Mercedes-Benz Introduces the Vision B Concept in Paris

Power for the small German people-mover is provided by a new turbodiesel featuring second-generation common-rail

Many of Vision B's components, including its sandwich-type body structure, come from the 2005 Europe-only A-Class. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada)

technology, which enhances power, smoothness and refinement. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder CDI produces 140 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, respectable figures for such a small and efficient engine. Although performance stats have not been released, the front-wheel drive Vision B should turn similar results as the slightly smaller A200 CDI equipped with the same engine. Another strong point of this motor includes low fuel consumption: M-B claims that the Vision B is a miser at the pumps, sipping less than 6 liters per 100 km (just under 40 mpg) driven. A particle filter ensures that tailpipe emissions are within Europe's strictest standards.

Given the similarities between the Vision B and the new A-Class, including its dimensions and powertrain, Mercedes-Benz has made it crystal clear that the Vision B will take the role of the B-Class. Seeing as nearly every vehicle to bear the Vision tag has come to fruition, except for the compact Vision SLA

Not surprisingly, many of the interior components of the A-Class made it into the Vision B. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada)

concept that influenced the 2005 SLK roadster, it will not be a question of "if" but rather "when" the Vision B will arrive as the B-Class. Given the quick turnaround time demonstrated between the Vision CLS and the production CLS-Class, such a vehicle is expected to hit showroom floors in a matter of months rather than years.

Whether or not the B-Class will end up on our shores is a completely different story. Mercedes was supposed to bring the 2005 A-Class to Canada as a competitor to BMW's 1-Series 5-door hatchback and Audi's A3 Sportback, but these plans have been scuttled for the time being. The A-Class was turned down for North American exportation because it did not fit with Mercedes' North American image of grand, luxury vehicles.