New Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs Audi A3 Sportback vs BMW 1 Series
Mercedes’ new A-Class promises to dazzle you with luxury as it renews its battle with the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series at the top end of the family car class...
Our verdict
It was obvious during testing that the 1 Series was trailing behind, even in areas where you might expect it to do well, such as handling. It has always struggled to match the practicality of its key rivals, too. The only good reasons for buying one are its top-notch infotainment system and relatively affordable PCP payments.
The others both make compelling cases for themselves. The A-Class’s interior alone will sell it to many, yet its comfortable ride, tidy handling and practicality give it real substance too. However, the A3 is competitive in all these areas while also being better built, even more of a delight to drive and cheaper to buy, as well as having a more practical boot and more user-friendly infotainment.
As a result, the A3 hangs onto its crown. Apart from a shortage of standard safety aids, it remains difficult to fault.
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1st – Audi A3 Sportback
For Incisive handling; well-controlled ride; fine driving position; outstanding finish; intuitive infotainment
Against Important safety kit not standard; not very well equipped
Recommended options Technology Pack (£1395), Audi Pre-sense Basic (£200)
Rated 4 out of 5
Read our full Audi A3 Sportback review
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2nd – Mercedes-Benz A-Class
For Supple ride; feature-laden infotainment; dazzling interior; strong resale values; safety kit
Against Priciest to buy on PCP finance; restrictive and expensive options packs
Recommended options Executive Line Pack (£1395)
Rated 4 out of 5
Read our full Mercedes-Benz A-Class review
Find a great Mercedes-Benz A-Class deal
3rd – BMW 1 Series
For Top-notch infotainment system; strong reliability record; cheapest on a PCP
Against Lacklustre performance; least comfortable ride; unremarkable handling; tight rear space; least refined
Recommended options Driving Assistant Pack (£390)
Rated 3 out of 5
Read our full BMW 1 Series review
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Specifications: Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI 115 S line
Engine size 4cyl, 1598cc, diesel
List price £27,385
Target Price £25,329
Power 114bhp @ 3250-4000rpm
Torque 184Ib ft @ 1500-3200rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 10.2sec
Top speed 125mph
Gov't fuel economy 67.3mpg
CO2 emissions 109g/km
Specifications: BMW 1 Series 116d M Sport 5dr
Engine size 3cyl, 1496cc, diesel
List price £26,675
Target Price £24,556
Power 114bhp @ 4000rpm
Torque 199Ib ft @ 1750-2250rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 10.7sec
Top speed 124mph
Gov't fuel economy 65.7mpg
CO2 emissions 114g/km
Specifications: Mercedes-Benz A-Class A180d AMG Line auto
Engine size 4cyl, 1461cc, diesel
List price £28,540
Target Price £26,676
Power 114bhp @ 4000rpm
Torque 192Ib ft @ 1750-2500rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 10.4sec
Top speed 125mph
Gov't fuel economy 68.9mpg
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