Name: Mercedes-Benz A-class Review
Item: Mercedes-Benz A-class
Author: Gumtree.com

First making entryway as a miniature-MPV over 20 years ago in the UK, the Mercedes A-Class ‘baby Benz’ was a clever design achievement in the small cars segment. With a legacy of four generations, the car has come a long way since. Later models have been getting sleeker looks, better performance and more killer tech. These changes set up the car much more closely to its rivals in the busy luxury small-car segment – the BMW 1 Series and the Audi A3. Now available in saloon and hatchback variants along with a variety of trims, the A-Class is a creature-comfort car that brings the panache of the three-pointed star at a practicable price point.

Explore the Mercedes-Benz A-Class model page to learn more

What we think about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Packing premium feels and sporty driving in a nifty little package, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a reliable purchase for the pockmarked town roads or the smooth-sailing highways.

Pros

Advanced interiors

Agile handling

Wide engine range

Looks are spot-on

Cons

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Gearbox seems slow

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Slightly choppy at low speeds

The latest 2018 generation broke away from the hallmark hatchback style with the release of a saloon variant. The SE is the entry-level trim, while the Sport gets the larger alloy wheels and LED lights. For the thrill-seekers, the A-Class AMG line kicks it up a few notches. As for engines, there are over eight variants on the menu.

Driving performance of the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

Unlike its rivals, the A-Class focuses on comfort over sport. It’s no surprise that the biggest highlight is its sturdy suspension that has no problem with speed bumps and rougher roads. If you’re all about superior drive-feel, the special AMG trims are certainly for you, but their higher-performance specs aren’t necessary for everyday use. While the lower-trim A-Class models start off choppy, they get comfortable enough on the open road. The lower trim engines can also complain a little when pushed, but the car handles well overall and feels at home in urban spaces. Bear in mind that these less expensive versions only come in manual, while the pricier A-Class variants have an automatic transmission as standard.

Safety and reliability of the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

As with any other Mercedes, the A-Class has a top-notch reputation when it comes to safety and reliability. This is backed up by a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating for the 2018 A-Class (and many previous iterations). Even a decade-old model will rarely have any major mechanical snags. In terms of safety features, the 2013 generation onwards comes with a collision-avoidance system that warns drivers of an imminent accident and preps the brakes. An optional driver-assistant kit is made available that has more advanced features like blind-spot warning and voice-activated controls. Regular wear and tear usually occur with the brake pads, especially with city driving, but it’s nothing that scheduled servicing can’t take care of.

Under the bonnet of the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

From the 2008 generation onwards, the A-Class starts with a base-level 1.6-litre engine and moves onto a turbocharged 2.0L engine, which performs considerably better in terms of drive-feel and power. A-Class buyers in the UK generally seem to have a preference for the diesel variants over petrol, but there’s little to separate the two when it comes to performance. The power-producing AMG scorches from 0-60 mph within just 4.1 seconds on the latest generation. If you’re looking for a fine balance of pace and price, the best bets are the 7-speed automatic A250 versions.

What you'll find in the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Mercedes moved on from the more MVP-style high roof and driving position with the third generation. The base got a little wider and naturally the looks started to come together much better. On the latest variants, the car is more chiselled and the angular looks stand distinctly away from the ‘baby Benz’ appeal of the previous generations. The Sport trims are worth a look just because of the larger alloys that significantly amp up the style quotient.

Comfort and interiors in the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

Interior detailing is impeccable on the A-Class. The seats are well-bolstered and driver comfort is taken care of with a variety of adjustment options. Despite being the smaller model in the Mercedes line-up, it has plenty of space to function as a family car or for road-trips with mates. This is especially true for the latest generation, where the bigger wheel-base makes way for more legroom. What stands out the most with the A-Class is how quiet it is on the inside, with just the occasional touch of wind noise at higher speeds.

Red Mercedes-Benz A-Class interior dashboard

What features you'll find in the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Features Rating8 / 10

From the 2013 generation onwards, the Mercedes-Benz has been class-leading with the beautifully placed screen and the digital control system up-front and centre. An optional augmented reality satellite navigation really puts it ahead of the competition in terms of high-tech gadgetry. Six-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, comfort suspension, leather seats, cruise control and a reversing camera are standard across all models from the third generation onwards. Top-line trims in the AMG segment get an upgraded sound system and a bigger infotainment suite.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

In terms of fuel efficiency, the A-Class is slightly lacking, especially in the third generation and previous iterations. If an economical runaround is what you’re after, the CDI versions perform best. The less expensive trims and the A250e hybrid variant have the lowest emissions, qualifying for Benefit in Kind tax for company cars. The latest generation sees improved fuel efficiency, thanks in part to an aerodynamic redesign – something to keep in mind if you’re looking for improved mpg.

Running costs of the Mercedes Benz A Class

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

The great build quality across all components on the A-Class means that it’s a reliable machine that won’t break the bank in the long run. While the A-Class does fall in the luxury segment, Mercedes’ solid reputation for reliability and dependability can lower the insurance premiums, which helps to keep costs down. In terms of the up-front cost, the suite of optional extras comes into play here, as a healthy selection of non-standard features can lead to a high price tag.

Our verdict of the Mercedes Benz A Class

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

The prestige that is associated with the three-pointed star on the bonnet is certainly undeniable, and the A-Class ticks all the boxes for your very first Mercedes.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class review