Vehicle overview
Like Mercedes’ A-Class models, the B 200 is a front-wheel drive car. And it’s damn good too. The electromechanical power steering is crisp and direct, the handling of the B 200 is a delight. Throw the light weight into corners and it’s up to the job, easily sending twists, ramps and turns without squeal.
Driving
Once underway, the B 200’s family DNA finally asserts itself. Though the petite four-door isn’t even on speaking terms with the word “fast,” it goes about its business in the traditional stately Mercedes fashion. Bizarrely enough, most of the credit’s due to the mini-Merc’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT or “rubber band job”). Hooked-up to a 143hp in-line four (a 193hp turbo is… more money), the tag team motivate the 2900-lbs. car with genuine grace.
