The third generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class has been unveiled on day 1 of the 2018 Paris Motor Show. It’s a completely new model and is expected to make its way to India by the middle of next year in both petrol and diesel guise.
The design has evolved from the second generation model that debuted in 2012. The rounded lines have become sharper but the MPV silhouette that has defined this model has been retained. Design highlights for this 2019 model include the new two-slat grille, optional multi-beam LED head lamps and an integrated roof spoiler at the rear.
The cabin has been heavily refreshed and now gets the same design highlights as the next generation A-Class that was unveiled a few months ago. The biggest change is visible in the form of dual digital displays for the dashboard. This was first introduced in the 2014 S-Class and is now a standard fitment across the German automaker’s range and makes use of the latest version of Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system.
The colour scheme is an all-black affair while one of the other major visual highlights are the illuminated air-con vents that have been designed to replicate the look of afterburners on a jet plane. There’s 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, a 455-litre boot (that can be expanded to 705-litre with the seats folded down) and hands free boot opening.
All versions of the MPV now get Active Brake Assist while a whole host of drive assistance features from the S-Class like park assist and blind spot monitor are also available. However, it is not clear if the features are standard or optional extras.
This new B-Class debuts a Euro 6 compliant 2.0-litre diesel engine and will be available in the B200d and B220d state of tune. In addition, the car, at the time of its December 2018 sales start, will also be offered in the B180 petrol, B200 petrol, B180d, states of tune. The 2.0-litres versions get an eight-speed DCT while the other models will get a seven-speed DCT.
This B-Class is India-bound but is expected to continue as a CBU due to the relatively low demand for this model as compared to the other cars in the range here.
