Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new B-Class model and loaded the existing models with extra features as part of a wave of product enhancements flowing from the reduction in import duty from 1 January.
The company says feedback from customers on the reduced import duty pointed to a preference for extra features rather than price reductions or discounts which could impact resale values.
Coinciding with the end of the A-Class model, 'Benz has introduced a new entry model B-Class - the B 180, powered by a 1.7-litre four-cylinder engine and retailing for $36,990 ($910 less than the outgoing A 180 five-door).
Standard equipment on the B 180 includes a five-speed manual transmission, 17-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, AUDIO 20 sound system with six-disc in-dash CD player and UCI interface for iPODs etc plus cruise control with a SPEEDTRONIC speed limiter.
The B 200 and B 180 CDI have both received more than $9,000 worth of extra kit including leather upholstery, AMG 17-inch alloy wheels, a Sports Package, heated front seats and a Metro Package (CVT transmission and Active Parking Assist-Parking Guidance). Pricing for the B 200 is down by $210 to $45,990 while the B 180 CDI goes up by only $1,790 to $47,990.
For the new B 200 you add all of those extras plus metallic paint, AMG 18-inch alloys and the COMAND APS navigation and entertainment system (around $16,000 worth of goodies) but the price rises by only $190 to $52,990.
Mercedes says the equipment injected into the B-Class lineup reflects the most popular options chosen by customers.
