Mercedes B 200 CDI

This is a new one for me, a "B-Class" with a 2.0 diesel. NZ MB Site here (check out flash site, dimensions, roof systems.) Review here.
Priced (locally) about 10% higher than a VW Mk5 Golf 2.0 PD w/ DSG, but less than a BMW 3-series.
Available with a manual or CVT.

Is it just me or is MB now into producing asthmatic gassers? Max HP at 5000 RPM for the B200 Turbo? Not that I am one to complain at all; I think it's great that peak power is at such an accessible RPM, but this is one of the very reasons some people disdain Diesels: The perception of running out of breath at relatively low revs...

Yeah, the wide torque spread is low and wide (1800 - 4850). But it is a family car if I underdstand the sales pitch.

Just looking at the GTI's 2.0 FSI, it has very similar numbers, 200 PS at 5100. 280 Nm starts at 1800 and goes to just under 5100 (by my calc.)