Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (240 km/h)
Fuel, maker's test (6.1 L/100 km)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on the specific powertrain and model year.
5 problems reported (1 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentB-Class Electric Drive (B250e) motor failure
Electric motor prone to internal coolant leaks, leading to extremely expensive replacement.
- IsolatedB-Class Electric Drive (B250e) battery failure
Battery pack replacement costs are "thousands and thousands of dollars.".
- IsolatedPoor reliability from specific poorly maintained examples
Instances of cars with "dodgy repairs" (e.g., badly repaired oil sump) leading to significant issues.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedMissing basic features (Electric Drive variant)
Lack of interior hatch release, lack of backup camera (on a 2016 model).
- IsolatedLow ground clearance
Scraping the underside on speed bumps is reported as frequent.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or powertrain. For the conventional models, the B200 (petrol) and B200 CDI (diesel) are mentioned positively. The B250 (petrol) is noted as the most powerful and still fuel-efficient. There is a strong owner advisory to avoid the B-Class Electric Drive (B250e) due to high out-of-warranty repair costs and poor range. For the first generation (pre-2012), an owner notes the second generation (W246) is "much better."
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW X1, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, VW Golf and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on the specific powertrain and model year. The gasoline and diesel variants of the W246 generation are generally praised by owners for their practicality, spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. They are frequently described as well-built, comfortable, and economical daily drivers, often purchased by sensible, older owners. However, a significant and distinct negative consensus exists for the B-Class Electric Drive (B250e) variant, which is criticized for its very short range (73-96 miles/117-154 km), slow charging, and two extremely costly potential failure points: the electric motor (prone to internal coolant leaks) and the battery pack. For the conventional models, isolated but serious criticisms involve poor reliability from specific examples with prior poor repair history, and concerns about missing basic luxury features compared to more expensive Mercedes models.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a practical, premium compact MPV/hatchback. It is seen as more spacious and practical than mainstream compact hatchbacks like the Golf, Civic, or Corolla, and more comfortable and refined than compact SUVs like the Toyota C-HR. Within the Mercedes lineup, it is understood to be an entry-level model based on shared front-wheel-drive architecture with the A-Class, CLA, and GLA, and therefore lacks the luxury features, interior materials, and rear-wheel-drive dynamics of the C-Class and above. It is frequently compared to the BMW X1 as a practical alternative, with some owners noting the B-Class offers better fuel economy and a more comfortable ride.
Recommended configurations
For conventional models, an automatic transmission is preferred by some owners for daily comfort. Diesel engines (B200 CDI) are recommended for high fuel efficiency on long commutes. A strong emphasis is placed on purchasing a vehicle with a full and consistent service history, preferably from a sensible previous owner. A pre-purchase inspection is universally recommended to uncover any hidden issues or prior poor repairs.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers prioritizing interior space, comfort, and fuel economy in a premium-badged package. Ideal for small families requiring boot space (approx. 486 liters noted) and a comfortable daily driver. Recommended for those who can find a well-maintained example with a verifiable history. NOT recommended for the B-Class Electric Drive due to severe range limitations and catastrophic repair cost risks outside warranty. NOT recommended for buyers seeking a true luxury experience or engaging driving dynamics. Essential to get a pre-purchase inspection from a specialist mechanic. Consider extended warranty coverage for peace of mind.
Remarks
The owner feedback clearly delineates between the conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) W246 B-Class and the Electric Drive variant. The ICE models enjoy a reputation for solid reliability and practicality, with one owner citing a reliability survey score of 96%. In stark contrast, the Electric Drive variant is portrayed as a high-risk ownership proposition once its extended battery/powertrain warranty has expired, primarily due to the cost of its Tesla-supplied drivetrain components. The data suggests the vehicle's reputation is highly sensitive to maintenance history; a single poorly maintained example can lead to a negative assessment, while well-maintained examples are reported to be trouble-free. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions focused on the B-Class.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2016Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 20 | 0 | engine |
| 2016 | 9 | 0 | engine |
| 2015 | 28 | 0 | power train |
| 2014 | 21 | 0 | power train |
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: W247
B 220d
2.0L 4-cylinder diesel · 190 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2018–2022