The new B- and M-Class Mercedes-Benz are due to arrive in Ireland next year and the German carmaker has just announced that, in addition to increased levels of specification, the new models will be up to 15 per cent cheaper than the cars they replace.
The B-Class 'Compact Sports Tourer' (or hatchback as we know it) will be the first to enter the Irish market with a debut date in January. Prices will start from €28,850 for the entry-level B 180 CDI BlueEfficiency. With annual road tax of €104 this is expected to be the biggest seller of the range and will be followed in February by the €29,400 petrol-powered B 180 BlueEfficiency version. These prices represent an eleven per cent reduction over the previous generation car.
The first M-Class SUV to enter the market will be the M 250 CDI BlueTec complete with a tax rate of €447 per annum. The €69,900 price tag is some fifteen per cent lower than the previous entry-level diesel. The M 250 will be joined later in the year by the M 350 CDI BlueTec carrying a €74,900 price tag and road tax of €630.
Commenting on the announcement sales manager Ciaran Allen said that Mercedes-Benz's continuing commitment to lower prices underlines their determination to maintain a competitive position in the face of difficult economic conditions in Ireland.