Reinvention of the Mercedes B-Class

Road test
Mercedes-Benz B200 CDI
Top speed: 131mph; Combined fuel consumption: 64.2mpg; CO2: 115g/km; Price: £23,500 (est)

Mercedes-Benz's mid-size B-Class wasn't a big hit in this country, although it did quite well elsewhere. Its ride was awful, especially on rutted UK roads, it looked dull and it was no great fun to drive.

Now there's a new version, and - well, it still looks a bit dull, but is better to drive than before and, at last, it rides rather well.

Mercedes is lifting the new B-Class further up market, with a far classier interior and more room for passengers and luggage. Clever aerodynamics have helped make it pretty frugal, with diesel versions managing 64.2mpg.

There are four new engines: two 1.6 litre petrol units and two 1.8 diesels, all with fuel-saving stop-start technology as standard. The more powerful versions are badged B200, the less powerful B180.

There is a choice of three dashboard trims: matt finish wood which smacks of Seventies British Leyland, or there is a silver honeycomb finish or polished black wood, which looks smart and modern.

The more powerful diesel engine, with 136hp, is smooth and willing, the 109hp version less so. The best combination I drove was the 122hp B180 petrol version with a twin-clutch, seven-speed automatic gearbox, which swapped ratios smoothly and fast and felt nimble, if not exactly sporting.

If you opt for the sports suspension and low-profile tyres, handling is improved but the ride quality flies out the window and even at low speeds every dot and pimple on the road makes itself known.

Mercedes claims there are more new technology changes in this car than in any other model change in the company's history, and it is certainly much better than the old car, especially the ride. But the fact remains that the competition, such as Ford's C-Max and the new Vauxhall Zafira, offer better value.