First Image of New Mercedes B-Klasse Revealed

Mercedes have released new information about the new B-Klasse using a small spoon, but we can finally show you the first official image of the compact five-door that will debut at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The first official image, which fell into the hand of Joke for Blog, of the exterior reveals a mix aesthetic of elements from other models, which make the second generation model look more svelte than before. The car is clearly focused on the practical side of things, as fuel economy has been the main focus for Mercedes engineers. The second generation B-Klasse has grown from its MINI-sized proportions of old to a total length of 4,359 mm, which is 86 mm longer than before. The car is also wider and a bit shorter, but you wouldn’t call its stance sporty. A new petrol-powerd version will come to market offering a 1.6-liter engine that produces 122 hp and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque in the base model B 180, or 156 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) in the B 200. Diesel-powered versions will come in the form of either the B 180 CDI that offers 109 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque from a 4-cylinder 1.8-liter, or 136 hp and 300 Nm or torque in the case of the B 200 CDI. It’s a real powerhouse this one! (ironic tone detected) The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Klasse will be sportiest yet as a high-performance AMG variant was confirmed by the tuning arm's outgoing head, Volker Mornhinweg, two months ago. autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.