Mercedes A-Class A35 4Matic Premium Plus 5dr Auto Review
Category: Family car
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewClassy, comfortable, good to drive, safe and packed with technology, the Mercedes A-Class stands among the best premium-badged options in the family car class. A lot of the engines work well in different ways: the entry-level diesel (A180d) if you want great fuel economy; the hot-hatch-quick A250 petrol if speed is your bag; the A250e plug-in hybrid if it's super-cheap company car tax you're after. But for its overall pace, efficiency and cost, the A200 is our pick of the bunch. So-so reliability is the A-Class's Achilles heel, though, and one of the reasons we rank the Audi A3 above it.
The trim
See full equipmentThe A35 is a lot pricier than our favourite hot hatch, the Civic Type R, but you do get a reasonable roster of luxuries as standard. Leather seats (heated in the front), climate control, privacy glass and keyless start are all included. However, by the time you’ve added metallic paint and one of the equipment packs, you'll be paying a five-figure sum that starts with a four. We’d stick with the Premium Pack so you get bigger 10.3in screens, keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors and an upgraded stereo.
The engine
See full engine specsThe A35 comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol that kicks out 302bhp and 295Ib ft of torque. With 0-62mph coming up in 4.7sec, it’s fast if you're prepared to rev it hard. We just wish it sounded a bit more tuneful.
