Motoring.Today
Back to reviews
3.8/5· Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019)

2012 – 2019· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.6/10

Very good

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is back, and this time it’s electric! This retro icon has been reborn for the eco-conscious commuter, blending practicality with a premium feel. But does it deliver the goods for budget-savvy drivers? Let’s dive into the details!

At a glance

120

hp · Power

462

miles · Range / tank

8.7s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £384/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Luxurious interior with high-quality materials
  • Advanced safety and technology features
  • Available electric variant with eco-friendly credentials

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited boot space compared to some rivals
  • Higher price point than some competitors
  • Electric variant may require more planning for long journeys

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£384/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,300 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance38/10
practicality40/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel40/10
comfort42/10
equipment37/10
green credentials30/10
handling35/10
reliability40/10
safety45/10

Theo's AI summary

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019) is a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, practicality, and eco-friendliness. With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and the option of an electric variant, it caters to modern drivers' needs. The vehicle's performance, comfort, and safety features make it a top recommendation for families and individuals alike. Whether you opt for the traditional petrol or diesel models or embrace the electric variant, the B-Class delivers on all fronts, making it a worthy contender in the compact MPV market.

Best match for

  • Practical families
  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£140/month

Insurance

£85/month

Road Tax

£13349/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£13634/month

Could this fit your budget?

Check your eligibility in under 60 seconds with no impact on your credit score.

  • Real monthly payments
  • Personalised to you
  • No obligation

Safe, secure and confidential

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019) offers a refined driving character that combines agility with stability. Its compact design allows for easy manoeuvrability in urban environments, while the advanced suspension system ensures a smooth ride on longer journeys. The integratio

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012-2019) is praised for its premium interior, spacious cabin, and comfortable ride. However, some critics note that the engine options can be underwhelming, and the infotainment system may feel dated compared to rivals. Overall, it’s a solid choice for families seeking a compact MPV with a touch of luxury.

Read full review
Autocar

The design of the B-Class is generally well-received, with a sleek and modern appearance that aligns with Mercedes-Benz's brand identity. The interior is noted for its high-quality materials and user-friendly layout, although some may find the rear visibility lacking. Overall, it strikes a good balance between style and practicality.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the B-Class are mixed, with some owners reporting issues with electronics and engine performance. However, many appreciate the overall build quality and safety features. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure longevity, making it a reasonable choice for those prioritising reliability in a premium compact MPV.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Mercedes-Benz B-Class are flexible, with various plans available to suit different budgets. Whether opting for a lease or a purchase, potential buyers can find a solution that aligns with their financial situation. The residual value of the B-Class is also strong, making it a wise investment in the long run.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class are competitive within its class, particularly when considering the efficiency of the electric model. Regular maintenance is straightforward, and the brand's reputation for reliability adds peace of mind to ownership. Fuel efficiency is commendable, especially with the hybrid options available, making it a cost-effective choice for families and individuals alike.

Charging & fuel

For the electric variant, charging is convenient with various options available, including home charging stations and public charging points. The cost of electricity is generally lower than petrol or diesel, contributing to lower overall running costs. For petrol and diesel models, fuel efficiency remains a strong point, ensuring that drivers can enjoy long journeys without frequent stops.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2012

    Launch of the second generation B-Class

  2. 2015

    Introduction of the B-Class Electric Drive

  3. 2018

    Facelift with updated technology and design

Read full launch story

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class was designed to offer a versatile and spacious compact MPV that caters to families and urban drivers alike. Its purpose is to combine practicality with the luxury and performance expected from the Mercedes-Benz brand. Since its launch, the B-Class has evolved significantly, incorporating advanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and a focus on sustainability. The introduction of the electric variant marks a pivotal moment in its evolution, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles while retaining the essence of a retro icon reborn.

Compare with alternatives

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019) competes well in the premium compact segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology, though it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Golf, Focus, and A3.

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Reference only

The Golf is positioned as a premium compact hatchback, known for its quality and versatility.

vs features
The Golf offers a more engaging driving experience with a sportier feel compared to the B-Class. It features high-quality interior materials and advanced tech options, including a user-friendly infotainment system.
vs price
The Golf is generally priced similarly to the B-Class, but can be slightly less expensive depending on the trim and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Focus Hatchback

Reference only

The Focus is known for its fun-to-drive characteristics and value for money, appealing to a younger demographic.

vs features
While the Focus provides a sportier driving experience, the interior quality and tech features may not match the premium feel of the B-Class. However, it offers a good range of equipment for the price.
vs price
The Focus is typically less expensive than the B-Class, making it a more budget-friendly option for buyers.
No Motoring.Today review

Audi A3 Hatchback

Reference only

The A3 is positioned as a premium compact car, offering luxury features and a refined driving experience.

vs features
The A3 rivals the B-Class in terms of cabin quality and tech, often featuring a more upscale interior and advanced infotainment options, but may not offer as much practicality.
vs price
The A3 is usually priced higher than the B-Class, reflecting its premium brand status and features.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

B180 SE (11/14-) 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2019
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.7 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
42 mpg
Range
462 mi
CO₂
153 g/km
Insurance group
15
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£23,035
B180 SE (11/14-) 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2019
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.4 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
45 mpg
Range
495 mi
CO₂
142 g/km
Insurance group
15
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£24,635
B180 SE Executive 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.7 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
50 mpg
Range
550 mi
CO₂
129 g/km
Insurance group
15
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£23,730
B180 SE Executive 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2017
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.4 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
51 mpg
Range
561 mi
CO₂
127 g/km
Insurance group
15
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£25,330
B200 SE 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2017
Power
153 bhp
0–60 mph
7.9 s
Top speed
137 mph
Torque
250 Nm
Economy
49 mpg
Range
539 mi
CO₂
130 g/km
Insurance group
19
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£24,260
B200 SE 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2017
Power
153 bhp
0–60 mph
7.6 s
Top speed
137 mph
Torque
250 Nm
Economy
51 mpg
Range
561 mi
CO₂
127 g/km
Insurance group
19
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£25,860

+ 128 more trim variants

FAQs

What is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a compact MPV that combines practicality with luxury. Launched in 2012, it has evolved to include an electric variant, catering to eco-conscious drivers while maintaining advanced technology and comfort.
What are the running costs of the B-Class?
Running costs for the B-Class are competitive, especially with its electric powertrain, which reduces fuel expenses. Maintenance costs are reasonable, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious commuters.
How does the B-Class perform on the road?
The B-Class offers a smooth driving experience in town, on motorways, and B-roads. Its electric powertrain provides instant torque, while the well-tuned suspension ensures comfort and agility.
What financing options are available for the B-Class?
The B-Class starts at £23,000, with flexible financing options available. A typical PCP deal requires a £3,000 deposit and monthly payments of around £299 at an APR of 5.9%.
What are the pros and cons of the B-Class?
Pros include a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, spacious interior, and strong brand reliability. Cons involve limited range for long journeys and a higher initial purchase price compared to some rivals.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class (2012 - 2019) (2012–2019)

From £384/month