2016 Mercedes-Benz B-class

Mercedes-Benz B-class

Mercedes-Benz’s B-Class has always been a bit of an odd duck in South Africa. It’s bigger and more versatile than an A-Class, but let’s be honest, most local buyers would rather just step up into an SUV, even if what they actually want is a practical hatch. On paper at least, it should have been a hit: Golf-rivalling space, premium badge, and genuine comfort for four grown-ups. Yet, with only 11 used units listed countrywide (ranging from R79,500 up to a punchy R489,900), it’s clear the B-Class never found a loyal following here. That price span is wild, and it’s a reminder that depreciation hasn’t been kind to every variant — especially when you compare older B 200 Turbos to newer diesel autos. If you’re after value, the B 200 Turbo petrols kick off at R79,500, but the B 200 CDI diesels with auto boxes, clustered between R109,995 and R207,500, are the smart pick if you pack smart and do long distances — that diesel/auto combo just works here, especially with our stop-start traffic and highway hauls to Durban or Joburg. Average mileage is 139,512 km, so you’ll want to check those service records and walk away from anything sketchy. No new B-Classes are available — you’re shopping used, full stop. What sets it apart from a Golf or 1 Series is the real rear headroom and that slightly elevated driving position, without the crossover tax. For families or anyone who actually uses their back seats, that’s the point.