Mercedes B-Class mini MPV (2012-2014)

When the Mercedes B-Class was introduced in 2005, there weren’t many cars of its type on the market, but today the mini-MPV class is brimming with rivals like the Ford C-MAX, Volkswagen Golf SV, Toyota Verso, Citroen C4 Picasso and Skoda Yeti. The B-Class now counts the relatively new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer as its main competitor.

The B-Class offers a choice of two petrol and three diesel engines, plus an all-electric option. The diesel models are the 1.5-litre B180 CDI, the 2.1-litre B200 CDI and a more powerful 2.1-litre B220 CDI – the top-of-the-range model. The petrol models are the B180 – powered by a 1.6-litre engine – and the B200, with a more powerful version of the same engine.

All models manage reasonable fuel economy, but the diesels outperform the petrols in this regard. The entry-level B180 CDI and mid-range B200 CDI both return close to 70mpg and only cost £20 a year to tax. The diesels are also more enjoyable to drive thanks to their extra pulling power and smooth nature.

Inside, the B-Class is smart and well built, offering both front and rear-seat passengers plenty of head and legroom. The boot is a good size and very useful with the rear seats folded down flat.

There are three trim levels to choose from, but all of them feature plenty of standard equipment, which you’d expect when you pay premium Mercedes prices.

If you’re seriously considering buying a Mercedes B-Class, we think the best model to go for is the B180 CDI. The electric version aside, it’s the most efficient model in the range and the extra pulling power compared to its petrol counterpart is useful when the car is fully laden. The entry-level SE trim includes plenty of standard equipment, so you should only step up to the more expensive trims if style is really important to you.