In 2014 Mercedes gave the B-class a little nip and tuck and it has made all the difference to its attractiveness. In fairness, the updates manifest themselves most obviously in the AMG Line car, which was a new addition to the range. It looks good too thanks to the AMG additions and a lower ride height, plus it can be had with the Night package for £445 with dark highlights and unique 18-inch wheels. Though the aesthetic improvements are probably due to it being the least B-class-like model in the line-up...
The large grille, fancy headlights and designer flourishes in the B-class's flanks can't really disguise what it is underneath. And in a sombre colour it looks quite dull. At least it feels well-made and is of high quality. The interior is more successful in design terms, especially as you spend more money on enhancing it - the Exclusive package, for example, comes with lush leather upholstery in three colours including classy hazelnut brown and cranberry red.
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Visual changes to the electric model, the B250e, are very subtle indeed. For some, that will be ideal - when the alternative is the space-age styling of a car like the BMW i3, subtlety can be an appealing characteristic. It's no more attractive than a standard B-class but some details do help it stand out visually, from a set of aerodynamic alloy wheels to the obligatory electric-car-blue detailing on the grille bars and adorning the door mirrors.
