Mercedes-Benz B Class 2012-2015 Edition 1

B Class 2012-2015 Edition 1 Review

One of the largest luxury car maker, Mercedes Benz has launched a limited edition of their impressive hatchback model in the country. It has been named as the Mercedes Benz B Class Edition 1 variant. It is available at the price tag of 28.75 Lakh (Ex-showroom Mumbai). This hatchback has a few added features, which includes decals that runs along the side skirting on both its sides, external rear view mirrors that come in a glossy black finish and a new set of alloy wheels as well that are covered with robust tubeless radials. Apart from these, the internal section has been added with cup holders in the rear center armrest, then the rear seat passengers get a couple of LCD screens along with a DVD player, which adds to the in-cabin ambiance. Apart from these, it also has an conventional proximity warning LED light, which further assists the reverse parking camera. This hatchback is bestowed with a number of safety aspects as well, which includes crash responsive emergency lighting, rear window in single layer safety glass, fuel level warning indicator, tyre pressure loss warning system and many other such aspects. This limited edition variant is equipped with a 2.2-litre, In-line diesel engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 2143cc. This power plant is coupled with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission gear box, which transmits the engine power to its front wheels and deliver an impressive performance. It can churn out a maximum power output of 107.3bhp in combination with 250Nm of peak torque output.

Exteriors:

The overall dimensions of this variant are quite standard and can easily accommodate a minimum of five passengers. It is designed with an overall length of 4359mm along with a decent height of 1557mm. It has a total width 2010mm, which includes the external rear view mirrors. Its wheelbase measures about 2699mm and it has a minimum ground clearance of 190mm, which is rather good for this class. Currently, the company is selling this limited edition variant in three exterior paint options, which includes Red, White and Silver metallic finish for the buyers to select from. The bold radiator grille comes in three louvers and is in a brilliant silver finish, which adds to the appealing look of its frontage. The large headlight cluster is incorporated with radiant clear lens projector based headlamps, which has automatic headlamp activation function as well. It is also fitted with LED day time running lights, which further adds to the elegance of this vehicle. The body colored bumper has a large air intake section for cooling the diesel engine quickly. The flared up wheel arches are fitted with a stylish set of 16 inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels , which are covered with 205/55 R16 sized tubeless radial tyres. The external mirrors are electrically adjustable and comes with an automatic dimming function as well. The heated rear windscreen comes with a timer along with a wash and wipe function as well.

Interiors:

The internal section of this Mercedes Benz B Class Edition 1 variant comes with brown burr walnut wood trim with silk matte finish, which gives the cabin an elegant look. The leather wrapped multi-functional steering wheel is mounted with twelve buttons for audio, phone and cruise controls. The well cushioned seats are covered with artico upholstery with contrasting top stitching. It also has a panoramic sunroof, rear seat entertainment package with two LCD screens and a DVD player, rear center armrest with cup holders and many other such aspects. Apart from these, the company has given it a trip computer in multi-function display, an instrument cluster with 4-analogue dials and suspended needles, outside temperature display, auto dimming inside rear view mirror, chrome surrounded air outlets and cruciform nozzles and many other such aspects.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is equipped with a 2.2-litre diesel power plant, which is integrated with four cylinders, while displacing 2143cc . This engine has the ability to churn out a maximum power output of 107.3bhp between 3200 to 4400rpm in combination with a peak torque yield of 250Nm in the range of 1400 to 2800rpm. It is skilfully mated with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission gear box, which transmits the engine power to its front wheel. This engine allows the hatchback to achieve a top speed of 190 Kmph. It can easily accelerate from 0-100 Kmph in 10.6 seconds, which is rather incredible. This diesel motor is incorporated with a common rail based direct injection fuel supply system. It has the ability to generate 20.6 Kmpl on the highways and 17.9 Kmpl in the city traffic conditions, which is quite decent for this segment.

Braking and Handling:

The adaptive braking mechanism is further enhanced by anti lock braking system along with brake assist function. All the four wheels are equipped with disc brakes. On the other hand, it comes with weight optimized combination type suspension mechanism. The front axle is assembled with a McPherson strut, while the rear is fitted with a four link based suspension mechanism. It is also equipped with electronic stability program, hill start assist and acceleration skid control function. It is blessed with a standard rack and pinion based steering wheel, which comes with an integral steer control function .

Comfort Features:

This Mercedes Benz B Class Edition 1 variant has a number of sophisticated features, which include TIREFIT with tyre inflation compressor, a full size spare wheel, boot lighting, armrest for driver and front passenger with storage compartment, ASSYST maintenance interval indicator, retractable load compartment cover, EASY-VARIO-PLUS system and so on. Apart from these, it also has air conditioning system with a heater, electrically adjustable seat with memory package and power windows with one touch control function. It has an advanced music system with 14.7cm color display, speed sensitive volume control, Bluetooth connectivity and other input options as well.

Safety Features:

The list include central locking system with interior switch and crash sensor, automatic door locking with emergency opening, electronic immobilizer, adaptive brake lights, electric parking brake with comfort function, audible warning signal for seat belts, headlamps on and parking brake left on. Apart from these, it also has side impact pelvis airbags for driver , front passenger and rear seat occupants along with knee airbag for driver.

Pros:

1. Roomy interiors with ample space.

2. Impressive comfort and safety based aspects.

Cons:

1. Initial cost of ownership is quite high.

2. Ground clearance can be made better.