Mercedes-Benz B-Class Hatchback (2005-2011) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 34 - 54 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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Although there is a reasonable amount of equipment for the money, the B-Class is priced significantly higher than other cars that do a similar job. It’s also not available with seven-seats, limiting it’s appeal for larger families. Mercedes-Benz servicing does not come cheaply either, but economy, especially on the diesel models, is good.

The B-Class performs fairly well on the eco front – and the introduction of BlueEFFICIENCY has improved things further. It’s not as green as a BMW, but the majority of engines provide decent economy. However, the best model is actually the B180 CDI which emits 137g/km of CO2 and averages 54mpg.

Mercedes-Benz has suffered from some electrical faults with a few recent models, such as the 2002 E-Class and CLK. This resulted in a commitment to tackle reliability and the B-class is much better. As well as an unlimited mileage warranty, it also comes with a 30-year breakdown and corrosion guarantee – as long as the car has been maintained by a Mercedes-Benz-authorised repairer.