Despite what other people say, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is one likeable car. It’s not perfect, but after some days in it, it’s easy to prefer it over its more stylish sibling, the GLA-Class. While it fulfills a very particular niche—one whose needs center around a car with comfort, space, and one that carries a premium brand; it shouldn’t matter. In the end, it’s a sorted little number that deserves a look because it appeals to the sensibilities more than it does to the senses.

Mercedes-Benz describes the B-Class as an “MPV” (well, Compact Sport Tourer in their parlance) and while some would scoff at this notion, it’s worthwhile remembering that our notion of what a “Multi-Purpose Vehicle” is largely dictated by American ideals: a car-like loading height, seating for 7, and possibility having sliding doors. For Europeans though, MPVs are basically the lovechild of hatchbacks and bread vans with small footprints and tall rooflines.




Opening the upright, square-cut doors reveal a surprising amount of space. The front seats are cushy and wide, though the most comfortable driving position is more upright. The seat height, even at its lowest setting is somewhere along the middle ground between a conventional hatchback and MPV. This may turn off those wanting a sporty feel, but it undoubtedly gives it excellent visibility. Moving to the back, Mercedes-Benz claims that the rear quarters offer legroom equaling to that of an S-Class. While that’s open for debate, there’s no denying that it’s comfy for kids and plus-sized adults alike. That said, comfort in the second row’s middle seat is still questionable with its narrow cushion and obtrusive center tunnel.




While the B 180 doesn’t tick all the boxes when it comes to creature comfort features, at least when it comes to the all-important drive, it actually does well. Packing a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, it produces 122 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. These figures certainly look average, but what’s notable is that peak torque is shoved in from as early as 1,250 rpm all the way to 4,000 rpm. This results in brisk progress be it from a standstill or during an unplanned overtaking maneuver. The 7-speed dual clutch though feels a bit mismatched to the engine. Left to putter around in traffic, it’s alright with smooth, decisive shifts. Push it hard though and it feels far too aggressive for this little powerplant.




While an all-new B-Class is along the way, the current B 180 Urban is still a success for Mercedes-Benz in many fronts. Not only have engineers managed to banish away the weirdness that plagued previous B-Class models, but they’ve also managed to make it a better fit not just within their line-up, but more importantly, against other brands as well. Thanks to its mix of excellent quality and generous space, the B-Class has become an invitingly unconventional choice in the world of premium hatchbacks.