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SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Citan still "trapped" in Northern Scandinavia

By Adji | Published Monday, 12 March 2012

The arrival of Volker Mornhinweg, former AMG boss, as head of the Mercedes-Benz Vans division has eventually paid off as a clever strategic manouevre aiming to heat things up in a market segment which lacks the emotional side. Apart from implementing alternative and more efficient drive solutions, Mr. Mornhinweg has now embarked on the mission of completely refreshing the entire vehicle lineup, starting from the bottom end up to the top models.

To boost sales and "hunt" for new customers, at the IAA Hannover show in September a new line of compact commercial models under the name of Citan is set to make the official debut, with sales following shortly after. This new addition is the fruit of the cooperation with Renault, which looks to spawn several other new technologies and models. The underpinnings come straight from the new Kangoo van and the efficient engines are co-developed by the two carmakers. The exterior styling will feature a more car-oriented influence and, given the teaser sketches we saw a while ago, the new design language has been applied and so the Citan is somehow resembling the new A-Class. Inside, the Mercedes-Benz touch will be visible in the general architecture of the dashboard and in the assembly quality, which aims to deliver a solid, premium package.

Image Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2013, citan, commercial, compact, mercedes-benz, spy, spyshots, vehicle | Leave a comment

The new A-Class – the sporty compact model from Mercedes-Benz: "All set for attack"

By Adji | Published Monday, 5 March 2012

The heartbeat of a new generation: at the centre of Mercedes-Benz's presence at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012) will be the world premiere of the new A-Class. The company is opening up a whole new chapter in the compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), and extremely efficient, with emissions from just 99 g/CO2/km. At the same time the new model underlines that for Mercedes-Benz safety is not a question of price - the standard specification includes, amongst other things, the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system.

"A is for Attack: the A-Class is a clear statement of the new dynamism of the
Mercedes-Benz brand", explains Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is completely new, down to the last detail. In automotive development, it's not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper. Our engineers and designers have made the very most of that opportunity."

Design and dynamism are obvious characteristics of the new A-Class even at first glance, simply in the way it sits up to 18 centimetres closer to the road than its predecessor. The radical new design idiom that was so enthusiastically received upon its first appearance with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been rigorously applied for the series-production model. With their fresh interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sporty flair. "Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed", explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "The almost sculptural lines of the A-Class are very typical for Mercedes. The feature lines, particularly along the sides of the car, then give the A-Class structure and tautness."

The objective when it came to the interior design was to complement the sporty look of the exterior. On top of this the car has a high-quality feel about it that is unique in this segment, achieved both through the design idiom as such and through the choice and combinations of the high-quality materials used. As seen in the Concept A-CLASS, there is an option allowing a smartphone to be fully integrated into the operating and display system. A special app makes it possible to use the full functionality of the iPhone®, and in due course also of other smartphones, in the car.

All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver chrome", giving them a genuine metallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "The motto we used when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness, newly interpreted'."

Particular visual highlights include, for example, the air vents, which stand out like "sparkling jewels" (Sinkwitz), so underlining the exceptional quality of the interior. The sporty character of the vehicle is further emphasised by the integral seats (optional extra) in the front. The rear seat is similarly sporty in appearance and can accommodate up to three passengers.

As well as the basic specification, which can be individualised with a wide range of options, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put together with the requirements of customers in mind: "Urban", "Style" and "AMG Sport".

The world premiere of the new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/ 1433 millimetres) will take place at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012). It will be making its way to European dealers in September 2012.

Sporty exclusivity: the A-Class Sport offers a fresh definition of dynamism

For the first time, the performance specialists from AMG were involved in the development of the compact class from a very early stage. The result is the most dynamic version of the new model series - the A-Class Sport 'engineered by AMG', in which the visual affinity to the Concept A-CLASS is at its most evident - particularly in terms of the new diamond grille. The A-Class Sport features exclusive 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design with 235/40 R18 tyres all round and painted high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, together with red-painted brake callipers. These give an indication of the particularly dynamic driving qualities of the A 250 Sport and the A 220 CDI Sport, which are differentiated, amongst other factors, by a special AMG-developed front axle and a suspension that has been configured to match.

