Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Mercedes A-Class - the premium hatch to beat?

"Hi-tech, well built, stylish and as comfortable and luxurious as it should be: the Mercedes A-Class is a great premium hatchback"

Carbuyer Rating

4.0 out of 5

Owners Rating

3.7 out of 5

Read owner reviews
Price
£33,980 - £46,590

Pros

  • Great build quality
  • Class-leading interior
  • Impressive infotainment

Cons

  • Underpowered entry-level petrol engine
  • Not as sporty as some rivals
  • Cramped rear seats

Verdict – is the Mercedes A-Class a good car?

The Mercedes A-Class is a great car for buyers after a premium experience with all the benefits of a small, practical hatchback. One of its biggest draws is its impressive build quality and interior technology, which cement it as one of the most desirable cars in its class. With the focus on comfort, it’s not quite as sporty as some rivals – the smallest entry-level engine feels rather underpowered, but the Mercedes A-Class is worth considering if you’re in the market for an upmarket small car, with the A 200 being the sweet spot for most buyers.

Mercedes A Class models, specs and alternatives

The Mercedes A-Class started the compact premium car class when it was first introduced. It’s now a very different car to when it arrived in the late 90s – originally a slightly more upright, MPV-style model with polarising looks, the previous and latest Mercedes A-Class models adopted a more conventional and attractive look as a stylish hatchback, making it a smash hit.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Facelifted for 2023, the latest upgrades could be a final flourish for the A-Class, as Mercedes looks to move its model range further upmarket, with no direct replacement in sight. Its most recent changes include standard adaptive headlights and LED tail-lights, a smoother nose and an upgraded interior that also uses more recycled materials to boost its sustainability.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

The A-Class' interior is miles ahead of most rivals. It's packed with sophisticated technology and boasts a modern design along with high-quality materials and great build quality, and the A-Class has led the family hatchback segment for some time now. The car's infotainment system is particularly impressive. Voice recognition together with a large digital dial cluster and infotainment screen set-up help amplify the hi-tech experience, and twin 10.25-inch displays were made standard in 2023.

BMW 118 M SportTop 10 best luxury small cars

The A-Class seems to have set the template for modern interior design, with a number of cars such as the BMW 1 Series – and even the Vauxhall Astra – now featuring two similarly sized screens side-by-side.

There are now two core trim levels to choose from: Sport Executive or AMG Line Executive. The base SE has now been withdrawn, while Exclusive Edition was briefly available as a standalone version. You can then add 'Premium' or ‘Premium Plus’ packs to the AMG Line trim level, which adds extra equipment like automatic dual-zone climate control, a 10-speaker sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The standard A-Class engine range comprises two petrol options, a diesel and a plug-in hybrid. The petrol engines offer between 134bhp and 161bhp and are badged A 180 and A 200 – there are two additional high-performance Mercedes-AMG ‘hot-hatch’ versions of the A-Class with bigger engines which we’ve reviewed separately – these are called the A35 with 302bhp and the A45 S with 415bhp.  

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

A 2.0-litre diesel engine with 148bhp is available in the A 200 d but the previously-offered A 180 d and A 220 d have been discontinued. The plug-in hybrid A 250 e has also been carried over for the facelift, and should be available to order during 2023. Buyers after a fully electric car will be keen on the Mercedes EQA – essentially an electric version of the Mercedes GLA, which is based on the A-Class.

The A-Class is now available only with an automatic DCT gearbox, with a seven-speed unit for the standard petrol-engined variants, and an eight-speed for the diesel A 200 d. 

With its 161bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine, the A 200 offers a good mix of performance and fuel economy, and we’d recommend it over the less-powerful A 180 model. Unlike some of its sportier rivals, the A-Class has been developed with comfort as a priority – while this is clear in the way it drives, it’s also not the best in this respect, with some competitors offering better levels of comfort. The steering is well-weighted but doesn’t give much feedback and while there’s not much body roll, the car isn't as grippy as you’d hope. The suspension is pliant and its ride is smooth; the A-Class is at home on the motorway, feeling as quiet and comfortable as you’d expect a Mercedes to be.

The petrol A 180 and A 200 manage around 48mpg, which isn’t bad by any means, but the A 200 d diesel manages up to 57.7mpg. The latter will likely suit those tackling longer motorway miles.

Advertisement - Article continues below
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

The A 250 e plug-in hybrid is a good option for both private and business drivers. It was the first A-Class Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and shared the same turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine as the A 200 but linked to an electric motor and a 16kWh battery pack, increasing power to a considerable 215bhp. Claimed pure-electric driving range is up to 51 miles, up from 44 in the pre-facelifted model with a slightly smaller battery. As with any plug-in hybrid, this entirely depends on the type of driving you do and how often you recharge the battery.

On the practicality front, the A-Class is something of a mixed bag – it’s spacious and comfortable in the front, but less so in the rear, and offers a 350-litre boot that’s a little bit smaller than rivals. Split-folding seats allow the total load area to be expanded to almost 1,200 litres when needed.

