Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Mercedes will add the B-Class to its model range, heavily influenced by the R-Class (or GST) concept, but less luxury and, of course, much smaller. Rumours suggest the German firm will display a concept of the car on the Paris Show later this year, likely to be called the Vision CST (Compact Sports Tourer).

Auto Express Car Reviews

By ©Automedia

July 2004

Though based on the new A-Class which will go on sale across Europe early in 2005, the 'B' will come with a radically different exterior design and will be much longer and more flexible inside. Insiders regard the car as the adequate answer to the Renault Scenic and similar cars.

To go with the new chassis, a range of fresh engines has also been developed. Petrol models will get reworked versions of the existing 1.5- and 2.0-litre motors and deliver 10 per cent more power and 5 per cent better fuel economy. Buyers will also have the option of a new 141-bhp 2.0-litre diesel. Along with an improved five-speed manual gearbox, engineers have also come up with a new CVT shifter to further boost economy.