Hints of red on the AMG front and rear aprons also serve to emphasise the expressive positioning of the new model. The contrast between black trim and additional accents in red continues in the interior: the contrasting decorative topstitching on the steering wheel and seats is in this same bright shade, as are the seat belts. The ambient lighting of the instruments and the highlight rings of the air vents are similarly red.

Drive system: new petrol and diesel-powered engines

A broad range of both petrol and diesel engines has something to suit every performance requirement, whilst also demonstrating the current state of the art in terms of efficiency: for the first time, a Mercedes-Benz will produce emissions of just 99 g of CO2 per kilometre.

The bandwidth of the new generation of petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres ranges from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 and 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 through to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Common to all is the combination of direct injection and exhaust gas turbocharging, a more advanced combustion process and an extended stratification range for lean-burn operation that uses fast-acting injectors for the multiple injection of the fuel as well as on-demand multi-spark ignition. CAMTRONIC is an innovation that will be celebrating its world premiere in the 1.6-litre engine: adjusting the valve lift on the intake side restricts the amount of fresh mixture used in the partial load range, so reducing consumption.

The diesel engines also offer an impressively high level of efficiency and environmental compatibility, thanks to sophisticated injection technology and turbocharging. The A 180 CDI offers an output of 80 kW (109 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while the A 200 CDI has a maximum output of 100 kW (136 hp) and torque that rises to 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres, an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and torque of 350 Nm, delivering absolutely exceptional performance in the A-Class.

All engines in the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines can be combined either with the new six-speed manual transmission or, as an option, with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Further highlights: suspension, aerodynamics, safety

The dynamism promised by the design and drive system is realised by the suspension. A noticeably lower centre of gravity and a new 4-link rear axle provide the basis for this; and would also make the installation of 4MATIC all-wheel drive possible. Customers can choose between various suspension settings, among them the optional sports suspension with Direct-Steer system. The electromechanical steering in the A-Class has been completely redesigned, so that the electric motor for the power assistance now sits directly on the steering gear in the form of a compact and extremely precise Dual Pinion EPS.

Its exceptional aerodynamic performance, with a new record Cd value of 0.26, puts the A-Class at the top of its class. This is further helped by the standard roof spoiler, which hides all the unsightly aerials on the A-Class.

The A-Class is the only vehicle in its class to feature as standard a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist, which lowers the risk of rear-end collisions. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise braking response possible. This is initiated as soon as the driver steps firmly on the brake pedal.

The PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system is now available for the first time in the A-Class. This innovation, which was premiered in the S-Class in 2002, thus makes its very first appearance in the compact class. Core features of PRE-SAFE® are reversible belt tensioning, the closing of side windows and sliding sunroof in case of critical lateral dynamics and adjustment of the fully electric front passenger seat with memory function to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraint systems. PRE-SAFE® is always activated in response to critical longitudinal and lateral dynamics and may also be triggered upon intervention by certain assistance functions.

The democratisation of safety also encompasses an array of other assistance systems which have been adopted into the A-Class from the larger model series. These include:

- ATTENTION ASSIST (standard)
- Brake HOLD function (standard)
- Hill-Start Assist (standard)
- DISTRONIC PLUS
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist
- Speed Limit Assist (speed limit sign recognition)
- Active Parking Assist
- LINGUATRONIC
- Reversing camera

The Mercedes management team on the A-Class
"All set for attack"

"A is for Attack: the A-Class is a clear statement of the new dynamism of the
Mercedes-Benz brand. The A-Class is completely new, down to the last detail. In automotive development, it's not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper. Our engineers and designers have made the very most of that opportunity."
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars

"A new Mercedes must take the lead, in technical terms, in every class of vehicle. Whether we're talking about efficiency, driving dynamics or safety: the new A-Class raises the benchmark significantly. Pure driving enjoyment, plus exemplary efficiency – from a technical perspective that is the quintessence of the A-Class."
Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development

