Mercedes-Benz B-Class 2015 Review

First instinct is to ponder the niche segment in which the B 250 exists – understanding that's not actually how 'normal' buyers think, we swiftly move on. And it takes no time at all to appreciate the B 250 for the odd-shaped package of premium goodness that it is. But there's still a nagging feeling that the B 250's real value is lost in translation.

Not to be mistaken for the slightly smaller and more youthful A-Class or the SUV-like GLA-Class, the B-Class feels a little bit Celine Dion – will people get it?

On paper, the B 250's spec sheet shows off its superior credentials at the top of the B-Class model line-up. It's powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injected turbocharged engine that produces 155kW and 350 Nm (compared to 115kW/250Nm in the B 200) – and it's the first (locally) B-Class to move via all-wheel-drive.

A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard arrangement across the B-Class range.

It's hardly built for pace, but is claimed to move from 0-100km/h in 6.7sec – great for breaking the home to school-bell speed records (in theory).

Inside, the B 250 shows a restrained design aesthetic that flaunts some premium finishes and superior equipment, without complicating ergonomics or functionality. The standard kit is generous, but not unique to this price point, including an 8.0-inch colour touchscreen for the infotainment system and reversing camera, Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and handsfree telephony and sat nav.

Of course the baby Benz also scores remote keyless entry, blind-spot assist, LED headlights, auto wipers and headlights, heated, electrically-adjustable seats and 18-inch alloys.

Our test vehicle also arrived with several options. These include metallic paint ($1190), a panoramic sunroof ($1490), AMG Exclusive Package ($990), COMAND package ($2490), Driving Assistance package ($2490) and Seat Comfort package ($990) – pushing the recommended list price for this B 250 to $63,840 (plus on-road costs).

On the road, the B 250 feels car-like, despite its boxy silhouette. The slightly raised ride height extends the usual benefits, such as easy entry and exit and a more commanding view. Other than this, it's Mercedes-Benz business as usual.

The steering is beautifully precise and offers great feedback. It made light work manoeuvring around suburban streets and felt equally confident on the freeway.

There's a slight 'wolf in sheep's clothing' vibe when it comes to the B 250s grip and handling, adding some motoring flavour to an otherwise vanilla ride.

With the torquey engine quick to harness its power from standstill, initial acceleration was commendable. On the go however, the seven-speed transmission showed up slightly sporadic in its ability to manage the power at hand. Left to its own accord in fully automatic mode, it's too eager to change-up, and occasionally you're left with less than optimal power and a sluggish response on throttle. You're left wanting, for longer than ideal, particularly in low-speed suburban driving.

But that's not indicative of the whole journey. At high-speeds, planting your foot with great purpose, the B 250 is quick to shift down to allow easy and confident overtaking. Paddleshifts are standard kit and are quick to respond. Around town however, it seemed unnecessary – notwithstanding the fun factor.

The suspension softened Melbourne's worst road surfaces to deliver a smooth and balanced ride – the kind of engineering feature that often goes unnoticed, until you don't have it.

Driver comfort is also great, as are overall ergonomics. And three-position seat memory ensures your comfort is easily achieved. Second-row passengers are comfortable, and it will accommodate three – albeit a cosy arrangement. With two car seats, we could still accommodate a third passenger with relative ease – although it may be a little tight for long journeys.

The B 250 also features great incidental storage – good size and good position. Cupholders are in a sensible position, too. Details, done right.

The cabin is well protected from road and tyre noise, creating a calm ambience throughout. Premium finishes – chrome, high shine surfaces, leather upholstery and contrast stitching – make the B 250s interior feel quite special, even sporty.

A harman kardon surround sound system with 12 speakers and a sizeable sub delivers crisp sound, while the screen perched in the centre of the dash is the home of all of your infotainment and in-car settings. The screen is quick to respond to touch, or you can use the rotary dial neatly positioned in the centre console. The system is both intuitive and seamless in its execution, while looking pretty slick, too. You can even personalise the colour of the ambient lighting.

Load space is generous and access is easy via the large boot opening – a 60:40 seating split configuration with through load adds versatility, but a 40:20:40 would make this space even more usable.

Side and rearward visibility was slightly compromised, but the blind-spot warning system and reversing camera help somewhat.

For a predominantly urban cycle, our test vehicle returned an average fuel consumption of around 9.0L/100km.

The B 250 is covered by a three-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, which is fast becoming the poor cousin of cover when compared to six or seven years now offered by many rivals.

There's much to love about the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, and in its base model spec it represents decent value for money. But in this form, the value equation is well and truly blurred as competitors bring their pseudo-SUV offerings at a more competitive price point.

2015 Mercedes-Benz B 250 pricing and specifications:
Price: $54,200 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 155kW/350Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
Fuel: 6.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 158g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: five-star ANCAP