Mercedes-Benz Starts Production Of 2019 B-Class MPV In Germany

Mercedes-Benz has commenced production of the third-generation B-Class at the Rastatt plant in Germany.

Unlike the A-Class, which is built in several facilities around the world, the B-Class will only be made at Merc’s Rastatt factory. The latter is the lead facility for the production of Mercedes-Benz compact cars worldwide. The plant also builds the A-Class and the GLA crossover and rolled out more than 330,000 vehicles last year.

Mercedes’ family of compact cars now includes seven models: A-Class, A-Class Sedan (in standard and long wheelbase configurations), B-Class, CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, and the GLA. The CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, and GLA haven’t been redesigned yet but new generation models are on the way. The upcoming GLB SUV will expand the compact family to eight models.

The new B-Class features a more dynamic design than its predecessor and is said to be more agile on the road while offering greater comfort and safety. For example, the compact premium MPV is fitted with Active Safety driving assistance systems that were previously reserved for the luxury segment.

For the first time, the B-Class can drive semi-autonomously in certain situations, thanks to improved camera and radar systems with a range of up to 500 meters (1,640 ft). It’s also fitted with Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Brake Assist systems.

The 2019 B-Class also offers the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system that is able to adapt to the user and learn continuously. Mercedes will start taking orders in Europe for the new B-Class from December 3, 2018, and deliveries are set to begin in February 2019.