"With the new A-Class, the company is opening up a whole new chapter in the compact segment. The A-Class is the sporty Mercedes among the compact models. It's the right product at the right time - and has tremendous potential to tap into new target groups and markets."
Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing

"No other car in this segment is as progressive as the A-Class. The almost sculptural lines of the A-Class are very typical for Mercedes. The feature lines, particularly along the sides of the car, give the A-Class structure and tautness. This new dynamic style is also immediately apparent in the interior."
Professor Dr h.c. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, Mercedes-Benz Cars

"AMG was involved in the development of the A-Class right from the start. That is something very new in the compact segment. You can see evidence of this in the
A-Class sports models, which bear the quality seal 'engineered by AMG'. And they live up to that promise, not only with their exceptional looks, but with their equally exceptional driving dynamics."
Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH

The design
The most progressive design in the compact class

The appearance of the new A-Class reflects the new Mercedes-Benz design strategy. The result is what is known as a two-box design with a distinct character of its own, a sportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

Defined edges and tautly drawn surfaces mark out the exterior design of the new
A-Class. The constant interplay between concave and convex planes creates a characteristic play of light, particularly along the sides of the car, which contributes to its unique appearance.

Typical features of the long, sporty front are its pronounced V-shape, the separate headlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides. The "dropping line" apparent in the side profile dissipates towards the vehicle's front end. The design of the headlamps, together with the configuration of the light functions within them, is a key element of the design concept.
The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime running lamps and indicators. The so-called "flare" is made up of the feature line within the headlamp, the LED modules for the daytime running lamps and the bulb sets for the indicators. This signature effect gives the car its energetic look and so helps to define a new, youthful face for Mercedes.

The perfect interplay of dynamic design and excellent aerodynamics is nowhere more apparent than in the roof, with its smooth surfaces and taut, arcing curve. The silhouette reveals smooth, flowing lines finishing in a flat edge. The roof spoiler, which conveniently hides all the aerials, provides an extra sporty touch and gives structure to the roof assembly. The beltline rises to the rear to form a pronounced wedge-shape. The side view is distinguished by sensuously moulded sculptural side panels and distinctive lines. The front structural edge, above the wing, falls in what is known as a "dropping line" in a gentle arc towards the rear. The powerfully shaped shoulder muscles above the rear axle serve to emphasise the car's coupé-like character. A further line sweeps up from just in front of the rear wheel arch, and then gently fades away. All these lines give depth and dynamism to the car's profile. Dynamic side sill panels provide a final finishing touch towards the bottom of the car, enhancing the appearance of elegant light-footedness.

The broad emphasis of the tail end is revealed in an interplay of convex-concave surfaces and edges. The tail lights continue the line of the muscular shoulders back towards the rear, while their horizontal orientation emphasises the car's powerful breadth. The light functions are provided by fibre-optic cables and LED modules. Here, too, the interaction between design and aerodynamics is very clear: the surface finish of the tail lights is not only an interesting design feature, but also improves the airflow around the vehicle thanks to defined airflow break-away edges in the rear section.

The interior: excellent high-quality feel and consistent application of design

The high-quality feel and sportiness of the car are continued in the interior. Both objectives have been achieved with the help of a specific design idiom and through the various combination options possible with the high-quality materials selected. All trim elements have been given an electroplated finish, resulting in real metal surfaces with "cool touch" effect. The work has been executed with considerable care and attention to detail, so that they appear to have been moulded in one piece.

The instrument panel is clearly divided into a wing profile-type upper section and an aesthetically influenced lower section. The resulting effect is that the upper section appears to be supported by a 'muscle'. The manufacturing process used for this 'muscle' allows the creation of varying surface structures with soft tactile qualities. By using special films with three-dimensional structures it is possible to create a range of different surface finishes that permit an attractive play of light. The instrument panel incorporates five round vents, the outer rings of which have a high-quality electroplated finish. The airflow direction is governed by an insert that is reminiscent of an aircraft turbine and reveals a meticulous attention to detail. This too has an electroplated finish in "silver chrome". The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel and a flush-fitting silver frame.

