The B-Class was getting on a bit in the face of younger, more fashionable pretenders, so to protect its interests, Mercedes has added more technology, tweaked the engines for better efficiency and has even added an electric version.
It’s sharper in the face than before, with catwalk cheekbones and a sharp wedge shape. There’s also a new AMG Line trim level that turns the faux carbon and red stitching up to 11.
First things first and in the UK the B-Class’s first and biggest problem is that it’s not an SUV or “crossover” in a market where MPVs are the family car equivalent of beige elasticated trousers.
But to be fairer to this car, it’s a bit of a looker thanks to some dramatic crease lines along the side and an unexpectedly aggressive – but not over-large – set of wheel designs.
The B-Class scores big points for practicality, with a spacious cabin, headroom enough for all but the most extravagant Ladies’ Day hats and lots of legroom for everyone, unless the driver has Go-Go-Gadget legs and pushes the seat right back.
In the boot there’s a minor hiccup in the guise of a cross member running across the bottom against the rear seat backs, which stops you pushing bags quite as far back as you could. The largest hand luggage-compatible cases will normally still slide in lengthways, but bigger ones need to go in sideways.
The more powerful of the 2.1-litre diesels is the one to go for if you can stomach the extra cost. The B 220 CDI has the best balance of attributes and, if you get it in a mid-range trim grade, it’s only a gnat’s wing more expensive than the bling-and-whistles AMG Line version of the slightly breathless B 200 CDI.
With a 70mph cruise equating to more than 2,100rpm through the seven-speed automatic gearbox fitted to the test car, you can tell Mercedes has tuned the B-Class for lower average speeds. Other cars will be more economical on motorways.
There’s plenty of adjustment in the driving position, though, and the steering wheel comes way out and makes sure that six-footers aren’t left too close to the pedals.
No one is likely to argue that the diesel is a bit clattery or that there’s often noticeable wind noise around the front end, but the B 220 CDI seems to have the smoothest ride quality of the diesels and feels the most composed.
The cheapest petrol B-Class starts £500 lower than it used to, which is nice, and for the amount of space and premium ambiance you get, anything below around £25,000 looks very good value. C 220 CDI models have automatic gearboxes as standard.
Buy anything but the basic trim grade and it won’t be left trailing in the school gates style race, either, and by going down the MPV route you’ll avoid the “fashion tax” that manufacturers seem to have slapped on to the price of crossovers and compact SUVs.
Forget any preconceptions about the car; it doesn’t really sustain any arguments about being suitable only for one type of driver or another. It’s good enough to persuade crossover converts that there’s life in the old MPV dog yet, and more besides.
As a family car with a practical shape, high driving position and premium ambiance to match its badge, the B-Class really is very tempting for the price.
Facts & figures
Model: Mercedes-Benz B 220 CDI AMG Line
Price: £28,420
Engine: 2.1-litre diesel producing 174bhp and 258lb/ft of torque
Performance: Top speed 139mph, 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds
Economy: 68.9mpg
CO2 emissions: 107g/km