“I leased the B Class Electric because it gets me off gas and starts to move us forward to a gas free world. I particularly liked the B Class because it was built on an existing platform that was well designed and I like the MBZ brand as we currently own 3 MBZ. This car is not a practical purchase because of its limited range but I hope the future brings 2-300 mile range. I LOVE driving electric!”
Mercedes-Benz B-Class: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a compact luxury electric hatchback known for its upright seating, practical cargo space, and quiet city-friendly driving. In the U.S., it was sold only as a five-seat EV from 2014 through 2017.
The B-Class brought electric driving into a practical, familiar Mercedes package rather than using a futuristic shape. Throughout its short U.S. run, it stayed focused on daily usability, with an upright cabin, five-door layout, and front-wheel drive. It was designed more as a premium commuter than a long-range electric car.
Strengths
- Its upright shape gives passengers a more natural seating position than many low-slung compact cars.
- The hatchback layout is genuinely useful, with 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the 2017 model.
- Electric power makes it quiet and well suited to stop-and-go commuting.
- Its cabin delivers a familiar Mercedes feel without sacrificing the practicality of a small five-door car.
- The 2017 B 250e produces 177 horsepower, which is plenty for everyday urban and suburban driving.
Who it's for
It best fits a city or suburban driver who wants a small, easy-to-place EV with an upscale cabin and useful everyday space. Its modest driving range makes the most sense for predictable commutes and regular access to charging rather than frequent long-distance travel.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class lineup
The U.S. lineup was intentionally simple, with one electric model rather than a ladder of trims. Early cars were called B-Class Electric Drive, while the same basic model became the B 250e for 2016 and 2017. The name changed, but the identity did not: each was a front-wheel-drive electric hatchback aimed at practical daily use. Shopping among them is mainly about model year and equipment updates rather than choosing between distinct trim personalities.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class generations
From 2014 to 2017, the B-Class spans 1 generation. The current 2nd Generation — W242/W246 arrived for 2014.
2nd Generation — W242/W246 (2014–2017)
In the U.S., this generation was a compact five-door electric hatchback with front-wheel drive and a single-speed drive unit. It arrived as the B-Class Electric Drive, was renamed B 250e for 2016, and ended its U.S. run after 2017.
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2017
The B 250e carried over as a single-trim electric hatchback for its final U.S. model year.
2016Trim changes
The B-Class Electric Drive continued under the B 250e name, with no major mechanical or equipment overhaul.
2015
Keyless entry with push-button start, the battery-reserve setting, and a heated windshield became standard.
2014New generation
The B-Class Electric Drive launched as an all-new U.S. model and Mercedes-Benz’s first U.S.-market EV.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class electric or a hybrid?
It is fully electric in its U.S. form. The 2014–2017 B-Class used a battery-powered motor with no gasoline engine; it was sold first as the Electric Drive and later as the B 250e.
What kind of vehicle is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class?
It is a compact electric hatchback with four passenger doors, a rear hatch, and seating for five. Its upright shape provides a roomier, more practical cabin than its small exterior might suggest.
What is the electric B-Class known for?
It is known for quiet electric driving, an upscale Mercedes cabin, upright seating, and useful cargo room. Its focus is comfortable daily transportation rather than unusually long driving range.
Who is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class a good fit for?
It suits commuters who want a compact EV with easy city manners, room for five, and a more traditional premium-car interior. It makes less sense for drivers who regularly take long trips between charges.
Which generation was the U.S. electric B-Class?
The U.S. electric model belonged to the second-generation B-Class. Its short American run lasted from 2014 through 2017, with 2017 serving as the final U.S. model year.
Does the Mercedes-Benz B-Class have all-wheel drive?
No. The U.S. electric B-Class used front-wheel drive throughout its run, with one electric motor and a one-speed direct-drive unit.
Is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class suitable for road trips?
It is better suited to commuting and local driving. Its EPA-rated range was 87 miles, so longer journeys require frequent charging and more planning than they would in a newer long-range EV.
How practical is the B-Class for carrying cargo?
It is quite practical for a compact EV. The hatchback body and split-folding rear seat provide flexible storage, with up to 51.4 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.
4.1
Mercedes-Benz B-Class
(64 reviews)
“Wish the B class can travel more within one charge, ie. 100 + miles instead of 70 miles”
“It's a great car and a great feeling knowing I am do a small part in helping the environment. It's fun to drive and has all the luxury bells and whistles”
“Smooth and comfortable ride. Surprisingly good acceleration. Access to car pool lane is great for commuting. Love not going to gas station.”
“I wanted an electric car for the benefits to the environment and the benefits to my commute (can use HOV lanes with electric car.) I immediately loved the feel of driving the b-class, as well as its looks. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for an electric car, and even those who aren't.”
“I was looking for a FWD electric car and the B-class is a great example. Good range. Very quiet and comfortable. Hope Mercedes plans to keep selling vehicles like this car.”