The instrument cluster comprises two large round instruments, each of them with a small round instrument set within it. When at rest, the dial needles stand at 6 o'clock. The pointer inlays are generally white, although with the sportier design and equipment lines such as Urban and AMG Sport they are in red. The dials on the sporty equipment lines and packages are coloured silver with a chequered flag effect. The 3-spoke steering wheel comes with 12 function buttons and an electroplated bezel.

The centre dome and console, as well as the positioning of the various elements such as the head unit, lower control panel, air conditioning operating unit, stowage compartments, rotary push-button and armrest, reflect the findings of the ergonomics experts at Mercedes-Benz.

An extensive range of seat coverings, in terms of material (e.g. leather, fabric, Artico/fabric), colour combination and also geometry, provides scope for a broad range of individualisation options. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are available, for example, as an optional extra with all design and equipment lines. The sporty nature of the seats is emphasised by the opening between the upper edge of the seat backrest and the head restraint. On the back of the front seats this opening is edged with a frame in "silver chrome" and, in conjunction with the Light and Sight package, can also feature ambient lighting.

As well as the basic specification, which can be individualised with a wide range of options, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put together with the requirements of customers in mind: "Urban", "Style" and "AMG Sport".

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2012, a-class, all, attack, compact, for, geneva motor show, mercedes-benz, model, new, set, sporty, the | Leave a comment

First Locally Produced Mercedes-Benz GLK Compact SUV Rolls off the Line in China

By Adji | Published Monday, 5 December 2011

Marking another milestone for Mercedes-Benz in China, in early December the first locally produced Mercedes-Benz GLK compact SUV rolled off the line at the Beijing production plant of Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd. (BBAC). This follows the June 2011 agreement between Daimler and Chinese Joint Venture partner BAIC to further expand their cooperation in China with various projects, including the GLK.

Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, member of the Daimler Board of Management, Manufacturing and Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars & Mercedes-Benz Vans, explains: “The start of our local GLK production in China exemplifies our strategy of global expansion of production close to the market. We are thus supporting our sales success in our regional markets also from the production side, an important contribution to the Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy.”

Ulrich Walker, Chairman & CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia, adds: “The GLK has provedto be enormously popular with customers here in China, so it is an ideal addition to our lineup of locally-produced vehicles.” Emphasizing the importance of the Chinese market, Mr. Walker continued: “Nothing represents our long-term commitment to China more tangibly than the production of vehicles in China itself: The localized production of further Mercedes-Benz models is an important element of our growth strategy for the Chinese market. As early as 2015 we expect to locally produce two-thirds of all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars sold in China. The start of production of the GLK is another important milestone towards this goal.”

“The GLK adds to the locally-produced Long-wheel-base E-Class and new C-Class, and complements other current investments in BBAC, including the new engine plant and R&D Center. We’re also planning local production of additional Mercedes-Benz models,” explains Frank Deiss, President & CEO of Beijing Benz Automotive Co.

The Mercedes-Benz GLK has received a very warm welcome from customers worldwide since its debut in 2008. In particular in China, a growing number of customers have appreciated the brand’s compact SUV, with sales already well in excess of 20,000 units in the current year. China now represents one of the most important markets worldwide for the GLK.

Mercedes-Benz sold 168,940 vehicles overall in China (including Hong Kong) from January through November 2011, an increase of 29.9 percent compared to the same time-frame in 2010. Year-to-date sales in October 2011 already exceeded the total number of cars sold in 2010. The next few years are also certain to see further sales growth: in 2015, the company aims to sell more than 300,000 Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in China.

About Daimler Northeast Asia

Daimler Northeast Asia, located in Beijing, includes Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd, Mercedes-Benz Auto Finance Ltd, Daimler Northeast Asia Parts Trading & Services Co., Ltd., the Joint Ventures Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd. (BBAC), Fujian Daimler Automotive (FJDA), Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co. Ltd., as well as sales organizations in Hong Kong, Korea, and Taiwan.

