The Mercedes-Benz B 170, part of the W245 series produced between April 2005 and April 2008, represented an entry point into the compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment for the German automaker. Positioned as a practical and comfortable option, the B 170 utilized a 1.7-liter gasoline engine paired with Mercedes’ Autotronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This configuration aimed to provide fuel efficiency and ease of driving, appealing to buyers prioritizing convenience over outright performance. The W245 B-Class, overall, was Mercedes’ first foray into the front-wheel-drive compact segment, designed to compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran and Renault Scenic, primarily in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B-class |
| Generation | B-class (W245) |
| Type (Engine) | B 170 (116 Hp) Autotronic |
| Start of production | April, 2005 |
| End of production | April, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9-9.2 l/100 km (26.1 – 25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6-6.2 l/100 km (39.2 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1-7.3 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 171-175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3500-4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 266.940 |
| Engine displacement | 1699 cm3 (103.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1285 kg (2832.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 544 l (19.21 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2245 l (79.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4270 mm (168.11 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2778 mm (109.37 in.) |
| Front track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission Autotronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 276×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 258×8 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The B 170 was powered by the M 266.940 engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a member of Mercedes-Benz’s M 266 family, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel economy. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produced 116 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque between 3500 and 4000 rpm. Crucially, the B 170 exclusively utilized Mercedes’ Autotronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This transmission, while offering smooth acceleration, was sometimes criticized for its ‘rubber band’ feel and perceived lack of responsiveness compared to traditional automatic gearboxes. The Autotronic aimed to optimize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine within its most efficient operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The B 170’s driving experience was geared towards comfort and ease of use rather than sporty performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12 seconds, making it noticeably slower than higher-powered B-Class variants like the B 200. The CVT contributed to a smooth, linear acceleration curve, but lacked the distinct gear changes of a conventional automatic. In real-world driving, the B 170 felt adequate for city commuting and highway cruising, but struggled with quick overtaking maneuvers or when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other B-Class models, the Autotronic prioritized convenience over driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B 170 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard design was functional and straightforward, reflecting the B-Class’s focus on practicality. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. The B 170 represented the base trim level, offering a more affordable entry point into the B-Class range.
Chassis & Braking
The W245 B-Class featured a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. The B 170, being the entry-level model, typically had smaller diameter wheels and tires (195/65 R15) compared to higher-spec variants. Braking consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The B 170 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its lack of performance and the somewhat uninspiring driving experience offered by the Autotronic transmission. Compared to the B 200, which featured a more powerful 2.0-liter engine, the B 170 offered significantly less acceleration and overall driving enjoyment. However, the B 170’s lower price point and better fuel economy made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The B 170 generally offered comparable fuel economy to its competitors in the compact MPV segment, but its CO2 emissions were slightly higher than some rivals.
Legacy
The B 170, while not the most exciting variant of the W245 B-Class, proved to be a reliable and practical vehicle. The M 266 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. The Autotronic transmission, however, can be prone to issues if not serviced regularly. In the used car market, the B 170 represents an affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it a popular choice for first-time Mercedes buyers or those seeking a practical and economical family vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the Autotronic transmission and ensure it has been regularly serviced.
