All change at Mercedes-Benz with the B-Class

And the B-Class has been transformed, too, from a sort of expanded version of the A-Class into a sleek and comfortable crossover which bristles with new technology and driver appeal.

It’s true to say that the original B-Class never quite lived up to the Mercedes standards, but the new vehicle is in a different class altogether.

Neat, well-equipped and importantly for Mercedes-Benz customers it is a car which loves to be driven.

It’s not without faults. I, for one, never got to grips with the stalk-mounted gearchange which was in a place where you would expect the windscreen wiper controls to be placed.

But the car impressed in every other respect. It looks like a solid, bulky car but it drives like a lithe saloon and when you put your foot down the automatic gearbox and power of the engine really excites.

With the rise in popularity of compact people carriers – just look at Ford C-Max, Renault Scenic, Vauxhall Zafira and others – Mercedes-Benz simply had to have a stake in that sector.

Of course, comparing Fords and Renaults to a Mercedes is akin to difficult. And while those mass-market manufacturers have upped their game, so Mercedes have raised their standards, too.

Nevertheless, if you’re in the market for what’s often promoted as an activity or compact lifestyle people carrier but find conventional estate cars and SUVs too limited or too big respectively, this second generation B-Class is worth a look.

It boasts a long, low-slung profile that does much to convince you that its five-seater layout will be just fine. And Mercedes is keen to stress that its premium cabin should appeal to both downsizers from luxury cars and those seeking to move up into something more attractive. Certainly, this is true from the array of trim options available, be it wood- or metal-effect materials for the doors and fascia. Leather is also an option, while the car’s (optional) panoramic glass roof adds a welcome touch of glamour to what could end up being ‘mum’s taxi’ for the school run.

With the option to slide the rear seats fore and aft to vary the amount of space available to rear seat occupants plus the ability to fold them almost flat, family-friendly versatility is available with little effort. Oddment storage space in the cabin is also good, while the infotainment system can be upgraded to include a well thought out and centrally mounted iPad-esque glossy screen.

Alas Mercedes’ offering isn’t a touchscreen, but it’s big enough to deliver a rewarding user experience.

Driven by the car’s infotainment system, everything from the radio and MP3 integration and navigation to mobile internet access is available for an extra outlay.

It’s clear from sitting in the new B-Class that Mercedes has learnt a lot from its past efforts. The same is true out on the road, as the car rides and drives like a completely different machine. More composed on poorly surfaced and a willing performer when the road turns twisty, it’s much easier now to feel more confident when behind the wheel.

Both manual and dual-clutch auto gearboxes are offered, with the former the default option along with Mercedes’ familiar foot-operated parking brake. As you would expect, the latter is the more civilised approach to motoring and better suits the car’s relaxed personality. Factor in the redesigned column stalks, something Mercedes is rolling out across its range, and there’s a welcome, mature feel to the way the B-Class drives.

As with the rest of the industry, Mercedes has managed to deliver an engine line-up that balances economy gains with improved performance levels. Collectively a case in point are Mercedes’ new 1.6-litre petrol motors, which boast direct injection and low CO2 ratings. The same is true of the diesel engines, and there’s a predictable emphasis on low CO2 and fuel consumption.

Keen drivers haven’t been forgotten either, as higher output engines promise to deliver a spirited performance if you’re willing to offset higher consumption for speed.

That said, all engines come with a fuel-saving stop-start function as standard regardless of the transmission selected, ensuring that even marginal gains are attainable regardless of your driving style.

Now better able to cope with the rough and smooth of today’s patchy road networks and, crucially, offer a versatile and high quality interior, it only takes a few minutes to appreciate the effort made by Mercedes to make this B-Class a more rounded and appealing compact people mover.

Mercedes-Benz B220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport PRICE: £27,880 ENGINE: A 2,143cc, four cylinder unit generating 168bhp via seven-speed automatic transmission PERFORMANCE: Top speed 137mph and 0 to 60mph in 8.3 seconds COSTS: town 50.4mpg; country 70.6mpg; combined 61.4mpg INSURANCE: Group 25 EMISSIONS: 120g/km WARRANTY: Three years’ unlimited mileage warranty and up to 30 years or corrosion cover inside and out