Local production of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars began in 2006 at the 50/50 joint venture BBAC with the predecessor of the current E-Class. In spring 2008, the C-Class joined local production as the second model. Since May 2010, BBAC producesthe current E-Class as a long-wheelbase version especially customized to meet the requirements of the Chinese market.

In June 2011, Daimler and its Joint Venture partner BAIC signed a strategic framework agreement to further expand their cooperation in China. The agreement includes the following projects: expansion of local passenger car production in 2011 with the GLK, with three models of the new generation of Mercedes-Benz premium compact cars planned for 2013; further expansion of production capacities for the C-Class and the E-Class Long-wheel-base version; production of 4-cylinder gasoline engines in 2013 for use in locally produced Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and vans; and a new R&D center to be established with a focus on vehicle testing and adaptation, as well as R&D activities with suppliers. With these projects, about 2 billion euros will be invested at BBAC.

In November 2011, Daimler and BAIC signed a Letter of Intent which will further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two companies. BAIC and Daimler will jointly analyze the possibilities of technological cooperation as well as cooperation in the field of research and development of new energy vehicles with the aim of further improving the competitiveness of both partners in China.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in china, compact, factory, first, glk-class, line, local, mercedes-benz, production, SUV | Leave a comment

The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class: Heralding a new era in the compact class - The stories

By Adji | Published Monday, 3 October 2011

Posted in b-class, benz, class, compact, mercedes, mercedes-benz, new, stories, the | Leave a comment

The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class: Under the microscope - A successful player in the premium compact vehicle segment

By Adji

Mercedes-Benz is already a successful premium manufacturer of compact vehicles with its A- and B-Class. Over 2.8 million A- and B-Class models have rolled off the production line since the launch of the A-Class in 1997 and the B-Class in 2005.

The launch of the B-Class from Mercedes-Benz in 2005 laid the foundations for a new, future-viable market segment, attracting more than 700,000 delighted customers worldwide. The B-Class continues to enjoy great popularity in the year of the model change. 73,046 vehicles were delivered to customers between January and the end of August this year. This corresponds to a growth rate of 7.6 percent.

In Germany, the largest market for the B-Class, sales rose by 5.6 percent over the same period. The second-largest market for the B-Class is China, where it was launched with great success in 2009. This year alone has seen sales rise since January in the order of 46.8 percent, to 9738 units.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Posted in 2012, b-class, benz, car, class, compact, mercedes, mercedes-benz, new, premium, successful, the | Leave a comment

The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class: The model range - Compact class for experts

By Adji

From radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST to the Audio 20 CD multimedia unit with colour screen, Bluetooth connectivity and USB port, the B-Class offers a host of extra safety and comfort features as standard, even in its basic version.

Four equipment packages (Chrome, Sports, Exclusive and Night package) enable individualisation of the vehicle's exterior and interior. Beyond this, the customer can choose from a range of optional extras, some of which have been the reserve of higher vehicle classes to date. These include the dashboard in ARTICO man-made leather, front seats with memory function and the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant safety system (see "Passive safety" section), for example.

Something for everyone: four equipment packages

A B-Class upgraded with the Chrome package is identifiable from the outside by virtue of three slats in brilliant silver on the radiator grille and chrome applications in the front and rear bumpers. Additional exterior features are daytime driving lights with chrome ring, the beltline trim strip in chrome, the electroplated load sill protector and the oval stainless steel tailpipe trim. Inside, the Chrome package includes the Matrix-look trim, air outlet vents with nozzle ring and cross in silver chrome, chrome rings for the rotary light switch, the central operating unit and the controller on the centre console, and a shift/selector lever with applications in silver shadow. The armrests in the doors and the centre armrest feature contrasting stitching.

