direction
Big changes in store for the next generation Mercedes B-Class as it approaches its European launch in the second half of the yearWhen Mercedes-Benz introduces its next-generation B-Class in Europe some time later this year it will be an animal quite different to the current model.
With a lower profile allowed by the scrapping of the safety-oriented sandwich floor structure, the new B-Class is said to be targeted at a younger demographic.
The Carparazzi spy photos of the next B-class undergoing winter testing show it will present a sleeker shape consistent with its aspirations to be a Volkswagen Golf competitor.
Rumour has it the B-Class will spawn a number of variants including a sedan and a small SUV. A roadster version is also a possibility, indicating a much bigger role for the front-drive model in the lower-rung Benz lineup.
While the spy photos of the hatchback variant show what appears to be a noticeably lower-set B-Class, the second-rung Benz still has a mini MPV look about it with its high bonnet and slightly vertical orientation.
The spy shots show a car with minimal attempts at disguise, although Benz has slapped a bit of cladding on the rear end to disguise the shape of the tail lights, rear window and bumper.
The Golf-like C-Pillar only looks that way: In reality it will contain side glass tapering down to give a slightly arched look consistent with larger Benz models. The final product should therefore have less of a slab-sided look. And are those kicked-up crease lines in the rear doors indicative of the real thing?
The bold Benz grille slats could be the real McCoy, or just a quick patch up, but at least they clearly reveal the car’s identity.
Interestingly, Carparazzi says the new front-drive Mercedes will mostly use Renault engines in 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol-fired capacities as well as a 1.6-litre diesel.
The next B-Class is also expected to bring stop/start technology on both manual and auto versions.
Top of the range variants will use a Benz 2.2-litre diesel, says Carparazzi, while other eco-friendly models will follow – including plug-in hybrid (E-Cell Plus), all-electric (E-Cell) and fuel cell (F-Cell) versions.
Transmissions will be either a manual or a dual-clutch automated manual, both with six speeds. The CVT transmission is reportedly due for the chop.
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