“The innovative B-Class product concept impresses our customers with its fascinating design and unique blend of spaciousness and high degree of utility. The strong demand for the Sports Tourer is yet another confirmation of our role as the market leader in the premium compact car segment,” said Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes Car Group, responsible for Sales and Marketing.

The most important market for the B-Class is Germany, which accounts for about one third of the model’s sales worldwide, followed by Italy, France, Japan and Spain. The vehicle is produced in three-shift operations at the Rastatt plant. The majority of B-Class customers chose one of the diesel models: one third has purchased the B 180 CDI, and 20 percent have selected the B 200 CDI.

Australian sales of the popular compact sports tourer in 2007 have grown an impressive 35 percent over the same January – April period in 2006, with the B200 a favourite.

In March of this year, the Öko-Trend environmental institute awarded its Car Environmental Certificate to the B-Class. The Sports Tourer was recognised by the institute in particular for its impressive versatility, spaciousness as well as convincing environmental credentials. The independent institute determined that in addition to its exemplary fuel efficiency and low noise and emissions, the B-Class also stands out with its environmentally friendly production processes, materials and logistics. The Öko-Trend institute had especially high praise for the B 200 CDI’s engine, with an average fuel consumption of less than six litres per 100 kilometres.