Mercedes-Benz B-Class I (W245) photos

The first-generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class, designated internal chassis code W245, premiered in March 2005 at the Geneva Motor Show as a versatile Compact Sports Tourer. Built upon an elongated version of the Sandwich double-floor floorpan shared with the A-Class, the W245 measured 4,270 mm in overall length with a generous 2,778 mm wheelbase. This structural design yielded interior passenger legroom comparable to larger executive luxury sedans while maintaining a compact urban footprint. The tall monovolume body profile offered exceptional outward visibility, flexible cargo arrangements through the EASY-VARIO seating system, and a maximum luggage capacity expanding from 544 up to 2,245 liters.

Engine choices featured naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline powerplants ranging from 1.5 to 2.0 liters (B 150, B 170, B 200), topped by a 193-horsepower performance variant in the turbocharged B 200 Turbo. Diesel options centered around 2.0-liter OM640 common-rail turbo-diesel units (B 180 CDI and B 200 CDI), alongside a dual-fuel compressed natural gas version (B 170 NGT / B 200 NGT). Power was routed to the front wheels via five-speed or six-speed manual gearboxes or an optional Autotronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). A 2008 mid-cycle facelift updated exterior front styling, enhanced cabin upholstery, and introduced ECO start/stop engine technology.