The next-generation B-Klasse will be developed on a new platform that Mercedes called MFA. It will be driven by the front wheels and it will be made of a conventional unibody frame, as opposed to the current sandwich structure, making its production a bit cheaper. The same platform will probably be used in the next A-Klasse, as well as other by-products, including a compact SUV and a small sedan.
Mercedes-Benz will use Renault sourced engines for the lower-end versions of the B-Klasse, including turbocharged 1.2-liter, 1.4-liter and 1.8-liter petrol units. A 1.6-liter diesel powerplant, also supplied by Renault, will be included in the range. The top of the range will be powered by an in-house 2.2 liter diesel engine.
The company will discontinue the use of continuously variable transmissions in the range and instead go for a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox, along with a 6-speed manual. Both variants will have stop/start technology for increased fuel efficiency.
The same platform will be used for the construction of three other variants: a plug-in electric called E-Cell, an extended-range petrol-electric – E-Cell Plus, and a fuel cell – F-Cell.
The exterior is mostly the same, except for the introduction of LED headlights and tail lamps as a design upgrade. Its dimensions are mainly unaltered, but the cabin size has increased, thanks to the lowered floor. The quality of the interior detailing will also be moving up a notch, with features adopted from the bigger C-Klasse.
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