On the flip side, the array of buttons on the stereo (which gets a CD changer and satellite radio for 2009) makes the job harder for the driver. It took me several minutes of deep thinking and searching to match my cell phone to the car's Bluetooth system (now standard in Turbo trim).
The most attractive aspect of the B200 interior is still the incredibly roomy, well-executed layout. I even sat in the back with one of my colleagues whose large belt size is similar to mine and we never complained about a lack of space.
Same thing up front, where the amount of room is more than adequate for any body shape or size. As for the cargo area, it offers more than double the room of the Audi A3.
On a negative note, however, access to the interior is definitely not easy. Due to the "sandwich" chassis (in which the engine is designed to slide under the front occupants in the event of a head-on collision), you almost have to climb to get on board -- the step is that high. Adding insult to injury, those who are slightly taller than average have to watch their head because the top of the door opening is a bit low.
A competent tourer
Motivating the B200 Turbo is a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 193 horsepower (about 60 more than the naturally-aspirated model). That's more than enough in daily driving; in fact, accelerations and passing maneuvers are surprisingly linear and precise. This little mill offers great flexibility thanks to the company's AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic transmission ($1,500).
The B200 Turbo does not come without flaws, though. Ride comfort, for one, does not exactly live up to one's expectations. Also, on rough, snow-covered roads, the car tends to jolt passengers a bit too much.
Alone in its class
Despite a couple of shortcomings, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz B200 Turbo arguably stands alone in its class. Dynamic handling, abundant room and a potent engine like we have here can't be found in the competition, especially when factoring in the Mercedes name and luxury. It's a sensible choice for anyone looking to add some German glamour to their car.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
The most attractive aspect of the B200 interior is still the incredibly roomy, well-executed layout. I even sat in the back with one of my colleagues whose large belt size is similar to mine and we never complained about a lack of space.
Same thing up front, where the amount of room is more than adequate for any body shape or size. As for the cargo area, it offers more than double the room of the Audi A3.
On a negative note, however, access to the interior is definitely not easy. Due to the "sandwich" chassis (in which the engine is designed to slide under the front occupants in the event of a head-on collision), you almost have to climb to get on board -- the step is that high. Adding insult to injury, those who are slightly taller than average have to watch their head because the top of the door opening is a bit low.
 |
| Up front, the amount of room is more than adequate for any body shape or size. |
A competent tourer
Motivating the B200 Turbo is a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 193 horsepower (about 60 more than the naturally-aspirated model). That's more than enough in daily driving; in fact, accelerations and passing maneuvers are surprisingly linear and precise. This little mill offers great flexibility thanks to the company's AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic transmission ($1,500).
The B200 Turbo does not come without flaws, though. Ride comfort, for one, does not exactly live up to one's expectations. Also, on rough, snow-covered roads, the car tends to jolt passengers a bit too much.
Alone in its class
Despite a couple of shortcomings, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz B200 Turbo arguably stands alone in its class. Dynamic handling, abundant room and a potent engine like we have here can't be found in the competition, especially when factoring in the Mercedes name and luxury. It's a sensible choice for anyone looking to add some German glamour to their car.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
2009 Mercedes B-Class B200 Turbo
2009 Mercedes B-Class B200 Turbo
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