Mercedes->ke187 officially unveiled the new generation B-Class->ke2751 in Germany at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model has received a completely redesigned exterior and interior design, as well as a new engine line-up.

The Mercedes B-Class is the larger of the company's two compact models, the smaller model being the A-Class. It has undergone significant changes to gain some attention out on the market, including redesigned front and rear ends. The aerodynamic changes provide a significant improvement, allowing the B-Class to deliver an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.26.

Power for the 2012 Mercedes B-Class consists of a new four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection and turbocharging and a new diesel engine. These engines come with a new dual clutch transmission, a new manual transmission, and new assistance systems.

The new B-Class will go on sale in November 2011.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Mercedes B-Class.

2012 Mercedes B-Class

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Mercedes B-Class
  • Engine/Motor: four-cylinder petrol and diesel
  • Horsepower: Petrol:122, 156 Diesel: 109, 136
  • Transmission: 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission or a new 6-speed manual transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The B-Class never received a lot of attention out on the market, but things should change significantly with the modifications it has undergone. It now sits at 1557 mm (61 inches), which is about 50.8 mm (2 inches) shorter than its predecessor. It also sits 20 mm (.78 inches) lower with its new sports suspension.

Mercedes has opted for a new front and rear design, with a wide, prominent grille and new headlamps that now extend along the sides at the front. The rear end gets a wide rear window, two-piece tail lights with horizontally offset meander, and a large tailgate with a low loading sill.

Mercedes has also tried to improve on the aerodynamics of the B-Class to offer the best in its class. The bonnet has been tweaked to flow seamlessly into the A-pillar and the roof line descends sleekly to the striking roof spoiler, to give the new B-Class an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.26.

Interior

The interior for the new B-Class has also been modified significantly and despite the fact that the new B-Class has been lowered by almost five centimeters, it offers more interior space than before. The sitting position is more upright and the headroom has been further improved, making the B-Class one of the most spacious cars in its segment.

As far as details go, the B-Class features a large, three-dimensional decorative element spanning the entire dashboard, which is covered with stitched Artico man-made leather. The dashboard features three large circular vents in the center, unique grilles, and a high quality screen with sleek dimensions.

The new B-Class gets a 3-spoke steering wheel that incorporates a silver chrome insert in the middle spoke, an instrument cluster with four analogue round dials, and suspended pointers in 6 o'clock position. The seats finish off the look with contrasting stitching to reinforce the car’s sporty image.

Customers will be able to choose between four equipment packages - Chrome, Sports, Exclusive, and Night - to customize the B-Class in any which way they desire.

Engine