The entry-level Mercedes-Benz in Canada is the economical B200. Mercedes-Benz refers to this tall four-door wagon as a Compact Sports Tourer. Due to financial markets, you won't find this attractive unit in the US; for the time being, it's a Canada-exclusive North American offering.
Small size encompasses plenty of style and cargo space
The B200 exhibits design language typical of Mercedes-Benz of late. In fact, from its grille-mounted three-point star to its one-piece tailgate, it could be described as a junior sibling to the R-Class. The overall look is a meld of sportiness and utilitarianism that delivers the majesty of a Mercedes-Benz in a small, boxy package.
The interior design team succeeded in capturing Mercedes-Benz DNA in the look and feel of the economy class cabin. My tester was finished in a durable cloth material that imparted a sense of quality. I thought the architecture and layout of the cabin was appealing, however several disappointments were noted.
Firstly, the centre console does not provide a deep storage bin. A small slide-out tray is as good as it gets for storage between the front seats. Sizeable door pockets and a large glovebox compensate somewhat for the shortcoming, but I missed the ability to toss a camera, wallet and other such items into a centre console bin.
Another application I disliked was the use of a rotary wheel to raise and lower the reclining seat backs. VW also uses this gadgetry to adjust seat backs, which make it a pain to fully recline the seatback when wishing to rest.
One last gripe pertains to audio controls. Steering wheel audio buttons include only volume control not station selection or mode, the absence of which forces the driver to reach to small dash-mounted buttons to access such functions.
 |
| The entry-level Mercedes-Benz in Canada is the economical B200. |
Small size encompasses plenty of style and cargo space
The B200 exhibits design language typical of Mercedes-Benz of late. In fact, from its grille-mounted three-point star to its one-piece tailgate, it could be described as a junior sibling to the R-Class. The overall look is a meld of sportiness and utilitarianism that delivers the majesty of a Mercedes-Benz in a small, boxy package.
The interior design team succeeded in capturing Mercedes-Benz DNA in the look and feel of the economy class cabin. My tester was finished in a durable cloth material that imparted a sense of quality. I thought the architecture and layout of the cabin was appealing, however several disappointments were noted.
Firstly, the centre console does not provide a deep storage bin. A small slide-out tray is as good as it gets for storage between the front seats. Sizeable door pockets and a large glovebox compensate somewhat for the shortcoming, but I missed the ability to toss a camera, wallet and other such items into a centre console bin.
Another application I disliked was the use of a rotary wheel to raise and lower the reclining seat backs. VW also uses this gadgetry to adjust seat backs, which make it a pain to fully recline the seatback when wishing to rest.
One last gripe pertains to audio controls. Steering wheel audio buttons include only volume control not station selection or mode, the absence of which forces the driver to reach to small dash-mounted buttons to access such functions.
 |
| The interior design team succeeded in capturing Mercedes-Benz DNA in the look and feel of the economy class cabin. |