Mercedes-Benz A-Class Review

Mercedes Benz A-Class Review

Seven years after the launch of the original A-Class in 1998 Mercedes-Benz have introduced the new model which returns bristling with new technology, newly developed transmissions, a wide range of petrol and diesel Euro 4 engines and a choice of 3-door and 5-door body styles.

The original A-Class was a ground breaking package and after seven years in production, Mercedes sold over 1.1-million of the baby Mercedes model (over 88,000 in the UK).

We purchased an A160 Elegance in September 1999 - we decided on the A-Class because we required a small car with flexible seating and luggage carrying capabilities - plus it had a high level of standard safety equipment unlike other vehicles within its price bracket. For instance it had anti-lock brakes (ABS), four airbags and electronic stability (ESP) with Traction Control. At that time we believe the only other vehicle fitted with ESP as standard was the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Yes, there was the issue with stability (the 'infamoose' - excuse the pun elk test avoidance manoeuvre) which Mercedes handled well with the speedy introduction of a package of safety and stability equipment - although some say this affected ride quality.

The all-new A-Class is available with a choice of six engines (3 petrol and 3 diesel) and in Classic, Classic SE, Elegance SE and Avantgarde SE trim levels. Prices range from £13,655 for the A150 Classic 3-Door model to £20,190 for the A200 CDI (EU4) Avantgarde SE 5-Door.

Transmissions range from 5 and 6-speed manual gearboxes to the AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic (£1,160 option).

Since the launch of the original A-Class other manufacturers have jumped onto the lucrative mini-MPV bandwagon with models such as the Audi A2, FIAT Idea, Ford Focus C-MAX, Renault Scenic, Vauxhall Meriva and Volkswagen Golf Plus. We tested the A150 Classic SE, to see how the new A-Class fares within this fiercely competitive segment.

Mercedes Benz A-Class