If you value comfort and luxury over outright practicality and sportiness, the new Mercedes A-Class is a great choice. Its class-leading interior and technology make it a desirable prospect, while its hushed interior and smooth gearbox make it a joy to travel in – even if it isn't the smoothest premium hatchback you can buy. It’s worth noting though that the least powerful petrol engine lacks punch; others offer a better balance of power and economy.

Advertisement - Article continues below
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

For a more detailed look at the Mercedes A-Class, read on for the rest of our in-depth review.

What about buying a used or nearly new Mercedes A-Class?

The latest Mercedes A-Class has quite variable residual values, from around 44 to 52 per cent of its new value after three years or 36,000 miles, which means some models are quite good value as a used car and others are less so. Go for a less desirable diesel model to get the most for your money; although some higher-powered petrol models such as the A250 are also a good used buy if you don’t mind the higher running costs.

What’s its history?

The first Mercedes A-Class launched in 1998 and it was something rather different from anything else on the market. Its upright styling and small footprint on the road meant it was more practical than it looked, and Mercedes spent so much on this innovative car that it actually lost the company money for each model sold.

In 2001 this version was updated, then it was replaced with an all-new generation in 2004, though this Mk2 model still had the upright design that set it apart from rivals from Audi and BMW.

In 2012 the much more conventional Mk3 A-Class arrived, and it was then updated in 2015 with some new equipment. In 2018 the current Mk4 version arrived.

Used Mercedes A-Class (Mk3 2012-2018)

Mercedes A-Class Mk3 (2012-2018)

The previous-generation A-Class still looks modern today, and although it’s more cramped and more uncomfortable than the current Mk4 car, it’s still a decent buy simply because prices are more affordable. It’s decent enough to drive, well equipped, the interior is pleasant and best of all, the engines are really efficient and cheap to run.

Read the full Mercedes A-Class Mk3 review...

Used Mercedes A-Class (Mk2 2004-2012)

Mercedes A-Class Mk2 (2005-2012)

The second-generation A-Class was practical for its small size, had really low running costs and it was easy to drive. Its interesting styling is another reason to consider one (it looks like little else that was available at the time) but it’s neither the most comfortable nor quiet car, especially on the motorway.

Read the full Mercedes A-Class Mk2 review...

Older Mercedes A-Class models

The first-generation Mercedes A-Class is worth considering as a used car if you love older cars that were innovative when they first came out. It was a revolutionary car for Mercedes and paved the way for more mainstream models in the brand’s range. It’s easy to drive and there are some versions that will do over 60mpg.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Andy is Carbuyer's managing editor, with more than a decade of experience helping consumers find their perfect car. He has an MA in automotive journalism and has tested hundreds of vehicles.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Toyota C-HR review - stylish and efficient, but lacks rear space
Toyota C-HR UK front dynamic
In-depth reviews
18 Mar 2024

Toyota C-HR review - stylish and efficient, but lacks rear space

Volkswagen T-Cross review – a well-equipped small SUV
Volkswagen T-Cross 2024
In-depth reviews
18 Mar 2024

Volkswagen T-Cross review – a well-equipped small SUV

SEAT Ateca review - good value SUV that's fun to drive
SEAT Ateca SUV front 3/4 tracking
In-depth reviews
14 Mar 2024

SEAT Ateca review - good value SUV that's fun to drive

Porsche Panamera review – a tech-packed sports saloon
2024 Porsche Panamera front quarter dynamic
In-depth reviews
13 Mar 2024

Porsche Panamera review – a tech-packed sports saloon

Most Popular

Hot car deal: stylish Peugeot 2008 small SUV for £120 a month
Peugeot 2008 front quarter
Deals
12 Mar 2024

Hot car deal: stylish Peugeot 2008 small SUV for £120 a month

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers
Carbuyer best new car deals hero
Deals
15 Mar 2024

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers

Skoda Superb Estate review – a near-faultless, practical family car
Skoda Superb Estate Carbuyer drive
In-depth reviews
15 Mar 2024

Skoda Superb Estate review – a near-faultless, practical family car

More on A-Class

Top 10 best small company cars 2024
Best small company cars
Best cars
23 Feb 2024

Top 10 best small company cars 2024

Are you after a small company car with equally compact Benefit-in-Kind bills? These 10 cars should be on your shortlist
Top 10 best small hybrid cars 2024
The best small hybrid cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best small hybrid cars 2024

If you're after an economical car that doesn't take up much space and doesn't have a diesel engine, you'll want to read our guide to the best small hy…
The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024

While hatchbacks might normally be used for trips to the shops, the hot hatch power war has resulted in the fastest models being quicker than most spo…
Skip advert
Advertisement
Top 10 best hot hatchbacks 2024
Best hot hatchbacks
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best hot hatchbacks 2024

A hot hatch should combine driving thrills with everyday usability at a reasonable price – we round up the best
London ULEZ: what is the Ultra Low Emission Zone?
ULEZ Zone
Tips and advice
21 Aug 2023

London ULEZ: what is the Ultra Low Emission Zone?

