Mercedes-Benz B-class review - Practical people-mover not Mercedes' best effort - Mercedes-Benz B-class design

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.

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.