2005 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) 200 Turbo CVT FWD (193 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz’s peculiar idea of betting on premium minivans in all sorts of segments in the early to mid-2000s didn’t quite catch on, as both the A-Class and the R-Class went the way of the Dodo in their respective shapes. That said, one such model not only soldiered on but was actually the epitome of success and the first of its kind.

That model is the first ever Mercedes-Benz B-Class, a premium compact MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) that marked the carmaker’s foray into this highly contested European segment. Based on the underpinnings of the smaller A-Class (W169), the B-Class was designed to combine the practicality of a compact family car with the comfort and technology typically found in larger Mercedes-Benz models.

Design-wise, the first-generation B-Class was characterized by a somewhat upright and boxy shape that maximized interior space while maintaining a relatively compact footprint. Its main battleground was the urban environment, and it offered an alternative to a compact soccer-mom SUV.

Despite being as small as a Volkswagen Golf and on the less expensive side of the market, the front end was dominated by an oversized version of the iconic Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star, flanked by headlights reminiscent of larger models. The high roofline ensured abundant headroom for all passengers, while the oversized windows and slightly elevated driving position provided good visibility.

The A-Class W169 platform was responsible for the high seating position. Due to the car’s small size, it used a sandwich floor for safety reasons. The transverse powertrains were positioned at a tilted angle. In the event of a frontal impact, the engine and transmission would slide beneath the passenger compartment, absorbing some of the kinetic energy. The double floor would also provide extra safety in the event of a side impact.

Another standout feature of the model was its interior space and versatility. Despite its compact size, the passenger cabin was spacious and flexible, partly thanks to the flat floor and the minivan-like layout.

Relatively high-quality materials, especially for its segment, were found throughout the interior, and an ergonomic layout was used. Like in the smaller A-Class, the rear seats could be folded to significantly expand the already large luggage compartment.

Under the hood, the first-ever B-Class offered various powertrain options, consisting of gasoline and diesel engines. Gasoline options ranged from a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder to a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter variant. There was also a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with three output levels.

Except for the 1.5-liter entry level, which had a 5-speed, all powertrains were paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). For this first generation, power was sent exclusively to the front wheels.

The B-Class also featured an array of safety and technology features, including standard safety equipment such as multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and the Comand infotainment system from its bigger brothers in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.