Mercedes-benz B-class New Generation
MercedesBenz has overhauled the design and engineering of the BClass after three successful years the facelift programme focused on environmental compatibility economic efficiency and comfort with further advances being made in each of these areas. Thanks to a series of detailed improvements the fourcylinder engines now burn up to seven percent less fuel than previously and distinguish themselves with remarkably low exhaust emissions that undercut the current EU limits by as much as 90 percent.
MercedesBenz has developed a new ECO start/stop function for the highvolume B 150 and B 170 models. This switches off the engine when stopped at traffic lights for example producing a fuel saving of up to nine percent in practical use. Additional new developments include the bifuel petrol/naturalgas drive in the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY along with active parking assist which helps drivers to both find a suitable parking spot and then maneuver into it.
Since its market premiere in summer 2005 the BClass has evolved into the blueprint for a new species of car which harmonizes the benefits of various vehicle concepts: the fourdoor model boasts the dynamic design of a sporty saloon the exterior dimensions of a compact car the spaciousness of an estate the versatility of a mini MPV and the trademark safety of a MercedesBenz.
The sales figures for the BClass to date provide clear evidence that the MercedesBenz product planners hit the mark with a concept that caters to the motoring needs of today’s sophisticated society: since mid2005 over 350000 motorists around the world have been won over by the Sports Tourer.
The restyled front end injects the BClass with more poise and assurance than before. This is primarily down to the radiator grille with its three chromed cross fins painted in metallic grey and the Mercedes star integrated into its centre. However the more imposing appearance of the BClass also stems from the newlook bumper whose design emphasizes the large air intake at the bottom as well as the modified bonnet.
This new design idiom makes the front look broad and as a consequence especially powerful symbolizing the sporty attributes of the BClass even more clearly than before. The design at the sides seems more harmonious and elegant than before because the exterior auto body parts mirror housings door handles and skirt panels are now painted to match the body color on all model variants.
The rear styling picks up on the dynamic flow of lines at the front and along the sides. A direct visual link is created by the tail light assemblies whose upper edges merge seamlessly with the character line along the vehicle’s sides. The tail lights sport a new highbrilliance look and draw the gaze to the large tailgate which now comes with en ergonomically enhanced chrome handle strip.
About the writer: Anthony Fontanelle is a 35yearold automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.
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