The Mercedes-Benz B 170, part of the W245 facelift series produced from April 2008 to April 2009, represented an entry-level offering within the second-generation B-Class range. Positioned as a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the B 170 aimed to provide practical transportation with a focus on fuel efficiency and affordability. It was primarily marketed in Europe, offering a more accessible price point compared to the higher-specification B 200 models. This variant utilized a 1.7-liter gasoline engine paired with Mercedes-Benz’s Autotronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), a combination designed for smooth, comfortable driving rather than outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B-Class |
| Generation | B-Class (W245 facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | B 170 (116 Hp) Autotronic |
| Start of production | April, 2008 |
| End of production | April, 2009 |
| 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 | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 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 | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 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 | 4273 mm (168.23 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm (80.12 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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. The Autotronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was specifically chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Autotronic used a belt and pulley system to provide a virtually infinite number of ratios, optimizing engine speed for fuel economy or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The B 170’s driving experience was characterized by its comfort and ease of use. The Autotronic transmission contributed to smooth acceleration and a lack of noticeable gear changes. However, the 1.7-liter engine and CVT combination didn’t offer particularly brisk performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12 seconds, making it slower than the more powerful B 200 variants. The CVT’s programming often prioritized fuel efficiency over responsiveness, resulting in a somewhat “rubber band” feel during acceleration, where engine speed would rise before the car actually gained speed. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other B-Class models, the B 170 Autotronic offered a more relaxed driving experience, but at the expense of driver engagement and outright speed.
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, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat understated, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags were standard. The B 170 was generally positioned as the entry-level trim, meaning it lacked some of the luxury features found in the higher-spec B 200 models, such as leather upholstery or more advanced infotainment systems.
Chassis & Braking
The W245 B-Class featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. The B 170, being the lighter variant, generally had a slightly softer suspension setup compared to the more powerful models. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system provided enhanced braking control, particularly in slippery conditions. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering a light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The B 170 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical MPV. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the B 200, the B 170 offered significantly lower running costs but lacked the punch needed for more spirited driving. The B 170’s main competitors included other compact MPVs such as the Renault Scenic and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira. In terms of fuel economy, the B 170 was competitive with its rivals, but its performance lagged behind some of the more powerful options.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz B 170 (W245 facelift) remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The M 266.940 engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The Autotronic transmission, while smooth, can be prone to issues if not properly serviced. Specifically, fluid changes are critical to prevent premature wear. Overall, the B 170 represents a sensible and economical choice for those seeking a practical and comfortable MPV, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance requirements of the Autotronic transmission.
