SUVs are gaining more and more popularity. market shares to the detriment of other segments such as that of people carriers. And yet, the Mercedes B-Class "resists" the trend of SUVs and last October it received a restyling that introduced some innovations; design, more standard equipment; complete range and a range of purely electrified petrol engines (Mild Hybrid and Plug-in). All this, while always continuing to offer plenty of space not only for passengers but also for luggage, all features that have made this model from the German manufacturer appreciated over time. been chosen by over 153,000 customers. Women, says Mercedes, represent 50% of Italian customers. How is it the Mercedes B-Class restyling? We have I had the opportunity to briefly ride it on the streets of Milan to get a very first idea of the new features, waiting to be able to test it more; long in the future.
DESIGN AND INTERIORS 
We remind you that the touch-ups to the look introduced by Mercedes aim at giving the B-Class a fresh look. however, we find them in front where the LED lights stand out with a new light signature and a series of changes to the grille. Behind, however, Mercedes has introduced new optical groupsnow equipped with LED technology as standard. With the facelift, four further light-alloy wheel designs with dimensions up to 19 inches were made available, including the optional high-gloss black painted light-alloy wheels in multi-point design. spokes and with polished piping for the AMG Line.
Mercedes Class B is; available in 10 different colours. As regards, however, the interiors, in addition to the availability; of new upholstery, the restyling introduced a new multifunction steering wheel with touch controls, a redesigned center console and the latest generation of the MBUX system. The instrumentation has a 7 or 10.25-inch screen, while the infotainment display is also available. by 10.25 inches. The German brand also adds that it has improved the voice assistant which is now available on the market. able to better understand the commands given. Under the dashboard we also find a compartment with built-in wireless charger for smartphones.
Mercedes Class B measures 4,420 mm long x 1,800 mm wide x 1,570 mm high. The ability load is of 455 litres which can; increase to 1,540 liters by folding down the backrests of the rear seats.
ENGINES 
Following the facelift, the Mercedes B-Class &e serious ; proposed with electrified petrol engines with Mild Hybrid and Plug-in technology. Within the range, however, there are also diesel versions. More in detail, on the front of petrol engines (Mild Hybrid), we have the B 180 models (100 kW/136 HP); B 200 (120kW/163hp); B 220 4MATIC (140 kW/190 HP); B 250 4MATIC (165 kW/224 hp). As for the diesels, the B 180 d (85 kW/116 hp) models are available; B 200 d (110 kW/150 hp); B 220 d (140 kW/190 hp).
Instead, the Plug-in Mercedes B 250 ecan count on an electric powertrain consisting of a 120 kW/163 HP 1.3 turbo petrol internal combustion engine combined with a unit; 80 kW/109 hp electric. The maximum system power is equal to 160 kW/218 HP with 450 Nm. The electric engine is powered by a 15.6 kWh battery capable of allowing an electric-only range of 67-77 km according to the WLTP cycle. On all models it is there is an automatic gearbox.
The Mercedes Class B & egrave; has also been updated in terms of driver assistance systems. With the update of the Driver Assistance Package, for example, the control of the Lane Keeping Assist is now possible. much more; comfortable thanks to Active Steering Control.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS 
In our first contact, we were able to drive the Plug-in version for just under 30 kmof the Mercedes Class B. Not many but sufficient to appreciate some aspects of this model of the German brand. The design touches do not distort the car but allow you to make its look a little more elegant. more modern. Inside the passenger compartment, however, we find the classic premium environment that all Mercedes offer.
The optimal driving position is found very easily and in a few tens of seconds thanks to the electric seat adjustment which allows for really fine corrections. Soft touch coatings and lots of quality; everywhere you look. Getting on board, you immediately understand that you are on a Mercedes.
Driving, the route was 70% urban and 30% extra-urban, we appreciated the work done by Mercedes on the chassis and suspension of Class B. The car absorbs bumps and bumps well. of the roads, offering great driving comfort. However, it also performs well when you overdo it a little. in curves, showing off a flat stance.
Unfortunately, given the characteristics of the route, it is not possible to do so. It was possible to squeeze the powertrain to test its potential. We recall, in this regard, that this version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 100 km/h. maximum speed of 223 km/h. There are also various modes available to the driver; driving skills that make it possible to prioritize electric driving or performance.
The idea was also to check the electricity consumption to evaluate the range. Unfortunately, the car is there. was given with the accumulator at 4% charge. Tests that we will therefore carry out in a more timely manner. in-depth when we get the chance; to have for more; time the car. Let's leave aside, for the moment, also the question of consumption. The flat battery, the frequent "stop and go" in the traffic of Milan and a few accelerations to test the engine, do not allow us to give a correct figure. Also from this point of view, we will evaluate the car when it is ready. possible.
PRICES 
With the restyling, Mercedes has revised the commercial offer of the B-Class. The German brand wanted to reposition the B-Class range upwards, offering particularly rich standard equipment right from the basic set-up. Seven versions available: EXECUTIVE, ADVANCED, ADVANCED PROGRESSIVE, ADVANCED PLUS PROGRESSIVE, ADVANCED PLUS AMG Line, PREMIUM AMG Line and PREMIUM PLUS AMG Line.
How much does the Mercedes B-Class cost in Italy? Prices start from 36,950 euros for the B 180 Automatic EXECUTIVE.
MERCEDES B-CLASS ONLINE CONFIGURATOR
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