Available in Gasoline B 180 and Diesel B 200 d

The new Mercedes-Benz "B-Class" features a sporty yet luxurious exterior design and an interior that conveys high quality and a youthful feel, further enhancing its characteristic spacious interior and excellent utility.

It also incorporates the interactive multimedia system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and safety assistance systems on par with the flagship "S-Class," positioning it against its direct rival, the BMW "2 Series."

According to Mr. Rei Nakayama of the company's Sales Planning Department, who is in charge of the B-Class product planning, the new model offers two powertrain options. The "B 180" is equipped with the "M282" type 1.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, which features a "delta cylinder head" where the cylinder head is shaped like a triangular prism laid on its side, for reduced weight and space efficiency. It produces a maximum output of 100 kW (136 hp) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 200 Nm at 1,460-4,000 rpm. Combined with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission "7G-DCT," it offers direct shifting and excellent tuning that suppresses vibration.

The "B 200 d" is powered by the "OM654q" type 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, producing a maximum output of 110 kW (150 hp) at 3,400-4,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 320 Nm at 1,400-3,200 rpm. The 8-speed dual-clutch "8G-DCT" transmission delivers powerful acceleration and high quietness with low vibration. Through features such as an engine combining different materials like an aluminum cylinder block and steel pistons, "multi-way exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)" that combines high and low pressure, and a new exhaust gas purification system that does not release ammonia into the outside air, it has become an exceptionally clean diesel engine for passenger cars sold in the Japanese market.

The body dimensions are 4,419 mm in length, 1,796 mm in width, and 1,562 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,729 mm. Compared to the previous generation, the length has increased by 54 mm and the wheelbase by 30 mm. Of note is the height, which at 1,550 mm, means it will no longer fit in many multi-story car parks with a 1,550 mm height limit.

Four Highlights of the B-Class

Firstly, the exterior design is based on the new design philosophy of "Sensual Purity," adopting a contour that significantly reduces lines and edges, similar to the "A-Class" that debuted earlier. This improves aerodynamic performance, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.24, which is claimed to be best-in-class.

The interior also largely follows the A-Class. Features highlighted include a wide-screen display with a panoramic view that eliminates the cowl, five circular air vents reminiscent of jet engine turbines, and ambient lighting with a total of 64 colors.

In terms of utility, to further expand the space for four adults to travel comfortably, the interior width has been increased by 33 mm and the interior height by 5 mm compared to the previous generation. The 4:2:4 split-folding rear seats allow for flexible usage.

Furthermore, the familiar interactive infotainment system MBUX, activated by saying "Hey, Mercedes," is standard equipment. Its artificial intelligence learning function allows it to learn new slang and adapt to changes in language usage over time. The system's ability to personalize responses for specific users is said to foster an emotional connection between the car, driver, and passengers.

In terms of safety, it adopts driving assistance systems similar to those in the S-Class. With the optional Radar Safety Package, features such as "Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC" with automatic restart, "Active Steering Assist" for steering control while maintaining distance, "Active Lane Changing Assist" for automatic lane changes, and "Active Emergency Stop Assist" which gently decelerates and stops the vehicle within its lane in case of an emergency such as the driver losing consciousness, become available.

President Kintaro Ueno, who accompanied the children of guests for the unveiling and commemorative photo, commented, "The 'Share Green Minami Aoyama' where we chose to hold the B-Class launch event today is a facility we are using for the first time. With the theme of a new 'park lifestyle' in the heart of the city, it's a spot where people naturally gather and communication is born through the coexistence of cafes, shops, and offices. The B-Class we are announcing today shares a similar concept; the natural dialogue infotainment system "MBUX" allows for natural communication between occupants and the car, and the ability to carry many people and a lot of luggage makes me imagine that conversations during drives will be very enjoyable."

He also mentioned the sale of T-shirts in collaboration with the select shop "BEAMS" and the distribution of exclusive LINE stickers. Outside the venue, a BEAMS-spec B-Class was displayed on the lawn, enhancing the launch event with a setup imagined for use in scenarios such as camping and surfing.

Pricing and delivery times are ¥3.84 million for the B 180, with delivery starting at the end of July, and ¥4.22 million for the B 200 d, with delivery around October.