Depending on the number and position of the seats, the load capacity can be increased from 544 to up to 2245 litres, which corresponds to the carrying capacity of large station wagons.
As impressive as the new model's functionality may be, Breitschwerdt is quick to point out that the B-class will also be a lot of fun to drive. ''Innovations in the field of suspension technology have contributed greatly to a successful combination of agility, safety and comfort -- with all these attributes enjoying equal importance.''
Mercedes-Benz will offer B-class with lots of engine choices around the world (gas and diesel), but Canadians will get only two gasoline engines choices to start with; more may follow, including a diesel.
Breitschwerdt declines to give any details about these new engines right now, except to say that they are both in the 2-litre size and both will provide lots of power.
On the technical front, Breitschwerdt is especially impressed with the new parabolic rear axle, which ''makes a major contribution to the stable, sporty and precise handling, as well as the excellent ride comfort of the new B-Class.''
Also, the electromechanical power steering system generates its servo effect with an electric motor, varying it as a function of road speed. This
means the servo action is greater at low speeds than at high speeds, thus making it easier to park or maneuver slowly.
The Electronic Stability Program is improved and now includes the Steer Control steering assistance system. This operates in tandem with the electromechanical power steering system, providing the appropriate servo assistance in critical handling situations to help the driver stabilize the vehicle.
A further special feature included as standard for the B-class is the selective damping system which adapts the shock absorber response to the current driving situation. A soft shock absorber configuration ensures a high level of ride comfort during normal driving, Breitschwerdt says, while maximum damping force is applied when taking a curve, to give the B-Class maximum stability.
The sandwich principle that delivers improved interior space is also the centre piece of the safety concept in the new B-Class, since the arrangement of the powertrain makes for a greater effective front end length available for crash deformation. During a severe frontal impact the drive unit is not moved backwards towards the interior, but slides downwards along the likewise inclined pedal floor panel.
Because the occupants of B-class have to sit on top of the sandwich section, they are often above the impact zone of a side crash, and therefore safer. ''This means that, despite its compact exterior dimensions, the B-Class provides the level of occupant safety typically found in a Mercedes.''
More details will be available on the B-class model in due course, as Mercedes-Benz Canada readies it for its introduction.
photo:DaimlerChrysler AG
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| Mercedes-Benz B-Class (photo: DaimlerChrysler AG) |
Mercedes-Benz will offer B-class with lots of engine choices around the world (gas and diesel), but Canadians will get only two gasoline engines choices to start with; more may follow, including a diesel.
Breitschwerdt declines to give any details about these new engines right now, except to say that they are both in the 2-litre size and both will provide lots of power.
On the technical front, Breitschwerdt is especially impressed with the new parabolic rear axle, which ''makes a major contribution to the stable, sporty and precise handling, as well as the excellent ride comfort of the new B-Class.''
Also, the electromechanical power steering system generates its servo effect with an electric motor, varying it as a function of road speed. This
 |
| Mercedes-Benz B-Class (photo: DaimlerChrysler AG) |
The Electronic Stability Program is improved and now includes the Steer Control steering assistance system. This operates in tandem with the electromechanical power steering system, providing the appropriate servo assistance in critical handling situations to help the driver stabilize the vehicle.
A further special feature included as standard for the B-class is the selective damping system which adapts the shock absorber response to the current driving situation. A soft shock absorber configuration ensures a high level of ride comfort during normal driving, Breitschwerdt says, while maximum damping force is applied when taking a curve, to give the B-Class maximum stability.
The sandwich principle that delivers improved interior space is also the centre piece of the safety concept in the new B-Class, since the arrangement of the powertrain makes for a greater effective front end length available for crash deformation. During a severe frontal impact the drive unit is not moved backwards towards the interior, but slides downwards along the likewise inclined pedal floor panel.
 |
| Mercedes-Benz B-Class (photo: DaimlerChrysler AG) |
More details will be available on the B-class model in due course, as Mercedes-Benz Canada readies it for its introduction.
photo:DaimlerChrysler AG
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