This B is better

THAT the Mercedes-Benz B-Class has been such a popular model here is largely understandable. This is, after all, a mini-MPV with a slightly elevated driving position and a roomy interior which seats five adults comfortably.

The fact that it has the coveted three-pointed star on the front grille and is available in COE Category A are merely icing on the cake. But those seem to be the B-Class' only strong points as some were not enamoured of its performance and handling.

Fortunately, a timely facelift has rectified those two points. The B-Class is available as the B180 and B200. Both use the same 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine to drive the front wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission but with different levels of tune.