Revised B-Class cleans up its act

The new face of the Mercedes B-Class range has been unveiled – and the compact MPV is now more focused on comfort, fuel economy and the environment.

The fresh look comprises a restyled front end and side profile, while at the back there’s a new bumper and tail-lights.

A revamped six-strong range of engines promises greater fuel economy than ever, with the two turbodiesels claimed to return as much as seven per cent more mpg than before.

Meanwhile, from the autumn, the petrol B150 and B170 models will be available in BlueEFFICIENCY guise. An optional stop/start function switches off the engine in heavy traffic, and improves economy by up to nine per cent in the process. Across the line-up, CO2 outputs are lower, and the B-Class now undercuts the latest strict EU emissions limits by up to 90 per cent.

Inside, there’s classy new cabin trim, plus the latest generation of advanced infotainment systems. Automatic hill-start assist is now fitted as standard, while the latest Parktronic option helps drivers manoeuvre into a suitable spot.

Safety features include hi-tech flashing brake lights, to prevent rear-end collisions, and emergency cabin lighting that automatically activates in the event of a crash. Prices have yet to be revealed.