The Sports package offers significantly more sportiness. Here the radiator grille features double slats in brilliant silver with chrome applications, while the front bumper incorporates a diamond-pattern air intake grille with chrome applications. Chrome also features on the rear bumper (chrome applications on the outsides), the daytime driving light (chrome ring) and the beltline trim strip. 17-inch light-alloy wheels in 5-spoke design come as standard. The front brake discs are perforated and the front callipers feature "Mercedes-Benz" lettering. The sports suspension with selective damping system and the Direct-Steer system with variable power assistance and steering ratio provide for more dynamic handling, but can be deactivated as appropriate.

Inside, the Sports package includes seats in ARTICO man-made leather / Den Helder fabric with contrasting stitching, honeycomb-pattern trim, air outlet vents with ring and cross in silver chrome, high-gloss black rotary light switch with ring in silver chrome, 3-spoke perforated leather multifunction sports steering wheel with 12 function buttons, leather shift/selector lever with applications in chrome, front and rear door sill panels in extruded stainless steel and sports pedals in stainless steel look with rubber studs.

In contrast to the Sports package, the Night package offers the following special exterior features:

- radiator grille with double slats in high-gloss black with chrome applications
- bumpers without chrome applications
- roof trim strip in high-gloss black
- beltline trim strip in high-gloss black
- heat-insulating dark-tinted glass as of B-pillar
- 18-inch light-alloy wheels in 5-twin-spoke design, painted black with high-sheen finish, with 225/40 R 18 tyres

The Exclusive package which is available in addition to the Chrome, Sports or Night package does full justice to its name, featuring a highly stylish interpretation of the compact class with contrasting stitching, dashboard and door centre panels in ARTICO man-made leather and brown silk matt burr walnut trim. The scope of equipment includes a 3-spoke leather steering wheel with 12 function buttons, comfort locking system (infrared), electric 4-way lumbar support on the front seats and heated seats.

Plenty of lateral support and a pleasant seat climate: the seats

The front seats of the B-Class feature comfortable upholstery and ergonomic contours. Attractive seat covers exude high-class appeal. Characteristic features of the standard front seats are high seat comfort with excellent lateral support due to high backrests and pronounced side bolsters, a pleasant seat climate resulting from high air permeability and high moisture absorbency, and a reduced risk of whiplash injury thanks to newly developed head restraints. The Seat Comfort package allows 6-way adjustment of the driver's and front passenger's seat.

The rear seats make a major contribution to the high variability of the B-Class. The rear seat modules offering separate fore/aft adjustment are a special highlight in conjunction with the optional EASY-VARIO-PLUS system (see Interior section).

The standard rear seat bench offers the following features:

- generous legroom for a high standard of comfort in all seats
- rear seat backrests can be folded down with a 1/3 to 2/3 split, forming an almost flat load compartment floor in lowered position
- middle head restraint is designed for minimal interference with visibility to the rear
- ISOFIX child seat anchorage points with TopTether on the outer rear seats

Other optional extras

The B-Class is optionally available with bi-xenon lights instead of halogen lights. The latter are furthermore optionally combinable with the Intelligent Light System (ILS). ILS, which is familiar from other Mercedes model lines, comprises bi-xenon headlamps with variable light distribution and dynamic headlamp range for country roads, motorways and dense fog, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, active light function, LED daytime driving lights and headlamp cleaning system.

A swing-away trailer coupling is available for the B-Class for the first time. The control unit for the swivel system is readily accessible on the left of the luggage compartment. After mechanically releasing the trailer coupling on the control unit, ball neck and socket can be swivelled into towing or rest position. In rest position, they are both accommodated out of sight behind the bumper.

The range of optional extras further includes front seats with memory function, automatically dimming rear-view and exterior mirrors, and electrically operated panoramic glass sunroof with tilting/sliding function and a stowage facility package. The latter comprises a spectacles compartment in the overhead control panel, a stowage box under the front seats, parcel nets on driver and front passenger seat backrest, a collapsible box in the luggage compartment floor and folding tables on the front seat backrests.

A reversing camera is optionally available. This is activated automatically when reverse gear is engaged. It supports the driver during lengthways and crossways parking manoeuvres by means of static and dynamic guide lines indicating the vehicle's line of travel and clearances. Active Parking Assist offers even greater comfort here (see section "Driving assistance systems").