The 2017 Mercedes-Benz B Class Hatchback, specifically the B250e electric model, offers a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury and electric vehicle technology in a practical hatchback form. This model is designed for drivers seeking a premium, feature-rich electric car experience. Let’s delve into what makes this vehicle stand out, from its standard equipment to available options and performance metrics.
The standard features of the 2017 B Class Hatchback are quite comprehensive, emphasizing both comfort and convenience. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and is equipped with LED daytime running lights for enhanced visibility. A heated windshield and automatic wipers address various weather conditions, ensuring clear vision. Inside, air-conditioning, keyless entry, and premium vinyl upholstery provide a comfortable and accessible experience. The front seats are 10-way power-adjustable with 4-way power lumbar support and memory settings for up to three drivers, catering to personalized comfort. Practicality is further enhanced by 60/40-split folding rear seats, cruise control for relaxed highway driving, and forward collision mitigation for added safety. Connectivity and entertainment are covered by Bluetooth phone and audio, a 7-inch display screen managed by Mercedes’ COMAND interface, Mbrace emergency communications, and an audio system with a USB port and HD radio. Unique to the electric model is a deep-charging mode designed to maximize driving range between charges.
For those looking to personalize their 2017 Mercedes-Benz B Class Hatchback, a variety of optional packages are available. The Electric Blue Interior package offers a distinctive aesthetic with top-stitched blue and gray vinyl upholstery and matching trim on the dash and doors. Stepping up in luxury, the Interior package includes leather upholstery, heated front seats for cold climates, multi-color ambient lighting to set the mood, and top-stitched vinyl trim on the dash and doors. For enhanced technology and convenience, the Premium 1 package adds radar-based regenerative braking, which intelligently adjusts braking based on traffic, along with keyless entry and ignition, and satellite radio for entertainment diversity. The Premium 2 package further elevates the technology with high-intensity bi-xenon headlights for superior night vision, auto-dimming mirrors, a universal garage door opener, an upgraded 8-inch video screen display, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system for audiophiles. The most comprehensive, the Premium 3 package, includes a rearview camera for easier parking, the COMAND navigation system with voice controls for seamless guidance, an in-dash CD/DVD player, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration for modern connectivity, and a 5-year subscription to satellite traffic and weather services.
Beyond packages, stand-alone options offer further customization. A Smartphone Integration System package can be added separately for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality. Individual options also include heated front seats, genuine wood trim for a classic touch, multi-color ambient lighting, a rearview camera, a blind-spot monitoring system for enhanced safety, and automated parallel parking assist for urban driving ease. Mercedes-Benz also provides Mbrace system enhancements as stand-alone options: Connect for remote vehicle access and diagnostics, Concierge for navigation and information services, and Entertain for streaming media.
Powering the 2017 Mercedes-Benz B250e is a front-mounted 132-kilowatt electric motor, drawing energy from a lithium-ion battery pack positioned under the floor. This setup delivers 177 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. Performance testing by Edmunds revealed an impressive 0-60 mph sprint in just 6.7 seconds, significantly quicker than the average electric vehicle and even faster than Mercedes-Benz’s official claim. This places its acceleration performance close to that of the BMW i3 and highlights its responsive electric powertrain.
The EPA estimates the 2017 B250e’s range at 84 miles, with an efficiency rating of 85 mpge in the city and 82 mpge on the highway. A range-extending feature can add approximately 15 miles, though Mercedes-Benz advises using it sparingly to maintain battery health. Charging times vary considerably: a standard 110-volt outlet can take up to 30 hours, while a 240-volt charging station reduces this to about 3.5 hours. The EPA rates the B250e’s energy consumption at 40 kWh per 100 miles, which is higher compared to the BMW i3’s 27 kWh per 100 miles, suggesting a slightly lower energy efficiency for the Mercedes-Benz in terms of distance covered per unit of electricity.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz B Class Hatchback (B250e) is a well-equipped electric vehicle that combines Mercedes-Benz’s renowned luxury and technology with the practicality of a hatchback. While offering brisk acceleration and a range of premium features and options, potential buyers should consider its range and energy efficiency relative to other electric vehicles in the market.
