Besides the key that needs an extra effort to pull out of the ignition, and the angle of the seatbacks that adjust with a knob instead of a lever (typical of German cars), I have only good things to say about the B200's cockpit.
Competition
Besides the Audi A3, there isn't really a direct competitor for the B-Class in Canada, and then again, it would measure up better with the B200 Turbo which costs $35,400 and up. The A3 2.0T is offered from $33,800. My B200 tester carries a base price of $31,400 and includes the $1,500 Premium Package (cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, lighting package, heated seats, etc.) and the $1,500 CVT automatic, for a total of $34,400.
You could also arguably consider the B200 as a more-luxurious alternative to the Toyota Matrix and Kia Rondo, a type of vehicle that's become more and more popular.
Conclusion
So, is the B-Class worthy of the Silver Star? I tend to think it is, since it possesses most of the elements that make a Mercedes a Mercedes. It's not very quick, and the CVT gearbox is a little lazy, but in general, I adored my week behind the wheel. And despite the reliability problems of the company's recent products, there's a reason why there still are so many repeat buyers.
In addition, it's $7,000 less than a C-Class, so the entry price to get into a Mercedes-Benz hasn't been as "affordable" for over 15 years.
However, be prepared to get some snobbishly nasty stares from S-Class owners when you'll visit the dealership for your oil change.
Low fuel consumption
High driving position
Impressive interior space
Lazy automatic transmission (unless switching to the Sport mode)
Seatback angle adjustment is set with a knob
None
photo:Michel Deslauriers
 |
| The B200 is powered by a 134-hp 4-cylinder engine. |
Competition
Besides the Audi A3, there isn't really a direct competitor for the B-Class in Canada, and then again, it would measure up better with the B200 Turbo which costs $35,400 and up. The A3 2.0T is offered from $33,800. My B200 tester carries a base price of $31,400 and includes the $1,500 Premium Package (cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, lighting package, heated seats, etc.) and the $1,500 CVT automatic, for a total of $34,400.
You could also arguably consider the B200 as a more-luxurious alternative to the Toyota Matrix and Kia Rondo, a type of vehicle that's become more and more popular.
Conclusion
So, is the B-Class worthy of the Silver Star? I tend to think it is, since it possesses most of the elements that make a Mercedes a Mercedes. It's not very quick, and the CVT gearbox is a little lazy, but in general, I adored my week behind the wheel. And despite the reliability problems of the company's recent products, there's a reason why there still are so many repeat buyers.
In addition, it's $7,000 less than a C-Class, so the entry price to get into a Mercedes-Benz hasn't been as "affordable" for over 15 years.
However, be prepared to get some snobbishly nasty stares from S-Class owners when you'll visit the dealership for your oil change.
 |
High driving position
Impressive interior space
 |
Lazy automatic transmission (unless switching to the Sport mode)
Seatback angle adjustment is set with a knob
 |
None
photo:Michel Deslauriers
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