Mercedes reveals BMW 1-Series rival
Summary
Mercedes will take on the BMW 1-Series with a new premium hatchback revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Mercedes B-Class.
The premium hatchback will go up against a busy market with the likes of the Lexus CT200h, Audi A3 and even the Alfa Romeo Giulietta providing competition for the new model.
Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Development, Mercedes-Benz Cars, said: "No model change in the history of Mercedes-Benz has ever seen so many new developments introduced in one fell swoop,"
Described as a 'quantum leap' by Mercedes, the B-Class is lower, more efficient than ever and comes with an emphasis on agility and handling.
This is boosted by styling designed to improve aerodynamics and give the car a sporty feel, right down to the roof spoiler and pronounced wheel arches.
The sportier design does not limit interior space, says Mercedes, which has increased both headroom and legroom for the new B-Class.
As expected , the Mercedes B-Class is generously decked out in leather inside with high levels of personalisation available.
From launch, two 1.6-litre petrol engines deliver 122bhp and 156bhp. A couple of diesel options comprising a 1.8-litre CDI and a 2.0-litre CDI develop 109bhp and 136bhp respectively, the former representing the most efficient in the range in terms of fuel economy.
The first Mercedes B-Class models in the UK will go on sale in March, where it will go up against the BMW 1-Series, a premium hatchback launched earlier this year in the UK.
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