Mercedes-Benz has a strong reputation for safety, with many of its models receiving the maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating. As you’d expect, the B-Class is no exception and achieved the maximum five-star rating. It comes with an extensive range of safety systems and airbags to help protect occupants. The B-Class also get Collision Prevention Assist as standard.

This radar-based system reduces the severity or likelihood of a rear-end collision. A range of optional safety equipment is available, including lane keeping assist, blind spot warning and adaptive cruise control. At launch the 2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class was claimed by the manufacturer to be the safest car in its class.

One of the B-Class’ strong points is its practicality, which makes it ideal for small families or those who travel with a lot of luggage. Front passengers get large door pockets that can hold bottles, two cupholders, a selection of small storage areas and a decently sized glovebox. A USB connection is present in the centre armrest compartment. One 12-volt socket is standard in the front for charging.

Boot space is a useful 488 litres – that’s 172 litres more than a Ford Focus. The optional Easy Vario Plus system adds a rear folding armrest with integrated cup holders, adjustable rear seats and a front passenger seat whose backrest can be folded forwards, allowing for easy transportation of larger items. It also adds a neat, magnetically latched, through-loading slot for long objects.

With the rear seats adjusted fully forwards, the Easy Vario Plus system increases boot space to 666 litres. In either model, dropping the rear seats boosts storage space to an impressive 1,547 litres.