MERCEDES-Benz has unveiled the UK prices and specification for its B-Class multi-activity vehicle, deliveries of which will start on September 15.

Starting at £16,995 on the road, the prices have significantly undercut the proposed pricing announced earlier in the year.

Five-speed manual transmission is standard on B 150, B 170 and B 200 models, with six-speeds featuring on the B 180 CDI, B 200 CDI and B 200 Turbo.

Autotronic continuously variable automatic transmission is available for £1,390 on every model.

Comfort and luxury forms an important part of the equipment that is standard on every car.

Air conditioning keeps the temperature constant throughout the spacious cabin, and its chilling capacity even extends to the glove box - perfect for keeping drinks and snacks cool in hot summer weather.

Luxury climate control, which gives separate temperature settings for the front seat occupants, is a £410 upgrade.

With up to 2,205 litres of interior volume, B-Class packs a lot of practicality into its attractive compact dimensions.

Numerous storage solutions feature on the car, including rear seats that are split one-third, two-thirds with removable cushions. The luggage compartment floor is on two levels, under which the rear seat base can be stowed.

On all but those equipped with sports seats, the front passenger seat can fold forwards to allow loads of up to 2.54m to be safely stowed - ideal for ladders, Christmas trees, surf boards, flat pack furniture or other long items.

The Mercedes-Benz Audio 20 CD/radio system can be controlled from the multi-function steering wheel, which also gives information on the trip computer, outside temperature, tyre pressure loss and a range of other features.

Satellite navigation is available in two guises, both of which can direct drivers across Europe.

Those in the back get plenty of leg, hip and shoulder room, retractable head restraints, three-point belts all round, ISOFIX mounting and top tethers for child seats.

Suitable Mercedes-Benz child seats up front will deactivate the passenger airbags - a real boon for safety.

ASR traction control, ABS anti-lock brakes with brake assist all keep things on the straight and narrow.

Insurance groups start at 7E for the B 150, and B-Class running costs look set to be low, too.