For The cabin is versatile, roomy and well built; affordable running costs and plenty of safety kit.
Against Ride and handling fall short of the best; not great value for money, particularly on the top-spec cars, which are over-priced.
The A-Class scores well for space, safety and image, but it's not as much fun to drive as some rivals.
Mercedes' A-Class may not feel as radical as it did when the original version was launched back in 1998, but it's settled into being a classy small family car.
The cleverness has not deserted the A-Class, however, and it packs in as much cabin space as most cars in its sector despite being shorter and easier to park. The tall roof helps with head space, while the flat floor and broad width provide plenty of luggage space in the generous boot.
There's a wide range of engines to choose from and there's also the option of an automatic gearbox with every engine. Trim levels are generous with their equipment.
In general, the A-Class is quiet and hushed at all speeds, but the ride and handling fall some way short of the best in this class due to the firmness of the suspension. We're also not fans of the very light steering feel.
Previous car: VW Polo 1.4SE. Have owned this…
A practical small car with tardis like dimensions.…
I had an A160 Classic Blue Eff for 4 weeks as a…
We have had this car for well over 3 years now and…