Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The B-class aims to offer a premium badge medium-size car that can do all the things a typical compact MPV will do, without sending out the message to all around that you drive an MPV. That's what the marketing department would have you believe, but perhaps we're being too cynical. The five-seat B-class takes up less road space than a Ford Focus, but offers more carrying capacity than a Ford Mondeo estate. Choosing the Easy-Vario option also allows removal of the rear seat backs and the front passenger seat. The B-class is also good to drive and has a wide range of safety features. As you might expect, all this versatility and a Mercedes-Benz badge comes at a price.

SE, CDI, TURBO

Standard cars come with electric front windows and door mirrors, selective damping, a space-saver spare wheel, air conditioning, height-adjustable driver's seat, two-level luggage compartment floor, trip computer, folding rear seats with removable seat cushions, reach and height steering adjustment, active front head restraints, front, side and curtain airbags, alarm, electronic stability programme with traction control and steer control and seatbelt reminders. SE models have 16-inch alloys, colour-coded door handles and mirrors, chrome highlights, leather-trimmed steering wheel, electric rear windows, automatic headlights and rain-sensing windscreen wipers. The B200 Turbo has 18-inch AMG alloy wheels, a different grille design, sports suspension (comfort suspension available at no extra cost), unique seat fabric, white illumination instrument panel and sports pedals.

2.0 TURBO