MERCEDES B CLASS GETS SPORTIER LOOK, NEW TECHNOLOGY MERCEDES-BENZ says its new B class will have more new technology than it has ever offered before when launching a new-generation car. The technology includes an all-new 1.6-liter fourcylinder, turbocharged gasoline direct-injection engine designed for both transverse and longitudinal installation and a four-cylinder downsized 1.8-liter diesel, the first compression-ignition engine mounted transversely in a Mercedes car. The engines have a fuel-saving stop-start system and can be paired with a new dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The B class will also offer a radar-based collision warning system with braking assistance that Mercedes says is a first in its segment and lowers the risk of rear-end accidents. The new B class is designed so that it can be adapted for alternative drivetrains because it has space for a battery pack or a hydrogen tank under the rear seats. The car is slightly longer than the current model and slightly lower, giving it a more dynamic appearance, but Mercedes says its high front-seating position is kept because customers like it. IAA 2011 POCKET GUIDE 51