The London ULEZ will expand on 29 August 2023 to cover all of the city’s boroughs. Our guide explains what it means for drivers in London
Mercedes-AMG A 45 hatchback
Mercedes-AMG A 45 S
In-depth reviews
3 Aug 2023

Mercedes-AMG A 45 hatchback

"Incredible power sets the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S apart but its price tag is almost as breathtaking"
Mercedes A-Class saloon review
Mercedes A-Class saloon driving
In-depth reviews
14 Jun 2023

Mercedes A-Class saloon review

"The Mercedes A-Class saloon is full of the latest technology, but with a more conservative and slippery shape than the hatchback"
Mercedes A 250 e hatchback review
Best Plug-in Hybrid: Mercedes A 250 e
In-depth reviews
9 May 2023

Mercedes A 250 e hatchback review

"The Mercedes A 250 e is one of the most stylish and compelling plug-in hybrids yet"
Skip advert
Advertisement
Top 10 best luxury small cars
BMW 118 M Sport
Best cars
8 Nov 2022

Top 10 best luxury small cars

The best luxury small cars are affordable and yet offer the kind of quality, comfort and equipment that used to only be found on large executive cars
Skip advert
Advertisement
Facelifted Mercedes A-Class mild-hybrid starts from £31,880
2023 Mercedes A-Class - front
News
27 Oct 2022

Facelifted Mercedes A-Class mild-hybrid starts from £31,880

Mercedes has facelifted its entry-level family hatchback with a tweaked design and mild-hybrid powertrains
Top 10 best used hatchbacks
2014 Skoda Octavia in blue driving around a corner
Best cars
1 Jul 2022

Top 10 best used hatchbacks

Cars like these are easy to park, spacious, well-equipped and cheap to run. We pick out the best used hatchbacks
Top 10 best used hot hatchbacks
Ford Fiesta ST
Best cars
29 Jun 2022

Top 10 best used hot hatchbacks

If you need practicality and enjoy driving, hot hatches offer a great solution. Here are our top 10 best used hot hatchbacks
Mercedes A-Class AMG Line review
Mercedes A-Class AMG Line - front 3/4 driving
Car trim reviews
25 Jan 2022

Mercedes A-Class AMG Line review

The Mercedes A-Class AMG Line hatchback offers sporting looks, premium technology and a wide array of engine options
Used Mercedes A-Class review: 2012 to 2018 (Mk3)
Mercedes A-Class Mk3 (2012-2018)
Used car reviews
11 Jan 2022

Used Mercedes A-Class review: 2012 to 2018 (Mk3)

“The Mercedes A-Class is a smart, classy family hatchback with an excellent interior and low running costs"
Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG-Line: Deal of the Week
CB DotW - A250 O/S front
Partnership
11 May 2021

Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG-Line: Deal of the Week

Our latest deal of the week is for the Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG-Line, brought to you by our sister site BuyaCar
Skip advert
Advertisement
Special edition cars: the best, worst and weirdest
News
15 Dec 2020

Special edition cars: the best, worst and weirdest

Take a look at the best and most memorable special edition cars
2020 Mercedes A-Class Exclusive Edition models launched
2020 Mercedes A-Class Exclusive Edition and Exclusive Edition Plus - front 3/4 static
News
27 Oct 2020

2020 Mercedes A-Class Exclusive Edition models launched

Plush new A-Class Exclusive Edition and Exclusive Edition Plus models start at £31,305 and £37,320 respectively
Skip advert
Advertisement
New Audi A3 40 TFSI e plug-in hybrid joins range
2020 Audi A3 Sportback - front 3/4 dynamic
News
30 Sep 2020

New Audi A3 40 TFSI e plug-in hybrid joins range

Audi A3 Sportback PHEV offers 41 miles of electric range; prices start from £33,060
Mercedes A 250 e and B 250 e plug-in hybrids now on sale
Mercedes A250e and B250e plug-in hybrids
News
10 Jun 2020

Mercedes A 250 e and B 250 e plug-in hybrids now on sale

Mercedes B-Class plug-in hybrid joins A-Class PHEV; 42 miles of range promised
A3 vs Golf vs 1 Series vs A-Class vs Focus
Tips and advice
23 Mar 2020

A3 vs Golf vs 1 Series vs A-Class vs Focus

The Audi A3, VW Golf, BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class and Ford Focus all have plenty to offer, but each provides a unique take on the class
Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon
In-depth reviews
6 Jan 2020

Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon

"The Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon is fast, luxurious and reasonably practical, but the price can easily soar"
Skip advert
Advertisement
New Volkswagen Golf vs BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class: specs
News
29 Oct 2019

New Volkswagen Golf vs BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class: specs

How does the new Mk8 Volkswagen Golf compare to the premium hatchback class-leaders?
What is Mercedes 4MATIC?
While the E-Class Coupe is rear-wheel-drive as standard, 4MATIC four-wheel-drive is also be available
Tips and advice
10 Oct 2019

What is Mercedes 4MATIC?

Everything you need to know about the Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
19 Dec 2023

Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide
Public EV charge point
Tips and advice
11 Jan 2023

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
12 Apr 2023

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

Top 10 best electric cars 2024
The best electric cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024
The best cheap-to-run cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024